Transferring Utilities When Moving States

Utility Transfer Process: Step-by-Step

Follow these steps to manage your utility transfers effectively:

1. Identify Your Utilities & Providers (Old & New):
   • Make a list of all utilities you currently pay for: Electricity, Natural Gas, Water/Sewer, Trash/Recycling, Internet, Cable/Satellite TV, Landline Phone, Home Security.
   • Note the provider name, your account number, and customer service contact info for each.
   • Research the providers for these services at your new address. Your realtor, landlord (if renting), or the new city/county website are good resources. Note that for basic utilities like electricity, gas, and water, you often have only one provider option dictated by location. For internet/cable, you might have choices.
2. Contact Current Providers (Schedule Stop Service):
   • Call your current utility providers at least 2-4 weeks before your move-out date. Inform them you are moving and need to schedule a service stop date.
   • Ideal Stop Date: Schedule the service stop for the day *after* you completely move out to avoid being without power or water during the final clean-up or loading.
   • Provide your forwarding address (your new address) for the final bill.
   • Ask about any final meter readings needed, outstanding balances, potential deposit refunds, and procedures for returning equipment (like internet modems/routers, cable boxes).
3. Contact New Providers (Schedule Start Service):
   • Contact the utility providers at your new address at least 2-4 weeks before your move-in date (even earlier for internet/cable if installation is needed, especially during peak moving season - summer).
   • Request to start service in your name.
   • Ideal Start Date: Schedule service activation for the day *before* or the morning of your move-in date to ensure lights, water, and heat/AC are working when you arrive.
   • Information Needed: Be prepared to provide your full name, new service address, desired start date, contact information (phone/email), possibly your Social Security Number (SSN) for a credit check, or be prepared to pay a security deposit if you lack established credit or an SSN. Proof of identity (like driver's license) and proof of residency (lease/purchase agreement) might also be required, especially for water/sewer setup through the city/county.
   • Deposits/Fees: Ask about any required security deposits (common for new customers without established credit), activation fees, or connection charges. Budget for these potential costs.
4. Schedule Installation Appointments (If Needed):
   • Services like internet, cable/satellite TV, and sometimes home security often require a technician visit for installation or equipment setup. Schedule these appointments as far in advance as possible to get a date/time that works with your move-in schedule.
5. Check HOA Coverage (If Applicable):
   • If moving into a community with a Homeowners Association (HOA), check your HOA documents or ask the association manager if any utilities (like water, sewer, trash collection) are included in your HOA fees. This can simplify your setup.
6. Confirm Everything (A Few Days Before Move):
   • Call both your old and new providers a few days before moving out/in to confirm the stop and start dates are correctly scheduled. Verify any installation appointments.
7. Final Meter Readings & Bill Settlement:
   • If possible, take photos of your meters at the old property after moving out, noting the final readings.
   • Settle your final bills with your old providers promptly. Ensure any security deposits are refunded or credited.
8. Verify Activation at New Home:
   • On move-in day, immediately check that electricity, water, and gas (if applicable) are working. Test internet/phone connections once scheduled activation/installation is complete. Contact providers immediately if anything isn't working.