Moving to a new home comes with a long to-do list. One important step is turning off the utilities at your old house and setting them up at your new one. This process may feel overwhelming, especially if you wait until the last minute. Plan ahead and set up utilities at your new house the right way.

Make a List to Set Up Utilities

Which utilities will you need at your new home? Everyone needs power, water, and waste removal. Internet and cable are not necessary, but most people choose to have these services. Natural gas is used in some homes. Additional utilities may include a home telephone line and a monitored security system. Make a list of all the utilities you need to set up and take care of them in one afternoon.

When Should You Notify Utility Providers?

Figure out which companies will be providing your utilities at your new home. If you are not moving far, your providers may not change. If you are moving to a new city, you’ll need to research utility providers. The municipal website is a good place to start.

Contact the utility providers that require installation, like cable and internet, a month in advance of moving. This gives them time to schedule an appointment. Other utilities that can be switched on, like power, just need a 2-week notice. Many will require a deposit to start an account, so prepare for this in your budget.

Provide ID Documents to Set Up Utilities

To set up a new account with a utility company, you will likely need to provide some identification. When you are researching different providers, find out what kind of documentation they require to set up your account. Get your documents together and organized in advance so that you aren’t scrambling at the last minute.

Take Care of Old Accounts

Almost as important as setting up utilities at your new residence is closing the accounts for your old one. You don’t want to be paying for someone else’s utilities after you’ve moved. Communicate with your current providers about what day to shut off service and be sure to pay your final bill. If they don’t have the bill ready yet, give them your new address so they can forward it your way.

Florida Superior Inspections provides home inspection services to Southwest Florida. Contact us to book an appointment in and around Tampa.