Moving to a new home comes with a long to-do list, and setting up utilities is a crucial part of the process. This comprehensive guide will walk you through exactly when to contact each utility provider before and after your move to ensure a smooth transition.

Two Weeks Before Moving: Plan and Research

Two weeks before your move is the ideal time to start planning your utility transitions. Here's what you should do during this period:

1. Create a List of All Your Utilities

Start by making a comprehensive list of all the utilities and services you currently have and will need at your new home:

  • Electricity
  • Natural gas
  • Water and sewer
  • Internet service
  • Cable or satellite TV
  • Home phone service (if applicable)
  • Waste and recycling collection
  • Home security system

2. Research Available Providers at Your New Address

Some utilities like electricity and water may have only one provider option in your new area, while others like internet and TV will have multiple companies to choose from. Research:

  • Which providers service your new address
  • Plan options and pricing
  • Any new customer promotions or deals
  • Installation lead times (especially important for internet service)

Pro Tip

This research phase is where FreeConcierge.net can save you hours of time. Our utility experts already know which providers service every area and can present you with the best options and exclusive deals with one simple call or form submission.

One Week Before Moving: Start Making Arrangements

As your move date approaches, it's time to start contacting providers and making specific arrangements:

1. Schedule Service Disconnections at Your Current Home

Contact your current utility providers to:

  • Schedule service disconnection for your move-out date (or the day after to ensure you have utilities through your final day)
  • Request final bills to be sent to your new address or email
  • Return any equipment like modems or cable boxes
  • Settle any outstanding balances

2. Schedule Service Connections at Your New Home

Contact the utility providers for your new address to:

  • Set up new accounts
  • Schedule service activation for your move-in date
  • Arrange for any necessary installations or equipment deliveries
  • Understand deposit requirements and payment options

Priority Order for Setting Up Utilities

Not all utilities have the same lead time or importance. Here's the recommended order for scheduling:

  1. Internet service - Often requires professional installation and may have limited appointment availability
  2. Electricity - Essential from day one and sometimes requires an in-person visit
  3. Water - Usually managed by the local municipality and may take time to process
  4. Natural gas - May require a safety inspection
  5. Cable/Satellite TV - Can typically be scheduled alongside internet installation
  6. Waste collection - Often has weekly schedules you'll need to align with

Moving Day: Verify Disconnections and Connections

On the day of your move, take these important steps:

At Your Old Home:

  • Take final meter readings for electricity, gas, and water
  • Take photos of the readings as proof
  • Make sure all equipment that needs to be returned has been packaged
  • Turn off the main water valve before leaving

At Your New Home:

  • Check that essential utilities (electricity, water) are functioning
  • Take initial meter readings and photos
  • Locate the main water valve, electrical panel, and gas shutoff
  • Confirm any scheduled installations for the coming days

Important

Always have a backup plan for your first night. Keep a flashlight, phone charger, and bottled water easily accessible in case of any utility connection delays.

First Week After Moving: Follow Up and Finalize

During your first week in the new home:

1. Monitor All Utility Connections

  • Ensure all scheduled services have been properly connected
  • Test all outlets, fixtures, and connections
  • Set up autopay or payment reminders for new accounts

2. Return Equipment and Finalize Old Accounts

  • Return any equipment from previous providers
  • Get receipts for returned equipment
  • Verify final bills from previous providers for accuracy

3. Complete Change of Address Updates

  • Update your address with the postal service
  • Update billing addresses for credit cards and subscription services
  • Notify important contacts and organizations of your new address

Special Considerations for Different Living Situations

Renters

If you're renting, check with your landlord or property manager about:

  • Which utilities are included in your rent
  • Which utilities you're responsible for setting up
  • Any preferred or required providers
  • Any restrictions on installations or modifications

Homebuyers

New homeowners should also:

  • Transfer utilities from the seller's name to yours before closing if possible
  • Ask the seller for information about current providers and average costs
  • Consider home warranty options for utility systems and appliances

Your Complete Utility Transfer Timeline

  • 2 weeks before: Research providers and create your utility checklist
  • 1 week before: Schedule disconnections and new connections
  • 3-5 days before: Confirm all appointments and installation times
  • Moving day: Record meter readings at both properties
  • First week after: Verify all connections and finalize old accounts

How FreeConcierge.net Can Help

Setting up utilities for a move involves multiple phone calls, research, and coordination that can take hours of your valuable time. FreeConcierge.net simplifies this entire process:

  • One form or phone call to handle all your utility connections
  • Expert recommendations based on your specific needs and budget
  • Access to exclusive deals and promotions not available to the public
  • Coordination of all installation appointments to align with your schedule
  • Follow-up to ensure everything is properly connected

Best of all, our service is completely free to use! We're compensated by our utility partners, not by you.

Ready to Make Your Move Easier?

Let our experts handle your utility connections while you focus on other aspects of your move.

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Final Thoughts

Moving is consistently ranked as one of life's most stressful events, but proper planning for your utility transfers can eliminate a significant source of that stress. By following this checklist and timeline—or better yet, letting FreeConcierge.net handle it for you—you can ensure your new home is comfortable and fully functional from the moment you move in.

Have questions about utility setups or want to share your own moving experiences? Contact us or leave a comment below!