A move to a new home brings excitement and probably a little anxiety. With all of the details associated with a residential move, things can get overwhelming.
Setting up the utility services for your new home is an essential step and one you want to make sure that you get right. Where should you start?
Getting acquainted with the various utility services available will help you determine what you need in your new home.
Read on for some essential background information on utility services.
Understanding Various Utilities
The initial step in setting up utilities is understanding what they are and what’s available. It depends on where you live, but generally, there are two categories of utility services:
Public Utilities
- Gas
- Electricity
- Water/sewer
- Waste Disposal
Private Utilities
- Internet
- Cable
- Phone
- Security Services
The utility services you need will depend on your family’s lifestyle, and what’s already included as part of your living arrangements. For instance, if you live in a townhome, condo, or similar setting, some utilities might be predetermined or included in your association fees.
Various states offer energy provider options or “energy choice.” Research your area to find out if you have the energy choice option in your state and determine which best fits your needs.
Reach out to your real estate agent or homeowners association to give you some guidance. Often realtors have lists of service providers in the area that they can share with you to know who to contact for set-up.
Setting Up Utilities
When you’ve selected providers, schedule a set-up or start date. Certain utilities require a technician appointment where the technician comes on-site to activate or install equipment.
Generally, companies need several days’ notice to send a technician. So plan, and schedule your set-up well in advance, even if your start date is weeks away.
Services such as garbage collection don’t need installation, but you still need to contact those providers to schedule a start date.
To schedule your set-up, you can often logon to a utility provider’s website. Usually, you will fill out an application, select a start date, and schedule a set-up.
Contact your provider by phone if they don’t provide online set-up and activation services.
Make a Note of It
With the packing and moving chaos, it’s easy to forget the details. Be sure to make a note of when you scheduled the set-up and activation of your utility services. Also, save the contact information in case you need to reach out to those providers again. You will want to have everything in one place come move-in day and when it’s time to pay the bill.
Settling Into Your Home
Establishing and setting up your utilities may seem like a complicated process, but it’s not as daunting as it may seem. Spending a bit of time understanding the topic will make the moving process easier.
Check out other ways to make your move-in a success. Then contact us to schedule your free quote. Let us help you with your move.