Moving involves much work, including packing and hauling your belongings. But, even though those tasks are labor-intensive and time-consuming, they are far from the only ones on your to-do list.
In addition to moving, you also need to set up your essential utilities. Follow these tips to make the process as seamless as possible.
Create a Utility List
When moving is chaotic, it’s easy to overlook tasks. For example, you don’t want to be without utilities for the first few days in your new home, which can delay everything from unpacking to settling in.
So when you start prepping your to-do list for your move, list all the utilities you’ll need to set up in your house. The following items may be on your list, depending on your new home:
- Water
- Electric
- Gas
- Recycling pick-up
- Trash pick-up
- Internet
- Cable or satellite TV service
The sooner you prepare that list, the better. By doing so in advance, you’ll avoid rushing at the last minute and missing utilities.
Plan Early
There is a misconception that setting up or transferring utility services only takes one phone call, but that’s not the case.
It’s not uncommon for utility companies to ask for various documents. However, tracking down the necessary documents can take considerable time.
You should also start planning to shut off your home’s utilities. Depending on the company, you may need to give them some notice. In addition, other companies might require you to schedule an appointment with a technician. So, give yourself enough time to end your service.
Ensure you keep your current utilities on for at least one to two days after your scheduled move. Then, if you need to return to make repairs or clean, you will have electricity, lights, and water. Or, if there are any unexpected moving delays, you will be covered. Similarly, if you have tasks to complete before the move, schedule the utilities at your new home to be turned on a day or two before you move in.
Check Out Your Options
Your new home might have different utility providers than your last home. Various requirements exist for other cities, neighborhoods, apartments, and management companies. You might also only get service from certain utilities in certain places. Depending on where you live, you may have the option of choosing your providers. Do your research before making a decision.
Your new home’s agent, property manager, or previous owner can tell you about the utility providers. You can also search for other options near your new house.
Contact every provider available to you for each utility and ask about their rates. Check out their customer reviews to see how they handle customer service. Another reliable source for researching a company is the Better Business Bureau.
Utility Setup
Nobody enjoys dealing with utilities during a move, but they are essential. Coordinating your service can be challenging, but these suggestions should help the process go smoothly.
Moving Help
Are you planning your move and utility switch? We can help with the moving process. Contact us today for a free quote.