Amidst the chaos of packing boxes and saying your goodbyes, planning your utility arrangements is a crucial step that you should consider. Properly managing your utilities can save you from unnecessary stress and expenses. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you handle your utilities efficiently when planning a residential move.
Create a Utility Checklist
Approximately six weeks before your move, create a comprehensive list of all your utility services. This will help ensure that you remember all critical services. Standard utilities to consider include:
- Electricity
- Natural gas, propane, or oil
- Water and sewer services
- Waste removal
- Internet, television, and telephone services
- Cellphone service
- Subscription services (e.g., medication, meal prep, newspaper deliveries)
Reviewing your bank statements, credit card statements, and recent bills can help you identify all your current services. This may also be an excellent time to review the necessity of specific utilities. Does your mobile phone replace the landline, or are streaming services replacing cable for you? You may not have to replace all your utilities in your new home.
Disconnecting Utilities in Your Current Home
One month before moving, begin contacting your service providers to either cancel, transfer, or shut off utilities. Here’s a step-by-step checklist to help:
- Prepare a list with all your utility services and account details.
- Log into your utility accounts online or schedule calls as needed.
- Ensure you have account numbers, the account holder’s name, and the intended move-out date ready.
- Settle any outstanding balances to avoid disruptions.
- Return any rented equipment, such as a cable box or modem.
- Notify utility companies of your new address so they can receive the final bills.
- Confirm all cancellations or transfers through email or service confirmations.
It is critical to close these accounts properly to avoid continued billing, which can lead to unnecessary expenses and potential impacts on your credit score.
Setting Up Utilities in Your New Home
Nobody wants to move into a new home only to find no electricity or internet. To ensure that utilities are ready at your new residence, follow these steps approximately a month before your move:
- Research and identify the utility providers serving your new location.
- Compare prices and service plans among different providers if you can choose.
- Check if your current utility providers offer services to facilitate a simple transfer in your new area.
- If you have a landlord or HOA, inquire about any utility fees included in your rent or HOA dues.
- Schedule the activation of your new utilities to coincide with your move-in date.
At your new home, verify that all utilities are functioning as planned. Keep contact information for each provider handy in case any issues arise.
Simplifying Your Move
Relocating can be stressful, but properly managing your utilities can make the transition much smoother. Hiring a professional moving service can help significantly if the process feels overwhelming. Professional movers not only handle physical transportation but can also offer valuable advice on managing your move. Contact us today for a free quote and make your move seamless.