Moving into a new home is an exciting time. Whether it’s your first home, a rental, or the result of a recent relocation, the checklist of things to do can feel endless. One of the most important—and often overlooked—tasks is setting up your home utilities. Without electricity, water, internet, and other essentials, even the most beautifully decorated home can feel unlivable.

This complete guide is designed to help homeowners and renters alike understand the step-by-step process of setting up utilities in a new home. From choosing providers to avoiding common pitfalls, we’ll cover everything you need to know.

1. Understand What Utilities You Need

Before diving into phone calls and online applications, make a list of the essential utilities your household will require. While not every utility applies to every home, the most common ones include:

• Electricity

• Natural Gas

• Water and Sewer

• Trash and Recycling Collection

• Internet and Cable

• Home Security Systems

If you’re moving into a rural or suburban area, you might also need to consider septic systems or propane delivery, depending on your setup.

2. Find Out What’s Already Connected

In many cases, especially in rentals or recently built homes, some utilities may already be active or set up for easy transfer. Start by asking the landlord, real estate agent, or previous homeowner:

• Which services are already in place?

• Which companies currently provide them?

• Are there existing accounts or balances?

This can help streamline the process and prevent duplicate accounts or unexpected shut-offs.

3. Research Utility Providers in Your Area

Depending on where you live, you may have multiple options or just one regulated provider for each utility. Researching your options allows you to compare pricing, plans, and service reliability.

Electricity and Gas

In deregulated markets, you may be able to choose your electricity or gas supplier based on competitive rates or renewable energy options. In regulated areas, you’ll likely have a single utility company.

Water and Sewer

These services are typically managed by your local city or municipality. Check their official website for account setup instructions and billing schedules.

Trash and Recycling

Some cities bundle waste services with water and sewer, while others contract independent haulers. You’ll need to set up service and find out your collection schedule.

Internet and Cable

This is where you’ll likely have the most options. Research speeds, packages, data caps, and customer service reviews before committing. Consider whether you need cable TV or just high-speed internet.

4. Start Setting Up Accounts Before Moving In

Ideally, begin the setup process at least two weeks before your move-in date. This provides enough time for service installations, inspections, or in-home visits if needed.

Here’s what the setup process typically involves:

• Electricity/Gas: Call or go online to open a new account, transfer an existing one, or schedule activation. You may need to provide proof of residency, a photo ID, and a small deposit or credit check.

• Water/Sewer: Visit your municipality’s utility office website or call them directly. Activation often requires proof of property ownership or a lease agreement.

• Trash/Recycling: Inquire if you need to provide your own bins or if the city supplies them. Set up your billing method—some cities bill quarterly or include this on the water bill.

• Internet/Cable: Schedule installation well in advance if hardware setup is required. For simple modem/router hook-ups, a self-installation kit may suffice.

5. Budget for Connection Fees and Deposits

Setting up utilities often comes with one-time costs or security deposits, especially for first-time renters or those without an existing customer history. Common fees include:

• Electricity Connection Fee: $10 to $50

• Gas Hook-up Fee: $20 to $100, depending on service complexity

• Water Activation Fee: Around $30 to $50

• Internet Installation Fee: $50 to $100, unless waived in promotions

Be prepared to pay these upfront or have them added to your first bill. Keeping a small moving fund aside for utility setup can help ease this financial strain.

6. Don’t Forget to Cancel Your Previous Utilities

It’s easy to focus on your new home and forget to terminate or transfer utilities from your old address. Contact each provider and schedule a shut-off date that coincides with your move-out day. Be sure to:

• Take final meter readings (especially for electricity, gas, and water).

• Provide a forwarding address for your final bill or deposit refund.

• Return any rented equipment (modems, routers, trash bins, etc.).

This prevents billing errors and ensures you don’t pay for services you’re no longer using.

7. Set Up Online Accounts and Auto-Pay

Once utilities are active, create online accounts for each provider to manage bills, monitor usage, and receive service alerts. Most companies also offer auto-pay and paperless billing options that simplify monthly payments and reduce the chance of late fees.

Make a spreadsheet or keep a digital note with the following information:

• Provider names and contact numbers

• Account numbers

• Billing cycles

• Payment methods

• Usernames and passwords

This will make managing your utilities much easier in the long run.

8. Conduct an Energy and Efficiency Check

Once you’ve moved in, take some time to evaluate how energy-efficient your home is. This can lead to long-term savings and a more sustainable lifestyle.

Check for:

• Drafty windows or doors

• Old thermostats (consider upgrading to a smart one)

• Leaky faucets or running toilets

• Outdated light bulbs (switch to LEDs)

• Appliance age and energy ratings

Many cities offer free or discounted energy audits that can help you spot inefficiencies and lower your utility bills.

9. Know Who to Call in Emergencies

Power outages, water main breaks, and internet disruptions can and do happen. It’s wise to save emergency contact numbers for your utility companies in your phone or somewhere accessible. Most providers also offer outage maps or SMS alerts to keep you informed during disruptions.

10. Review Bills Regularly

Once everything is up and running, make it a habit to review your utility bills each month. Look for spikes in usage, incorrect charges, or fees you didn’t authorize. This will help you:

• Spot water or energy leaks

• Avoid surprises

• Catch errors early

If something doesn’t look right, contact the utility provider directly. Most are happy to explain charges or help troubleshoot problems.

Final Thoughts

Setting up utilities in a new home might not be the most glamorous part of moving, but it’s undoubtedly one of the most essential. With the right planning, research, and follow-through, you can make the process smooth, stress-free, and cost-effective.

By being proactive—starting early, comparing providers, and monitoring your usage—you’ll not only avoid last-minute headaches but also position yourself to save money and live more comfortably in your new space.

Whether you’re a renter, first-time homeowner, or seasoned mover, mastering the utility setup process is a life skill worth having.