Moving in is the final piece of the puzzle when it comes to the moving process, and it is arguably the most stressful piece. There are so many miscellaneous things that go into moving.
If you’re moving into a new home, then you’re probably worrying about every single thing that could go wrong with the new house.
If you’re moving into something rented, like an apartment, then you’re trying to find the most efficient process of moving in, finding all the initial repairs that need to happen, and so on.
One thing that is absolutely crucial to the move-in process is to set up utilities. That can look different depending on whether you’re moving into something rented or owned or moving into a large or small space.
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Ways To Save On Utilities
Since usage accrues charges on your utility bill. Here are some quick tips for saving a few extra dollars with smart habits.
- Turn off the lights when you leave a room.
- Turn off your AC when possible, and use fans instead
- Keep the thermostat on low or turn it off when you can
- Keep the curtains closed
- Keep doors and windows shut when using heat or air-conditioning
- Make sure your installation is updated
- Bundle your cable and internet
- Unsubscribe to things you don’t use on your internet and cable bill
How To Set Up Utilities
You will need to start the setup for your utilities three to four weeks before you move in. The more time you give your utility companies to set up, the better. This is because they may have to go out to your property to set things up.
To transfer your utilities (meaning you do not need to change your provider, but only change the address that they supply to) simply call the company, and inform them of when you will be leaving your old home. Then, let them know your new address and when your move-in date is.
If you need to cancel your utilities, then you’ll need to call the utility company and let them know when you’ll be moving out and the address that you will be leaving.
If you’re setting up with a new utility company, you can tell them your move-in date and the address of your new home.
How to Set Up Utilities When Buying A House
Setting up utilities when buying a home differs from other living situations due to the fact that you will be a homeowner.
There will be no landlord to supervise or possibly pay for some of it. This means that the way that you handle setting them up and paying for them will be a bit more involved.
You’ll likely need to set up electricity, gas, water and sewer, trash and recycling, and security (if that’s your speed).
Since you’ll be the owner of your home, you can find the companies that you will use on your city’s website or even the county’s website. This may be different than the company you used before.
How to Set Up Utilities When Renting
Setting up utilities when renting can mean a new apartment or a rented living space. This needs to be done in the same time frame as all other options, or possibly sooner.
Some places do not let you move in without proof of utilities being set up. You should ask your leasing company what utility companies they use so that you can set it up.
How to Set Up Utilities In A New Apartment
This is the same as renting a space. You need to figure out what utilities need to be set up before you move in. This may also require proof of utilities being on before moving in.
Moving into a brand-new apartment has the possible challenge of utilities having an installation fee like in a new home. Your leasing company should pay for this though.
You’ve Set Up Your Utilities!
Congratulations! You’re now caught up on the ins and outs of setting up utilities. It can be slightly time-consuming, but the necessities they provide are worth it. You can now set up utilities when buying a house or set up utilities when renting.
Maura De Cicco attends the University of Iowa as a Journalism and Anthropology student. She plans to pursue a strategic communications track when it comes to writing, and an archaeology track when it comes to Anthropology.
