Moving is one of those life events that looks simple on paper: pack, load, drive, unpack. But the real stress tends to come from the invisible stuff—like making sure your lights turn on the first night, your hot shower works the next morning, and your Wi‑Fi doesn’t vanish the moment you need to find the nearest pizza place.
Transferring utilities is basically the behind-the-scenes work that makes a move feel “settled.” It’s also the part that gets overlooked until the last minute, especially if you’re juggling a lease end date, a closing date, kids, pets, or a tight moving window. This guide breaks down how to transfer electric, gas, water, and internet (plus a few related services) so you can move with fewer surprises and fewer “why is this bill so weird?” moments.
Whether you’re moving across town or into a new province, the core steps are similar: confirm what’s already set up, schedule start/stop dates, document meter readings, and keep proof. Let’s walk through it in a way that actually matches how moving happens in real life.
Start with a utility game plan that matches your move timeline
Before you call any provider, take 20 minutes to map out your dates. You’re aiming for “no gaps” (so you’re never without service) and “no overlaps” that lead to paying for an empty home for weeks. A simple timeline will prevent most utility headaches.
Write down: your move-out date, your move-in date, the time you get keys, and whether you’ll have access to the new place before you officially move (for cleaning, painting, deliveries, etc.). If you’ll be in both places for a few days, you may want overlap on electricity and internet—especially if you work from home or need security systems running.
Also note what kind of home you’re leaving and entering. A condo may have water included. A single-family home may have separate gas for heating and hot water. Some rentals use submetering or building-managed utilities. The more you know upfront, the fewer calls you’ll have to make later.
Make a quick list of every service tied to your address
Utilities aren’t just electric and gas. Think about everything that “happens” automatically at your current address. If you miss one, it can lead to late fees, collections notices, or a service that keeps billing you after you’ve left.
Common items to list: electricity, natural gas/propane, water/sewer, garbage/recycling, internet, TV, home phone, security monitoring, smart home subscriptions, and even things like water softener rentals. Add anything else that bills you based on your address, including parking, storage, or HOA/condo fees if applicable.
This list becomes your checklist. You’ll cross items off as you schedule each transfer or cancellation.
Decide what you’re transferring vs. canceling and re-starting
Some providers let you “move” your account to a new address. Others treat it as a stop at the old place and a start at the new place. Both can work, but the process (and fees) may differ.
Internet providers often do a “move request” and ship new equipment or schedule a technician. Electricity/gas providers might simply update your service address and meter details. Water can be trickier because it’s often municipal, meaning you’re setting up a new account entirely.
If you’re switching providers (for price, speed, or availability), don’t cancel the old one until you have the new install date locked in. The goal is to avoid being without service—especially internet—during a busy move week.
Electricity: keep the lights on without paying for extra days
Electricity is usually the most time-sensitive transfer because it affects everything: lighting, refrigeration, heat (in some homes), charging devices, and basic comfort. The good news is that electricity transfers are often straightforward if you have your account number and the right dates.
Start by checking your current bill or online account for your account number, service address, and the name exactly as it appears on the account. If your name is slightly different (middle initial, spelling, etc.), some providers will ask you to confirm identity details.
Schedule your stop/start dates with real-life buffer in mind
A common mistake is setting the stop date to the same day you “plan” to move out, then running late and ending up in the dark while you’re still cleaning. If you can, schedule electricity to stop the day after you fully expect to be done. That little buffer can save stress.
For the new place, schedule electricity to start the day before you arrive if possible—especially if you need to run a fridge, charge tools, or clean. If you’re taking possession late in the day, you don’t want to discover the power isn’t active and then wait on hold while standing in an empty house.
In some regions, providers can do same-day activation, but it’s not guaranteed, and it may cost extra. A few days’ notice is usually safer.
Record meter readings and take timestamped photos
Even when providers estimate usage, meter readings protect you. On move-out day, take a clear photo of the electric meter showing the reading and the meter number (if visible). Do the same on move-in day at the new place.
This is especially important if you’re moving into a rental or a multi-unit building where meter mix-ups can happen. If there’s ever a billing dispute, photos with dates are your best friend.
If your home uses a smart meter, you may not need to submit readings—but photos still help if the final bill seems off.
Natural gas: plan around appliances, heating, and safety rules
Gas service can be simple, but it comes with extra safety procedures—especially if a service is being turned on after being off for a while. If your new home has gas heating, a gas stove, or a gas water heater, you’ll want this scheduled early.
Check whether your current home uses natural gas, propane, or electric for heating and hot water. If you’re not sure, look for a gas bill or ask your landlord/property manager. Knowing what you’re dealing with avoids a last-minute scramble when you realize your “heat” isn’t electric after all.
Know when a technician visit might be required
Some gas providers will require an adult to be home for activation, especially if the service was shut off completely. They may do a safety inspection, check for leaks, or relight pilot lights depending on the system.
If you’re moving during a busy season, technician appointments can book up quickly. Even if you’re not 100% sure of your move-in date, it’s worth calling early to understand lead times and requirements.
If you’re moving into a place that’s been vacant, ask whether gas is currently active. If it’s off, plan for an appointment and consider scheduling it before your moving day if you’ll have access.
Handle gas appliances and pilot lights thoughtfully
If your old home has a gas stove or dryer, you’ll likely need to disconnect it. If you’re not experienced with gas connections, consider hiring a professional. It’s not worth risking a leak to save a bit of money.
For move-in, if you smell gas at any point, leave the home and contact the gas provider or emergency services as appropriate. It’s rare, but moving days involve a lot of opening/closing doors and bumping things—so stay alert.
Also, keep in mind that a gas account transfer may require a credit check or deposit, especially if you’re starting service in a new region.
Water and sewer: the “quiet” utility that can cause loud problems
Water is easy to forget because it’s often always “just there.” But billing and account responsibility can get messy, particularly with rentals, condos, and municipal systems. In many places, water and sewer are handled by the city or region rather than a private utility company.
Your goal is to ensure you’re not paying for someone else’s usage and that you’re not accidentally leaving your old account open after you move. Water bills can lag behind real-time usage, so clarity matters.
Figure out who bills water at both addresses
Start by checking your lease or purchase documents. In some rentals, water is included. In others, it’s billed to the tenant. Some buildings use submetering companies that bill each unit separately, which means you’ll have a different process than a typical municipal account.
At your new place, ask your landlord, property manager, or realtor: “Is water billed to me directly? If yes, who is the provider and what’s the setup process?” Getting a clear answer early prevents you from missing a first bill or being surprised by a deposit requirement.
If you’re buying a home, your lawyer or closing paperwork may include a final meter reading or adjustment. Still, it’s worth confirming that the account is actually being transferred into your name.
Do a quick leak check on move-in day
Water issues can get expensive fast, and you don’t want to discover a running toilet after you’ve already been billed for a full month. On move-in day, check toilets for constant running, look under sinks for drips, and make sure outdoor taps are off.
If your home has a water meter you can access, note the reading when you arrive. Then avoid using water for 30–60 minutes and check again; if it changes, you may have a leak.
This isn’t about being paranoid—it’s about catching problems early while it’s easier to prove when they started.
Internet: plan for installs, equipment returns, and “dead zones”
Internet is the utility most likely to cause moving-day frustration because it involves equipment, technicians, and sometimes wiring that’s out of your control. The trick is to treat internet like a mini-project: verify availability, schedule installation, and plan a backup.
If you work remotely, stream entertainment, or rely on smart devices, prioritize internet planning right after electricity. It’s often the service with the longest lead time—especially if a technician is needed.
Check what’s available at the new address before you commit
Even if you love your current provider, they may not serve your new neighborhood, or the speed options might be different. Run an availability check using the exact address (including unit number). If you’re moving into a basement suite or a back unit, confirm how service is delivered.
Ask whether the home is already wired for cable or fibre and whether there’s an active line. If the previous resident had service, that can sometimes speed up activation.
Also ask about data caps, promotional pricing, and contract terms. Some “great deals” jump dramatically after a few months, which is not a fun surprise when you’re already adjusting to new housing costs.
Return old equipment and document it
Modems, routers, TV boxes, and Wi‑Fi pods often need to be returned. Missing equipment fees can be surprisingly high. If you return items in person, ask for a receipt. If you ship them back, keep the tracking number and take a photo of the package label.
It’s also worth taking a photo of the serial numbers on the equipment before returning it. That makes it much easier to resolve disputes if the provider claims something wasn’t returned.
If you’re renting a modem, check whether switching to your own equipment is allowed and whether it’s worth it long-term.
Have a backup internet plan for the first week
Even with careful planning, installs can be delayed. If you need reliable internet immediately, plan a backup: mobile hotspot, extra data plan, or a nearby coworking space. If you have important meetings, consider scheduling them away from your move-in day.
If you’re moving with family, remember that kids and teens often rely on Wi‑Fi for school and entertainment. A backup plan can keep everyone calmer during the chaos of unpacking.
And if you’re setting up internet in a larger home, plan where the router will live and whether you’ll need mesh Wi‑Fi to avoid dead zones.
Other services people forget until it’s too late
Even if you nail the big four (electric, gas, water, internet), there are a few “supporting” services that can create annoyance if missed. These aren’t always classified as utilities, but they behave like them: they’re tied to your address and they keep billing until you stop them.
Set aside time to review your monthly statements and subscriptions. If it shows up every month and relates to your home, it belongs on the moving checklist.
Garbage, recycling, and compost pickup
In some cities, waste services are included in property taxes; in others, you may need to set up an account. If you’re moving into a place with special bins or tags, find out the local rules so you’re not stuck with overflowing boxes and nowhere to put them.
If you’re leaving a rental, ask your landlord where bins should be left. If you’re buying, confirm whether bins stay with the property.
Also check pickup days at the new address. It’s a small detail that makes your first week feel more organized.
Security systems, smart home subscriptions, and monitoring
Doorbell cameras, monitored alarms, and smart locks may have monthly fees. Some can be transferred to a new address; others require a new install. If you’re moving into a home with existing hardware, confirm what’s included and what needs to be re-registered.
For rentals, always get permission before installing anything that requires drilling or wiring. If you’re buying, you may want to reset devices to factory settings for privacy and security.
Don’t forget to update emergency contact addresses and billing details so you don’t miss alerts or invoices.
Heating oil, propane, and other fuel deliveries
If your home uses heating oil or propane, you may have delivery contracts or tank rentals. These can be very location-specific. Call providers early to understand how final billing works and whether you need to schedule a final fill or tank pickup.
For move-in, ask the seller/landlord what the current tank level is and whether it will be topped up. This can be negotiated during a home purchase, but it’s harder to fix after the fact.
Fuel deliveries also require safe access to the property, so plan around snow removal, gates, and driveway access if you’re moving in winter.
Renters vs. homeowners: the transfer process isn’t the same
The utility transfer process changes depending on whether you rent or own. Renters often have simpler setups (some utilities included), but also less control over providers and infrastructure. Homeowners have more control, but more responsibility.
Either way, the key is clarity: know what you’re responsible for, what’s included, and what needs to be in your name on day one.
If you’re renting, confirm what’s included—don’t assume
Many renters assume water or heat is included because it was included in a previous apartment. But every building and lease is different. Read your lease and ask questions before you sign, or at least before moving day.
If utilities are included, ask how they’re handled. Is there a fair-usage policy? Are there extra charges for air conditioning or in-suite laundry? Knowing the rules helps you budget and avoid disputes.
When you’re coordinating a rental move, it can help to align packing, scheduling, and utility setup with professionals who understand apartment logistics—elevators, parking permits, tight stairwells, and building rules. If you’re looking for rental property moving services, it’s worth choosing a team that’s used to working with property managers and can keep your move on schedule so your utility start/stop dates actually match reality.
If you’re buying, watch for closing-date gaps and occupancy details
Home purchases often involve closing dates, possession dates, and sometimes a gap between them. Make sure your utility start dates match when you actually take possession, not just when paperwork is signed.
Ask your lawyer or realtor how utilities are handled in your area. Some are adjusted at closing; others require you to call and set up accounts yourself. Don’t rely on assumptions—get it in writing if possible.
Also, if renovations are happening before move-in, you may want utilities active earlier for contractors. That can mean paying for a few extra days, but it can save time and prevent delays.
Moving long distance changes how you schedule everything
When you’re moving far away, the “just call them tomorrow” approach doesn’t work. You may not be physically present to meet a technician, read a meter, or troubleshoot an issue. Long-distance moves need earlier planning and more documentation.
The other challenge is overlap: you may need utilities running at your old place while you travel, and you may need utilities at the new place before you arrive if deliveries or cleaners are scheduled.
Plan for travel days and service windows
If you’re driving for multiple days, you might not be reachable for long hold times or callback windows. Try to schedule transfers at least two weeks ahead and choose appointment times when you know you’ll have stable phone service.
If a technician must enter the home, arrange for a trusted person to be there—landlord, realtor, friend, or property manager. Make sure they know what’s being installed and where equipment should go.
For people coordinating cross country moving, it can help to build a “utilities day” into your planning calendar where you handle all calls, confirmations, and account updates in one focused block. It’s much easier than trying to do it between packing and travel logistics.
Use a moving binder (digital counts) for confirmations and screenshots
Save confirmation numbers, chat transcripts, and emails in one folder. If you call providers, note the date, time, and the agent’s name. This might feel like overkill—until something goes wrong and you need proof that you scheduled service.
Take screenshots of scheduled start/stop dates. If you’re mailing equipment back, keep tracking numbers in the same folder.
If you’re changing provinces, add notes about any differences in billing cycles, deposits, or required ID. Small administrative differences can lead to delays if you’re not prepared.
Military moves and relocations: extra coordination, fewer surprises
Military families and members often move on tighter timelines, sometimes with short notice. That can make utility transfers feel like a race. The good news is that with a repeatable checklist, the process becomes much more manageable.
In many cases, you’re coordinating not just your own schedule but also reporting dates, housing office timelines, and travel requirements. Utilities should be treated as part of your readiness plan, not an afterthought.
Prioritize services that impact safety and livability
If you have to triage, prioritize electricity, heat (gas or electric), and water first. Internet can be next, especially if you need it for work, school, or staying in contact with family. Everything else can follow once the home is functional.
If you’re moving into temporary housing, confirm which utilities are included and what you’re responsible for. Temporary accommodations can have different rules than standard rentals.
When you’re arranging a move with pcs relocation assistance, it’s helpful to keep a single checklist that covers both the physical move and the administrative side—utility transfers, address changes, and documentation—so nothing slips through during a busy posting season.
Keep documentation ready for deposits or account setup
Some providers require ID, proof of address, or a deposit—especially if you’re new to the region. Keep digital copies of key documents accessible: ID, lease or purchase agreement, and any official paperwork that confirms your new address.
If you expect reimbursement for certain move-related expenses, keep receipts and confirmations. Even if utilities aren’t reimbursed, having clean records helps you track costs during a move.
Also consider setting up provider accounts using a stable email address you’ll keep long-term, not an employer-specific one that could change.
How to avoid billing problems and surprise fees
Most utility transfer issues aren’t about the transfer itself—they’re about billing after the transfer. Final bills, deposits, and overlapping service dates can create confusion. A few habits will keep your accounts clean.
Think of this as “closing out” one address and “opening up” another, with clear documentation on both ends.
Ask about final billing cycles and prorating
Some providers issue a final bill immediately after your stop date; others bill on a regular cycle and include final charges later. Ask what to expect so you don’t miss a bill and get hit with late fees.
If you’re on equal billing or budget billing, ask how the final reconciliation works. You might owe money if you used more than estimated, or you might get a credit.
For internet, ask whether you’re billed in advance and whether partial months are prorated. Some providers don’t prorate, which can influence when you schedule cancellation.
Update your mailing address and payment method right away
If you’re moving, your old mailing address may not be reliable. Switch to paperless billing if you can, and update your email address and phone number in each provider account.
If you use automatic payments, confirm the payment method is current. If you’re switching banks or credit cards around the same time as the move, utilities are a common place where old payment info causes missed payments.
For added safety, set calendar reminders for the first two billing cycles after your move to check that charges look reasonable.
Don’t forget to cancel services you won’t use at the new place
It’s easy to transfer everything by default, but you might not need it all. Maybe your new building includes internet, or you’re switching from gas to electric. Canceling unneeded services saves money and reduces account clutter.
Just make sure cancellations are scheduled for the correct date and that you get confirmation. If equipment return is required, plan it like a mini-task with a deadline.
If you’re unsure, keep a short overlap period, then cancel once you’re confident the new setup works.
A practical checklist you can use without overthinking it
Sometimes you don’t need more theory—you need a simple sequence you can follow. Here’s a practical order of operations that works for most moves, whether you rent or own.
Use this as a checklist and adapt it to your region and providers.
Two to three weeks before moving
Gather account numbers and logins for electricity, gas, water, and internet. Make a list of any other address-based services you pay for.
Call or schedule online transfers: set electricity and gas start/stop dates, request internet move/installation, and contact municipal water billing if needed.
If a technician is required for gas or internet, book the appointment immediately. Appointment slots disappear quickly during peak moving months.
One week before moving
Confirm appointments and start dates. Save confirmation emails and take screenshots. If you’re returning internet equipment, locate it now (including power cords).
Plan your router location and Wi‑Fi setup at the new home. If you need mesh units or a longer cable, order them now so they arrive on time.
If you’ll be without internet briefly, set up a hotspot plan or identify a backup location to work from.
Move-out and move-in days
Take timestamped photos of electric and gas meters (if accessible) and the water meter if you have one. Take photos at both the old and new addresses.
Do a quick water leak check at the new place: toilets, faucets, under-sink pipes, and any visible shutoff valves. Catching issues on day one is much easier than arguing about them later.
Keep your phone charged and have provider numbers handy. If something doesn’t activate as expected, you’ll want to troubleshoot quickly.
Small details that make utility transfers feel effortless
Utility transfers can feel like a pile of phone calls, but a few small habits make the process smoother. Think of these as “moving shortcuts” that reduce mental load.
They’re not complicated—just the kind of things people learn after one too many stressful moves.
Use one email folder and one note for everything
Create a folder in your email called “Move – Utilities” and a single note (in Notes, Google Keep, or a document) with: provider name, account number, start/stop dates, confirmation numbers, and any appointment windows.
When you’re exhausted on moving day, you don’t want to hunt through inboxes for a confirmation number while sitting on the floor surrounded by boxes.
This also helps if you’re coordinating the move with a partner—both of you can access the same info and avoid duplicate calls.
Ask providers what happens if your dates change
Moves rarely go exactly as planned. Ask each provider: “If my move-in date changes, how much notice do you need to adjust start/stop dates?” Some can change quickly; others require several business days.
Knowing the flexibility upfront reduces panic if your closing date shifts or your landlord changes key pickup times.
If you’re unsure, choose dates that give you a bit of buffer, then refine them once your schedule is locked.
Keep the home functional before you make it perfect
It’s tempting to aim for the perfect setup from day one—best plan, best router placement, perfectly optimized billing cycles. But during a move, “functional” beats “perfect.” Get power, heat, water, and basic internet working first.
Once you’ve slept a few nights and unpacked the essentials, you can revisit plans, negotiate rates, or switch providers if needed.
That approach keeps you from making rushed decisions under stress, which is when people end up stuck in expensive contracts or paying unnecessary fees.
