Transfer your utilities before you move in, not after

Contact each utility company — electric, gas, water, internet, phone — at least two weeks before your move-in date. Give them your new address, the date you want service to start, and your account number from your current home if you're transferring within the same company's service area. Most utilities let you set up a new account or transfer an existing one online, by phone, or through their website. The company will tell you whether they need an in-person meter reading, a photo you submit, or if they can read it remotely.

If you're moving to a different utility company's service area — for example, switching from one electric provider to another — you'll need to close your old account and open a new one with the new provider. Ask your old utility when to schedule the final meter reading and what you owe. Some utilities charge a disconnection fee; others don't. Know this before you move so there are no surprises on your final bill.

Key Takeaways

  • Contact each utility company at least two weeks before you move to set up service at your new address.
  • Have your account number and new address ready when you call or go online to request a transfer.
  • Schedule a final meter reading at your old home on or near your move-out date to avoid paying for utilities after you leave.
  • If you're moving to a different service area, you'll close one account and open a new one rather than transfer.
  • Ask about deposits, connection fees, and any credits for early termination before you move.

What information you need to have ready

Gather your account number for each utility before you call. You'll find it on your most recent bill. Have your new address written down, including the zip code, and know the exact date you want service to begin. If you're transferring within the same company, they may ask for your current meter number or the address where service is ending.

Ask the utility representative whether they need anything from you beyond the phone call — some companies mail a form to sign, others send a confirmation email, and some handle everything over the phone. Write down the name of the person you spoke with, the date and time of the call, and any confirmation number they give you. Keep this information until your move is complete.

Scheduling disconnection at your old home

On the same call where you set up service at your new address, ask the utility company to schedule a final meter reading at your old home. This reading marks the end of your responsibility for that property. Schedule it for your move-out date or the day after — not weeks later, because you'll be charged for utilities you're not using.

Some utilities require you to be present for the final reading; others can do it remotely or accept a photo you take yourself. Ask which applies to you. If you can't be there, ask whether the landlord or property manager can let the meter reader in, or whether you can submit a photo of the meter. Get this in writing so there's no confusion on move-out day.

Understanding deposits and connection fees

Most utilities charge a connection fee to set up service at a new address — this typically ranges from nothing to several hundred dollars depending on the utility and whether the address has been active before. Some utilities waive the fee if you have a good payment history with them. Ask about this when you call.

If you're a new customer to that utility company, they may require a deposit. This is refundable once you've paid your bills on time for a set period, usually 12 months. Ask what the deposit amount is and when it will be returned. If you're transferring within the same company and have no late payments, you usually won't pay a new deposit.

What happens if you don't transfer in time

If you move without notifying your utility company, service may continue at your old address and you'll keep receiving bills there. The new occupant may also have trouble setting up service in their name. This creates a mess that takes weeks to untangle.

If you forget to schedule a final reading, you may be charged for utilities used after you move out — sometimes for months. The property owner or next tenant may also be unable to get service transferred into their name until your account is officially closed. Call the utility as soon as you realize the mistake and ask them to backdate the disconnection to your actual move-out date, though they may not be able to reverse all charges.

Transferring internet and phone service

Internet and phone companies often have longer lead times than electric or water utilities. Call at least three weeks before you move. Ask whether they can transfer your existing service to the new address or whether you need a new account. Some providers serve only certain areas, so you may need to switch companies entirely.

If you're keeping the same provider, ask about any equipment you need to return — modems, routers, phone boxes — and where to return it. If you're switching providers, ask your current company what the early termination fee is, if any. Some companies waive it if you're moving outside their service area; others charge it regardless.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer utilities online or do I have to call?

Most utilities let you start the transfer online through their website or app, but you may still need to speak with a representative to confirm details or schedule a meter reading. Calling is often faster if you have questions about deposits or fees.

What if the utility company has no record of my old address?

This sometimes happens if the previous tenant didn't close their account properly. Call the utility and explain you're the new occupant. They can usually look up the address by street and number and open a new account for you. Ask them to note in their system that the previous account was never closed so they can investigate.

Do I have to pay a deposit if I've never used that utility before?

Most utilities require a deposit from new customers, but the amount varies. Some waive it if you have a good credit score or can show a history of on-time payments with another utility. Ask what their policy is and whether you can pay it in installments.

What if I'm moving and my lease ends on a different date than my move-out date?

Schedule the utility disconnection for the date you're physically leaving the property, not the date your lease ends. If you stay past move-out day, you're responsible for utilities. If you leave before your lease ends, you shouldn't be charged for utilities after you leave.

Can I get a refund if I overpay my final bill?

Yes. Most utilities issue refunds for overpayment within 30 to 60 days. Ask the company how they process refunds — some mail a check, others credit your account if you're staying with them, and some offer direct deposit. Get the refund policy in writing so you know what to expect.