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How to Transfer Utilities: Ultimate Guide for Renters, Buyers, and Sellers
Comprehensive step-by-step utility transfer guide for renters, buyers, and sellers
5 minute read • Last update February 2025
Moving to a new home comes with a long to-do list, and figuring out how and when to transfer utilities is usually somewhere near the top. Whether you’re a renter, buyer, or seller, transferring utilities as smoothly as possible helps ensure uninterrupted service and protects against unexpected bills.
In this quick guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about how to transfer utilities so you can focus on scheduling movers, settling in, and enjoying your new home—without the stress of overdue bills.
When to start the utility transfer process
How to transfer utilities when moving starts with timing—begin the process at least a month before your move so you have enough time to notify your current service providers and set up utility services at your new address while avoiding service gaps or delays.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth transition.
Step 1: Get organized
Changing utilities when moving is much easier with a well-planned approach. Gather important billing information, such as your account numbers, and create a list of phone numbers for each utility provider. Make a checklist to track important dates for service cut-off, final meter readings, moving days, new provider account activation, and other key milestones.
Step 2: Assess your utility needs
Planning how to switch utilities when moving involves multiple services and providers. While your electric and water bill are typically the primary considerations, here’s a list of additional services you’ll need to address:
- Natural gas
- Trash
- Recycling
- Sewage
- Internet
- Cable
- Home security
Remember that you’ll need to cancel utilities in your old home for each service and set up new accounts in your next one. You may need to contact utility companies multiple times to coordinate cut-off and activation dates. If you’re unsure of your energy needs, scheduling a home energy audit is a great way to pinpoint efficiency, comfort, and cost savings.
Step 3: Timing your utility transfer
In addition to researching how to transfer your electric service to the new owner or tenant, working out when to switch utilities can save headaches and unnecessary expenses on both ends. The goal is to turn off gas, electricity, water, and sewer services from your current utility providers shortly before departing and have new utility accounts with your preferred providers up and running before moving day.
Step 4: Notify your current utility providers
Contact each utility company in advance to arrange a transfer or cancellation. Some service providers need to schedule a technician to turn off your service, conduct a final reading, and determine any unpaid balances. Notifying utility providers at least 30 days before your move date is generally recommended, but check with each company for specific deadlines.
Step 5: Setting up utilities in your new home
With the groundwork for how to change utilities when moving out of your old property covered, it’s time to research utility providers in your new location. The most important tasks include contacting:
- Electricity utility service providers: Compare rates and plans carefully, especially if you’re moving to a deregulated energy market where you can choose your provider.
- Water and sewer utilities: Water meters and sewage utility bills are often managed by local municipalities, so check with your city or county office to see who your provider is.
- Natural gas service providers: Some cities have multiple gas providers, so check online reviews and get referrals from friends and family before deciding.
- Trash and recycling services: Many areas provide government-run waste management services, while others require you to contract a private provider or organize removal via your homeowner’s association (HOA).
Consider making a spreadsheet to track contact information, account numbers, installation appointment dates, and non-essentials like internet and cable.
Step 6: Confirm final bills and deposits
Mastering how to transfer electric service contracts and other essential utilities with minimal hassle can be accomplished by following this simple 6-step process:
- Schedule final readings to ensure accurate billing and prevent overcharges.
- Settle outstanding balances to avoid overdue bills impacting your credit.
- Return equipment like internet routers, cable boxes, and smart meters to avoid additional fees.
- Verify deposit refunds and confirm when you can expect reimbursement.
- Request a final bill statement for your records.
- If you don’t use online billing, update your address to ensure you receive the final documentation.
Following these steps helps ensure transparency and prevents important billing information from being lost/misplaced across multiple homes.
Special considerations for buyers, sellers, and renters
Though the principles on how to transfer utilities are the same regardless of your situation, the steps for changing providers may differ slightly depending on whether you’re renting, selling, or buying.
Tip tips for how to transfer utilities when renting
Ask your landlord or leasing office for the names and numbers of your current utility companies, and double-check your lease agreement to see if there are extra fees for specific services like waste removal.
Top tips for how to transfer utilities from seller to buyer
If you’re deactivating a service or transferring utilities to the new owner, leaving utilities on until closing day allows buyers to do a final walkthrough and check everything is working correctly. In some transactions, having a title company transfer utilities on your behalf may be possible.
Top tips for how to transfer utilities when buying a house
Get current providers’ information from your real estate agent or directly from the seller, and check with the HOA to see if there are any extra charges, start-up fees, or outstanding balances for specific utilities. Some utility companies require a deposit or transfer fee, so always have your credit card or checking account number ready when making calls.
Quick tips for moving utilities hassle-free
Here’s a quick recap and some final thoughts on how to transfer utilities to ensure your move goes off without a hitch:
- Start early: Notify utility providers at least 30 days in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
- Create a checklist: Keep track of cutoff and activation dates to prevent service interruptions.
- Research thoroughly: Compare energy costs and service plans for the best deal.
- Keep records: Save confirmation emails and final bills so it’s easy to resolve any disputes.
- Call new providers on move day: Double-check you’ll have electricity, hot water, etc., ready to go before you move.
- Set up autopay: Ensure utility bills are paid on time by enrolling in autopay with your new providers.
Planning ahead and staying organized are key to successful utility transfers.
Save on electricity plans with BKVE
Moving to a new home is the perfect time to reassess your electricity plan. BKVE provides affordable electricity plans for Texas residents with straightforward pricing and no hidden fees. Our fixed-rate plans come with transparent contracts and no usage requirements, making it easy to transfer electric service providers and understand precisely what you’re paying for.
With popular options like our Bluebonnet plan, it’s easy to stay powered up without breaking the bank! Explore our plans and make the switch today!
FAQs
When you have questions about how to transfer utilities when buying a house or moving into a new rental, we have the answers.
How much does it cost to transfer utilities?
Costs vary depending on your location and providers. Some utility companies charge transfer fees or security deposits, while others allow free service transfers. Contact each provider for specific costs and deposit requirements.
Can I have electricity in two houses when moving?
Yes, many utility providers allow you to temporarily keep services active at two addresses to ensure a seamless transition.
Does the buyer or seller transfer utilities?
Sellers typically handle closing their accounts while buyers set up new services. However, some utility services may be transferred directly. Check with local providers for specific procedures.
Does the title company transfer utilities?
While title companies may remind you about utility transfers before closing, they do not usually handle them. It’s best to handle these arrangements yourself to ensure everything is set up correctly.
Can I get same-day electricity?
Most providers require advance notice to activate service. Contact BKVE to learn about our service activation timeline and schedule your electricity connection.
How do you transfer utilities to a new roommate?
Contact the utility company to update your account. Some providers require both parties to confirm the change, and a credit check may be needed for the new account holder.
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