How Do I Switch Utilities When Moving Into an Apartment? [2025]

To switch utilities when moving into an apartment, start by setting up or transferring services like electricity, water, gas, internet, and trash ahead of time. These behind-the-scenes essentials keep your home running smoothly. When you’re moving into a new apartment, the last thing you want is to show up on day one with no lights, no water, and no Wi-Fi. (Talk about a nightmare move-in!)

The good news? With a little planning, you can make the utilities handoff seamless—no service gaps, no surprise bills—so you can focus on unpacking and settling into your new place. From power and water to Wi-Fi and trash, here’s how to ensure everything’s ready before you pick up the keys.

Switching Utilities

What Should I Do to Prepare for Switching Utilities Before I Move?

To prepare for switching utilities before you move, start by making a checklist of your current services, confirm which accounts are in your name, and call providers at least two weeks ahead to schedule transfers. In practice, that means:

• Knowing how far in advance to schedule service.
• Finding out who your new providers are.
• Confirming which utilities you’ll need to set up yourself.

Let’s break those steps down.

How Far in Advance Should You Schedule Utility Services?

Two weeks out is the sweet spot. It gives providers time to process requests, set up new accounts, and (if needed) send a technician to your place.

Moving during peak times like the first or last weekend of the month? Call even earlier—spots for internet installs disappear fast.

Finding Your New Utility Providers

Not sure who runs utilities at your new address? Here’s how to find out:

• Ask your landlord or property manager. They’ll know which utilities are city-managed and which are up to you.
• Check the city’s website. Services like water and trash are often run by the city.
• Look online. Plug in your new address to see available options for internet, electricity, or gas.

If you do have choices, compare prices, contract terms, and reliability. A little research now can save you from sky-high bills later.

What Utilities Do I Need to Set Up?

At minimum: electricity, gas, water, internet, and sometimes trash or sewer.

Optional add-ons: cable, streaming bundles, or extras like renter-friendly security. Pro tip: before you start signing up, check your lease to see what’s already included—you might already have some basics covered.

What Are the Steps to Switching Utilities?

The steps to switching utilities are creating a master list, contacting providers, settling final bills and deposits, and completing final meter readings and equipment returns. Think of this as a simple four-step process that takes you from “about to move out” to “fully set up in your new place.” Each step helps prevent service gaps, surprise fees, and day-one headaches—here’s how it breaks down.

Step 1: Create a Master List of Your Current Utilities

Write down every provider you’re paying right now. Include:

• Account numbers
• Provider contact info
• Login details (for online portals)
• Monthly costs

This isn’t just about moving—it’s also a chance to audit your bills. Still paying for premium cable but only watching Netflix? Now’s the time to drop it.

Also, confirm which utilities were covered at your old apartment but may now be on you (like water or sewer). Your landlord can give you a ballpark estimate of monthly costs so you’re not blindsided.

Step 2: Contact Providers to Schedule Disconnection & Connection

Contact each utility provider before your move to schedule a shut-off at your old apartment and a start date at your new one. Call or log in online at least two weeks in advance, with your account numbers, move-in date, and new address on hand.

When giving notice, confirm your exact move-out and move-in dates and settle any remaining balances. To prevent service gaps, have utilities at your old apartment turned off a day after you move out and at your new apartment turned on a day before you arrive.

Pro tip: Leave a one-to-two-day overlap so you still have water and electricity for cleaning or packing at your old place—and Wi-Fi at your new place for streaming while you unpack.

Some services, like internet or cable, may require a technician visit, so scheduling early makes the process smoother and reduces last-minute moving-day stress.

Step 3: Settle Final Bills and Deposits

Before moving out, pay off all outstanding balances. Even small unpaid bills can ding your credit score.

Ask providers:

• When and how your final bill will arrive
• If you had a deposit on file, how and when it’ll be refunded
• If a deposit is required at your new place (common for first-time renters or those with limited credit history)

Don’t forget to give them a forwarding address for final statements.

Step 4: Conduct Final Meter Readings and Return Equipment

You should conduct final meter readings and return any rented equipment before moving out to close your accounts cleanly and avoid extra charges. Take photos of electricity, gas, and water meters for your records—this protects you in case of billing disputes later.

Return all rented equipment, like modems, routers, or cable boxes, and follow any instructions from your provider about shutting off or resetting devices. Forgetting this step can lead to unexpected fees.

This final step ensures your old accounts are officially closed and your new home is set up from day one.

What Do I Do on Move-In Day?

Once you move into your new apartment and your utilities are activated, do a quick scan of essentials: flip on the lights, run the water, test the stove, and confirm your internet connection.

If anything isn’t working, call your provider right away to get it fixed so you can settle in without disruption. Better to fix it now than after your first week of cold showers.

Have You Found Your New Apartment Yet?

If you haven’t found your new apartment yet, Apartment List can match you with options that fit your budget, location, and wish list. Our quiz helps you skip endless scrolling and go straight to apartments that feel like a fit. With us, you’ll spend five minutes and save 50 hours searching.

Frequently Asked Questions About How to Switch Utilities

Can utilities be turned on on the same day?

Yes, some utilities like electricity or gas can be turned on the same day if you call early, but internet and cable usually require a scheduled appointment.

Who is responsible for setting up utilities in a rental apartment?

The tenant is usually responsible for setting up utilities unless the lease says otherwise. Landlords sometimes include water, trash, or internet in the rent.

How do you transfer utilities from one person to another?

To transfer utilities from one person to another, contact the provider with the current account number, the new account holder’s details, and the effective transfer date. If you have roommates, make sure everyone agrees on who will be responsible for each utility and coordinate the transfer so service continues smoothly for the household.

Do you have to pay a deposit for utilities when moving?

Yes, many utility providers require a deposit, especially if you have no credit history or are a new customer. Deposits are typically refundable after consistent on-time payments.

How do I get a list of utility providers for my new address?

You can get a list of utility providers by checking with your landlord, property manager, city website, or online search by entering your new address.

What information do I need to set up utilities?

To set up utilities, you’ll usually need your new address, move-in date, ID, and payment info. Some providers may also require your Social Security number or a credit check.

Can I have an overlap in utility service between my old and new apartment?

Yes, overlapping utility service by one or two days is recommended to avoid gaps in essentials like water, electricity, and internet.

Are utilities included in all-inclusive apartments?

In all-inclusive apartments, some or all utilities are included in rent, but coverage varies. Always check your lease to confirm what’s included and what’s not.