When you're planning your next move, explore how to compare providers and find the most affordable rates when setting up utilities.

Setting up Utilities When You're Moving

 

Are you moving soon and not looking forward to setting up your utilities for the new place? The process has actually never been easier!

It used to be that, with such a small turnaround time, you had to quickly pick a new provider without getting the chance to find the best price.

Nowadays, you're able to find the right provider at the right price for your needs and have them set up before you move in.

Be sure to read below on the best practices for setting up utilities when moving. Take your time to carefully follow each step to a "T" in order to see the best results.

1. Compare Plans

If it's been a while since you've moved, you might hope to stay with the same provider as your current place.

However, there are two problems with that: 1) they might not service your new neighborhood, and 2) they may not be the most budget-friendly option.

A new neighborhood calls for a new gameplan. Some of you might be moving to a completely different state with no knowledge of the local providers.

In that case, it's best to go online and compare the different plans in the area. If you're moving to Texas, then you can shop around for different Texas electricity providers to find the best rate.

Be sure to compare rates on every service that you need. Some utilities, such as your water, might not have many options.

However, for things such as your cable or internet service, finding websites like Konecteaze.com can help you find the best place to order the internet.

2. Determine the Utilities That You'll Need

In order to move in comfortably on the "big day", you need to ensure that all the necessary utilities are up and running before you get there.

Make sure to view your lease or HOA to find out what utilities are needed and which ones you're responsible for.

For example, in some rentals, the trash pick-up is included, so you're only responsible for electricity, gas, water, and internet.

It's becoming more common for properties to only require electricity, thus eliminating the need for gas.

Write all the necessary utilities you need on a list, then compare rates of different providers for each utility that you have.

3. Budget for the Move

One of the biggest mistakes people make when moving into a new place is not budgeting for the utilities.

The first month that you move in will be tricky because you'll be paying costs on your previous property and your new one.

Not to mention that opening a new account with a utility provider might come with a new activation fee.

Now that you have an idea of the utilities you'll need in the new place and what providers are charging for them, it's time to set a budget.

Try to adjust portions like your entertainment budget, grocery budget, and extra spending to compensate for the pricier utility budget that the first month.

The good news is that after the first month, your utility costs should return back to normal!

4. Be Proactive When Scheduling Set-up Times

You never want to assume that your water, electricity, or any other service can be activated within the same week.

You're not the only person that will be reaching out expecting immediate service, so it's better to beat the crowd.

Try to reach out to each provider at least two weeks prior to your move-in date at the new place. This will ensure all companies can get out to your property with enough time to spare.

While you're at it, reach out to disconnect or deactivate the services at your current place within two weeks of the move-out date. Many providers now require at least a week's notice, if not sooner.

5. Understand the Provider's Process

No two utility activation processes are created equally. Every company has a different application process for you to receive their services.

Some require a background check, while others only perform a background check in an effort to waive the initial deposit fee.

No matter what their policies are, be sure you understand them before you agree to become their client.

Be sure to factor in the deposit while you're budgeting for the different utilities. Ask them the exact amount you should expect, the date when their service starts, and how you can pay the monthly charges.

6. Check the Services ASAP

Imagine the horror of setting up an account with your services two weeks prior to the move, unloading all your stuff at the new place, and finding out that the electricity isn't turned on.

As soon as you receive the keys to the new place, you want to make sure all the utilities have been turned on.

It doesn't matter whether that's a few days before the move or a few seconds before unloading the truck.

Be sure to hang on to all documentation and have it ready to use in case a service hasn't been turned on. While it's rare, it can happen. If it does, your provider will drop everything to activate it for you.

Be Diligent When Setting up Utilities

Now that you've seen the many steps towards setting up utilities during a move, make sure to focus on each phase.

If you're moving during the pandemic, be sure to read this article on the PUC COVID-19 program that's in place to protect Texas electricity customers.

For more inquiries, please be sure to reach out via our contact us page and we'll be happy to assist you further!