Many joys come with moving to a new home. But, unfortunately, a lot of not-so-glamorous tasks come with getting handed your new keys. Figuring out your utility situation is usually one of them.

If you don’t plan accordingly, you’ll be without lights, heat, and other services upon arrival. Don’t wait until the last minute because it often takes several days to set up these services.

On the flip side to this, you need to cancel your current utilities promptly, so you’re not paying double. If you’re wondering when and how to set up services in your new home, here’s the scoop.

Find a Provider

The first step you must do is figure out who your new provider will be. It’s possible your current provider won’t be able to service your new home. It’s one thing if you’re moving across town.

But, if you’re relocating to a new city or state, you’ll want to double check. If your current provider doesn’t service your new neighborhood, you shouldn’t have a hard time learning about the utility providers in the area. Just do a quick Google search.

Also, you can check various city websites, as they often publish information for newcomers. For instance, you can learn all about Tampa providers on this City of Tampa webpage.

When to Set Up Utilities

After you’ve found providers who best fit your needs, you need to start making appointments. It’s good to call at least two weeks before the move-in/move-out date.

Most providers can connect your new services in 3-5 business days, but you don’t want to push it too close. This is particularly true if you’re moving during a peak season, such as in the middle of summer.

Also, don’t wait until the last minute to have your current services disconnected. Again, we recommend calling roughly two weeks before you move out. To be safe, schedule your connection service for a day before the move-in, and disconnection a day after.

How to Set Up Utilities

To sign up for a new service, you’ll have to complete an application, and that includes a credit check. If this is your first home, you also may have to put a deposit down if you don’t have much credit.

However, you usually get this deposit back after you build your credit history with the utility companies. You’ll have to contact each provider to learn more about this process.

Also, if you’re a first-time homeowner, you should inquire about additional support from each provider. Some offer incentives to new buyers or even waive their deposit.

Moving to a New Home?

Figuring out how to set up utilities is just one small, yet essential, step in the moving process. If you’re relocating to the beautiful Tampa area, we’d love to help you get settled in.

Community Moving & Storage can help this be the easiest move you’ve had! As part of the Mayflower network, we have access to the largest fleet of trucks in the country. So, even if you’re not coming from the Tampa area, we can still help out.

Contact us today to learn more about our services!