Turning on Utilities for Your Your Apartment
What are Utilities
Utilities are your everyday essential services such as your electricity, gas, and water. They can also include non-essentials such as internet and cable. Utilities keep your apartment running smoothly. Setting up utilities may seem like a daunting task, but don’t worry — this article will guide you through the process.
Steps to Take Prior to Setting up Utilities
If possible, it is always important to talk to your landlord 3-4 weeks prior to moving into your new apartment and familiarize yourself with the lease agreement. The process for setting up utilities varies greatly between landlords, the location, and the lease agreement itself. In some cases, you won’t need to turn on utilities yourself as a technician will be provided by the landlord to set up utilities as part of the lease agreement.
Finding Your Service Provider by Checking the Lease Agreement:
Your first priority when buying or renting an apartment with utilities is to understand which company provides which service. For example, a single apartment may have multiple utility providers for different utilities such as gas or electricity. This information can be found in the lease agreement between you and your landlord.
Once you have identified your service provider, you can call or go online and provide the utility provider with your location and billing information to activate the utility appliances in your name. You may also want to visit the website of your utility provider to set up automatic payment arrangements through your bank account. Remember, it is your responsibility as a tenant to find the correct information and set up payments. In some cases your rent will include the cost of utilities but this is rare, and it is always a good idea to double check. Speak with your landlord about the process and they should be able to assist you.
Turning on Utilities:
Remember, if you are entering an apartment that had a previous owner, you aren’t simply “turning on” the utilities but actually transferring the billing process of those utilities to your name as part of the lease agreement.
In some instances, you may have multiple service providers to choose from. Make sure to have the exact address and area code written down so that when you call your utility provider, such as Florida Power & Light, you can give them the information needed to turn on or shut off utilities at your old or new home. You’ll need to give the exact date you want the service to start. You should also cancel any existing services from previous utility services. It is a good idea to closely check your bill after your first month to make sure that previous utilities have been canceled and that the rate is the same as stated in the lease agreement. It is also a good idea to compare your first and last utility bills side by side to make sure that everything was properly charged. If there is an error immediately contact your landlord.
Setting up Internet:
Most apartments will not provide Wi-Fi, and you will have to research internet service providers (ISP) in your area. You’ll need both a Wi-Fi router and modem for internet access. Even if you have your own Wi-Fi router, you will still need to subscribe to an ISP such as AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile and link your router to that company’s services by paying a monthly subscription through a modem. The modem allows your Wi-Fi router to access the internet through the ISP’s network infrastructure. The modem must also be compatible with your selected ISP.
After selecting your ISP, you can conveniently go to the ISP’s website and enter your address information for a personalized plan. For example, if you decided on Xfinity, you would visit their website: Xfinity Plans, Pricing and Offers and enter your address information. From there, you would then select the plan that works best for you. Once you’ve entered your address and selected a plan, their service will be linked to your Wi-Fi router and you’ll receive high speed internet. Sometimes a technician will be required to properly set up the modem to your router. Other times, you can receive a bundle with both a Wi-Fi router and modem at a special price but this may vary.
-Tips to Save on Energy Costs from Moving.com:
Turn off your AC and use fans when possible.
Change your AC filter every 3 months.
Keep your thermostats on low or turn them off when out.
Install programmable thermostats.
Update insulation frequently.
Turn off lights when not in use.
Turn off the electronic devices you’re not using at the moment.
Invest in energy-efficient ENERGY STAR appliances, these appliances are certified to use less energy than regular appliances.
Lower the temperature of your water heater
Take shorter showers, average shower time should be 6 minutes.
Use low-flow shower heads as they use less energy.
Keep curtains closed, especially during hot days
Close the doors and the window when heating or cooling your home.
Only run full loads of laundry
Air dry your laundry instead of using a dryer.
Wash dishes by hand when possible
Cancel subscription and streaming services you’re not using
Source: Mueller, Laura. “How to Set up Utilities in Your New Home.” Moving.com, 4 May 2022, www.moving.com/tips/how-to-set-up-utilities-in-your-new-home/.
Additional Sources for Information:
How to Set Up Utilities in Your New Home - Moving.com.
How To Set Up Utilities When You Move (2024 Guide)
What Utilities Are Included in Rent? An Easy Guide [2024]