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About two to three weeks before moving, you'll want to contact the utility service providers for your old and new homes. When you call, have on hand your account or policy number, the mailing address of the home you are moving out of, and if using the same provider, the address of your new home (including the postal code).
Print and track your calls with this checklist:
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Current Home |
New Home |
| Electric |
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| Gas |
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| Water |
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| Fuel/Heat |
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| Cable TV |
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| Home Security |
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| Telephone |
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| Internet |
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PDF files can be viewed with Adobe Acrobat Reader. This program is available as a free download from Adobe (also acts as a plug-in for Netscape). |
When contacting local utilities, keep in mind:
Some providers shut off your services at a specific time each day and some let you choose when you want them shut off.
While it's tempting to have the services shut off as soon as possible to minimize costs, you may want to keep them on until the day after you move. Otherwise, you may find yourself without hot water, power or telephone service.
Similarly, you may want to have the utilities connected in your new home the night before or the same day you expect to move in. This way, everything will be in working order when you arrive and you can hook up and use your appliances immediately. (Plus, you'll know right away whether your utilities are working, and you can immediately troubleshoot any that aren't.)
If you'll be renting, confirm with your property manager or landlord that the utilities covered in your rental agreement will be on when you move in. (You are responsible for contacting utility providers not included in your rental agreement.)
When cancelling services, ask if you'll receive refunds of any deposits you paid to begin the service. If you're using the same provider in your new home, ask if the deposit can be waived.
If you're a new client for the utility, you may be asked to pay a security deposit and/or new account fee. If these amounts are too high:
- Ask if you can pay in installments.
- Sign up for Automatic Payment and Equal Billing Plans.
- Allow the utility company to perform a credit check. You will have to pay a small fee, and the results must be satisfactory to the provider.
- Obtain a reference letter from the old provider explaining your good paying habits.
- Shop around! Ask providers if they offer bundled services (such as cable TV, Internet and telephone in one package) that can save you money. Ask about their current discounts and promotions. And don't be afraid to tell them you're checking out their competitors.
Did you know? |
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Ongoing monthly costs for things such as utilities and home insurance can be paid through your RBC Visa† via pre-authorized payments. If you have an RBC Rewards® Visa, this enables you to collect Royal Reward points, which can provide you with access to hundreds of reward options. To set up the pre-authorized payments on your RBC Visa, contact the respective utility and/or insurance company. |
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