When you're moving to a new home, one of the most important steps is making sure your utilities and home services are transferred or started on time. That includes more than just electricity. You’ll need to contact providers for water, gas, internet, trash, and other services to avoid any surprises after move-in day. This guide walks you through exactly how to transfer utilities, when to schedule service, and what to do if you need utilities active at two homes during your move. Whether you’re buying a house, renting, or relocating across town, this checklist helps make your move smoother and keeps all the essentials up and running.
Browse electricity plans.
The best time to start updating utilities is about 2 to 3 weeks before your move. Some services require installation appointments or early notice, and you don’t want to get caught without internet or water when you arrive.
Keep a simple calendar and set reminders for each step below.
Some homes in Texas use natural gas for heating, water heaters, or cooking.
Call your current gas provider to schedule a shut-off date.
If your new home uses gas, contact the local gas utility to schedule service.
Ask about inspection or pilot light relighting requirements.
These services are usually managed by the city or county.
Visit your new city’s website or utility department to transfer or start water service.
Schedule both disconnection and activation for your move dates.
Some cities require you to pay a deposit or fill out a request form in person or online.
You don’t want to arrive at a new place and find out trash pickup is delayed or nonexistent.
Contact the new city or waste provider to start service and learn pickup days.
Arrange for any special disposal services (bulk trash, hazardous items).
Leave bins at your old home if they belong to the property.
Internet service often takes longer to install due to technician availability or equipment delivery.
Schedule installation 2–3 weeks ahead of time.
Decide if you're transferring service or starting fresh with a new provider.
Return or bring any required equipment like modems or cable boxes.
Test your internet speeds early in the new home to confirm everything’s working.
Security systems may require new hardware, permits, or rewiring depending on the home.
Contact your security provider to discuss options.
Schedule reinstallation or equipment transfer.
Update emergency contact information and addresses.
If using smart security devices, reconnect them to the new home's Wi‑Fi.
You may miss important bills, documents, or deliveries if mail isn’t redirected.
Go to USPS.com and set up mail forwarding (you can pick the date).
Update your address with banks, subscriptions, and online retailers.
Notify any medical providers, schools, or voter registration offices.
Some accounts are linked to your address for billing, regional availability, or emergency services.
Update your address in your account settings.
Check whether local taxes or service availability change.
Adjust your billing info for any physical mail or delivery services tied to your account.
Some neighborhoods include extra services like pest control, landscaping, or alarm systems.
Contact your HOA to understand what utilities or services are bundled.
Make sure you're listed as a new resident with updated contact information.
Use a simple spreadsheet or checklist app to track:
The name of the service
Contact info
Last service date
New service start date
Confirmation numbers or emails
This keeps everything in one place and avoids any surprises after the move.
Electricity is just one piece of the moving puzzle. With a little planning, you can avoid service gaps, double billing, or that awful feeling of realizing your internet is out the day of your move. Start early, make your list, and check off one service at a time.
It depends. If you're renting, some landlords manage water or trash services. Always ask what's included in your lease and which utilities you're responsible for.
Yes, most providers allow this, but you may need to submit proof of residency or ID. It's best to call and confirm the process with each utility.
You may need to arrange all services from scratch. Some developments have preferred providers, but you should still shop around where choice is allowed.
For services like gas or internet, you may need to be present for a technician visit. Electricity and water may not require anyone on-site.
Yes, many people need overlapping service at both old and new addresses. Just make sure you clarify this when setting up or transferring accounts.
