How to Transfer Utilities When Buying a House

If you’re among the 40 million Americans moving each year, you probably have a checklist of tasks. From unboxing your belongings to registering your kids at a new school, there is a lot to do. And you don’t want to forget about essential items, like utilities.

Read on to learn how to transfer utilities when buying a house!

Determine Your Needs

It may sound obvious, but your first step should be writing down your utility providers. This will include things like water, cable, and gas. It also can include electricity, phone and internet providers, and waste removal.

Next, reconsider your options. Do you really need a landline? Or do you use your internet instead of cable?

You may be able to ditch one or two of your providers to save money. Just make sure you are up to date with all payments before cutting ties. If you aren’t, those unpaid balances could become utility liens that prevent a sale from going forward.

Schedule a Disconnection

Make sure you contact your utility company to schedule a time for the disconnection. You’ll want to have access to electricity, gas, and water when you are in the process of selling your home. Potential home buyers and real estate agents will want to confirm that your light switches work and faucets provide water.

Let the utility company know your current address and the new one to ensure a smooth transfer when you buy a home. You’ll want to get a bill for your current home that includes any deposits back, if possible. San Diego real estate experts can help you navigate this process.

Transition Your Utilities

Transferring utilities typically is the route you’ll go with local or in-state moves. In many cases, you’ll even be using the same companies to provide those essential services.

You’ll just need to determine the date when you’ll need your utilities activated at the new address. Check your calendar, too, since you may need to be home when the services are activated. Ask about this to confirm.

Consider giving yourself some cushion, too. In other words, start the utilities at the new home a few days before moving in to be sure that things work and your new home is comfortable. In the winter months, you’ll want to be confident the furnace works.

If you’re moving out of state, you may need to disconnect services altogether. When moving to a new home, look into promotions for internet or cable packages that can help trim your costs. Ask new neighbors and real estate agents for recommendations of companies to use.

Learn How to Transfer Utilities When Buying a House

When you know how to transfer utilities when buying a house, you’ll help streamline the moving process. Be clear on your utility needs and reach out to every provider. Pay any outstanding balances, schedule your disconnection date, and ask about promotions if you’re moving to a new state.

Find more real estate tips to make buying a new home easier. Check back soon for new articles!