Published on August 17th, 2022

Last updated on February 6th, 2023

How To Transfer Utilities When Renting Or Moving To New Address

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
checking electric bills

Each of us knows that paying utility bills is not always as easy as it might seem. And the price for them can sometimes reach unprecedented heights. Even in films, this picture is represented as the protagonist sitting until night in a pile of papers, where he has been completely confused for several hours. However, sometimes the situation is more complicated, especially when it comes to switching utilities when moving.

Are you in the process of moving and need to transfer your utilities over to your new address? If so, you’re likely wondering how this process works. In this case, you need to do everything right, as even the slightest mistake can lead you into an awkward situation or unpaid bills, which can come as a surprise.

I have prepared the article devoted to the steps you need to take to transfer your utilities when renting or just moving to a new address. Keep reading to learn more!

Overview

checking utility bills

We can get detailed instructions on properly switching your utilities when moving. In the instructions, I have collected the best and most practical tips people use. With this cheat sheet, you will never forget important points and nuances.

The instruction paper contains the next steps:

  • When should you start the transfer process?
  • How to transfer utilities when renting?
  • What information do you need?
  • What are the best methods for transferring utilities?
  • Are there any restrictions on who can transfer service to their name?
  • What if I have a problem with transferring utilities?
  • What’s the best way to cancel service when you move out of your rental property?
  • Will transferring utilities affect my credit score in any way?

After reading it, you will get all the necessary knowledge and information on how to do this procedure properly.

How To Transfer Utilities To A New Address?

There are a few different ways that you can transfer utilities, depending on your situation:

  • If you’re renting from a private landlord, they may be able to help you with transferring utilities in your name. In some cases, they may even be able to do it for you;
  • If you’re renting from a property management company, they usually have a process for transferring utilities. This is often the easiest way to transfer utilities when renting, as they will already have all the necessary information and contacts;
  • The transfer process will be slightly different if you’re buying a property. In most cases, you’ll need to contact the utility companies directly to arrange for service transfer into your name.

When Should You Start The Transfer Process?

The best time to start the transfer process is as soon as you have your new address. This will give you plenty of time to sort everything out and avoid any potential problems or delays.

The transfer process should be relatively straightforward if you’re moving within the same city or town. However, if you’re moving to a new city or state, it’s essential to research the transfer process beforehand to know what to expect.

What Information Do You Need To Transfer Utilities To New Adress?

To transfer utilities, you’ll need to provide basic information, such as: 

  • your name;
  • address;
  • date of birth. 

You may also need a driver’s license or passport as proof of identification. In general, any documents with which you can confirm that you are you and no one else will do.

What Are The Best Ways For Transferring Utilities?

The best method for transferring utilities will depend on your situation. However, some general tips that can help make the process more accessible include:

  • Start the transfer process as early as possible. This will give you plenty of time to sort everything out and avoid any potential problems or delays;
  • Gather all of the necessary information before starting the transfer process. This will make it much easier and quicker to get everything sorted out;
  • If you’re moving to a new city or state, research the transfer process beforehand to know what to expect. This can save a lot of time and hassle in the long run.

The cost of transferring utilities will vary depending on the utility type and the company you’re using. However, in most cases, it shouldn’t be too expensive. In some cases, there may even be no charge at all.

How To Transfer Utilities When Renting In 4 Steps

woman checks the utility bill

You should:

  1. Make a list. The first step is to list all the utilities you need to transfer. This includes gas, electricity, water, trash, internet, and cable. If you have any other services, such as a security system or lawn care, be sure to include those as well;
  2. Contact the utility companies. Once you have your list, it’s time to contact the utility companies. For each company, you’ll need to provide your name, address, and account number (if you have one). You may also need a driver’s license or passport proof of identification;
  3. Schedule the transfer date. When you contact the utility companies, be sure to schedule the transfer date for a day that’s convenient for you. Remember that it may take a few days for the transfer to be processed, so don’t wait until the last minute;
  4. Notify your landlord. Once you’ve scheduled the transfer date, let your landlord know so they can cancel the service in their name. In most cases, your landlord must provide proof of identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.

You can transfer utilities without problems or delays with these four simple steps. Just be sure to start the process early and gather all the necessary information before starting. And if you have any questions along the way, don’t hesitate to contact the utility companies directly for assistance.

Questions That May Arise During The Utility Transfer Process

Since I am experienced in terms of moving, I have been asked many times lots of different questions about the process, so I have decided to gather and share answers to the following questions:

Are There Any Restrictions On Who Can Transfer Service To Their Name?

In most cases, there are no restrictions on who can transfer utility services to their name. However, some utility companies may require that you have a specific credit score or meet other financial criteria.

What If I Have A Problem With Transferring Utilities?

If you face any problems transferring utilities when renting, the best thing to do is contact the utility company directly. They should be able to help you sort out the issue and get everything sorted out quickly.

What’s The Best Way To Cancel Service When You Move Out Of Your Rental Property?

When you move out of your rental property, you must cancel utility service, so you don’t continue to be billed for it. The best way to do this is to contact the utility company directly and tell them that you’re moving out and would like to cancel the service.

Moving can be stressful, but transfer utilities don’t have to be. These simple tips can make the process much easier and avoid potential problems or delays.

Will Switching Utilities When Moving Affect Credit Score In Any Way?

In most cases, switching utilities when moving will not affect your credit score. However, some utility companies may run a credit check when you apply for service. If this is the case, it’s important to ensure you pay your bills on time and keep your account in good standing to avoid any negative impacts on your credit score.

Bottom Line

Moving can be stressful when switching utilities don’t have to be. These simple tips can make the process much easier and avoid potential problems or delays. And if you have any questions along the way, don’t hesitate to contact the utility companies directly for assistance. Since you moved and finished with utility transferring, it’s high time to clean your new house and enjoy your new place.

Moving Home Hacks

FAQ

How to transfer electric bills to new tenants?

You should:
1. Make a list of the utilities you need;
2. Confirm details with your new landlord;
3. Give notice to your providers;
4. Pay off your bills;
5. Conduct final meter readings and return equipment.

How much does transferring Utilities cost?

Costs differ depending on the utility company and provider. Some businesses will charge a transfer or reconnect fee. The average transfer fee for electricity is $80; the water transfer fee is $150, and gas is – 25$.

Does the title company transfer utilities?  

During a municipal lien search, the title company may discover outstanding utility balances from local governments (for example, a water bill). The buyers’ and sellers’ responsibility is to transfer utilities, but the title company may flag an outstanding balance.

Can I have electricity in two houses when moving?

Yes, many people own multiple homes, each of which requires electricity and other utilities. If you own more than one home, you can have utility services under the same name at both addresses.