Utilities Transfer Checklist

How to set up, transfer, or cancel every utility for a move, with the right timing for each.

Published June 23, 2026

Plan & Time the Switch

List every utility account at your current address
Confirm which utilities the new home needs and who provides them
Contact each provider about two weeks before moving
Schedule new-home service to start the day before you arrive
Schedule old-home service to end the day after you leave
A small overlap means you keep power and water during the move itself

Electricity

Transfer or set up the electric account in your name
Confirm the activation date at the new address
Ask whether a deposit or new connection fee applies
Record the final electric meter reading at the old home

Gas & Water

Arrange gas service and confirm the start date
Book any required safety check or pilot-light relight
Transfer or open the water and sewer account
Photograph final gas and water meter readings before you leave

Internet, Cable & Phone

Book the internet installation appointment early
Check whether your current plan is available at the new address
Arrange return or transfer of any rented modem or set-top box
Confirm the cable and phone service start date
Have a backup hotspot for the first day in case install is delayed

Trash, Recycling & Other

Set up or transfer trash and recycling collection
Find out collection days and any bin rental at the new home
Arrange propane, oil or any specialty service if needed
Transfer or cancel a home security monitoring contract

Close Out the Old Address

Confirm cancellation dates and final bills for every account
Return any equipment and keep the receipts
Provide a forwarding address for closing statements
Save photos of all final meter readings with dates
Keep them until each final bill is confirmed correct

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A utilities transfer checklist covers setting up, transferring, or canceling every service tied to a move — electricity, gas, water, internet and cable, and trash — plus the timing for each so the new home has power on arrival and the old one is closed out cleanly.

The key to a smooth switch is timing: schedule service to start at the new place a day before you move, and end at the old place the day after, so you are never without essentials.

Work through each utility once for the old address and once for the new one, recording account numbers and final meter readings as you go.

Great for renters, families and first-time movers. Print this checklist or download the PDF and check off each utility as it is arranged.

FAQ

When should I transfer utilities when moving?

Contact providers about two weeks ahead. Schedule service to start at the new home the day before you move in and to end at the old home the day after you move out, so you are never left without power, water or internet.

Should I transfer or cancel and restart utilities?

If your current provider serves the new address, a transfer is usually faster and avoids new deposits. If you are moving outside their area, cancel the old account and set up fresh service with a local provider.

Why should I record final meter readings?

A photographed meter reading on the day you leave proves exactly how much you used, so your final bill is accurate and you are not charged for the next occupant's usage.

Which utility should I arrange first?

Book internet and cable first — installation appointments fill up quickly and may require a technician visit. Power, gas and water can usually be switched on remotely with less notice.

Is this utilities transfer checklist printable?

Yes. Print it or download the PDF and check off each service for both your old and new address.