Two to four weeks before responsibility
Lead times vary. Start early without changing another occupant's account.
- List electricity, water, sewer or septic, internet, trash, and any community-managed services.
- Check the lease or closing documents for responsibility dates.
- Use the ZIP lookup as a shortlist and confirm the complete address.
- Ask providers about lead time, deposits, appointments, and documents.
During the final week
Keep service confirmations, but do not put account numbers, identification, or payment details into a public checklist.
- Confirm start dates and installation windows.
- Arrange authorized property access.
- Save electric outage and utility-emergency contacts.
- Find the current trash schedule and moving-box rules.
On arrival and after the first bill
Do not manipulate sealed meters or unfamiliar equipment. Report missing, unsafe, leaking, or repeatedly tripping systems through the appropriate provider, property manager, or qualified professional.
- Confirm essential service is active.
- Record visible meter readings privately when appropriate.
- Check the service address, dates, deposits, and approved charges on each first statement.
- Store provider and outage contacts where the household can reach them.