Transferring Your Utilities

Easy Ways To Switch

Changing over all your details with the various utility companies may seem like a daunting task at a time when you’re already busy with details of your house move, but if you allow a bit of time to do this, you’ll have it done without too much hassle. Take advantage of technology and see what can be sorted out online – it’s far easier to use the internet than to wait for ages for someone to answer the phone! You may also find that some companies offer an online discount if you sign up for their services using the internet rather than over the phone.

Take our advice below to make the transition as smooth as possible.

• Plan ahead

Allow between 2 – 4 weeks before your move to contact all the relevant utility companies and change your details. Plan to have essential services disconnected the day after you leave the property – the last thing you want to be doing is loading up in the dark without electricity to see, or water to make a brew! Ask for the utilities in your new property to be ready for action as soon as you move in.

• Do your research

Moving within a local area can be much easier than moving long distance as you can stick with the same suppliers for your gas, electricity, telephone and other utilities, but a long-distance move may mean that you need to rethink which companies to go with. Use this as an opportunity to make a switch to a cheaper or more efficient service – accentuate the positives!

• Check for charges

Don’t leave yourself open to any nasty surprises on your next utility bills! Many companies bill for disconnection and connection charges and you need to be sure that you have factored these into your budget.

• Make a note

Write down all the names, telephone numbers and website details of your old and new utility providers in a notepad which you use for noting all the information needed for your move. Tick off each one when you’ve contacted them to close or open your account or to change your address. Write down the meter readings for gas, electricity and water just before you leave so that you don’t get overcharged on your final bill. If you do decide to call companies, note down the date, time and name of the employee you spoke to.

• Confirm the contract

With so many details to double check, you may slip up on the paperwork! On your list, make a note of when you returned any contracts which you’ve signed, and chase up any outstanding papers.

Take Advantage

Many of us are simply too lazy to save money by shopping around for a better deal on our utilities, but moving house can be the perfect incentive to start again and find out what’s on offer. Just think of what you could buy for your new place if you take the time to switch!