The exact steps vary by province, municipality, utility, landlord, and service provider. The best approach is to start early, document every confirmation, and avoid assuming one service automatically follows another.
This checklist is designed for Canadian households, renters, and homeowners.
Electricity
Start, stop, transfer, or open an account as required.
Natural gas
Confirm start date, meter access, and safety requirements.
Water
Often municipal, condo, or landlord-related.
Internet
Confirm availability before move-in day.
Equipment
Return modems, routers, set-top boxes, or meters when required.
Final bills
Watch for partial-month charges and credits.
Before move-in
Confirm which utilities you must arrange directly and which are handled by a landlord, condo corporation, municipality, or property manager.
For electricity and natural gas, set up start dates before the move. For internet, confirm availability at the exact address, not just the city or neighbourhood.
On moving day
Record meter readings if applicable and safe to do so. Take photos where appropriate. Keep account numbers and confirmation emails handy.
Do not assume the previous occupant’s account remains active. Service continuity depends on local rules and account setup.
After the move
Check the first bill for start date, partial charges, deposits, setup fees, meter readings, equipment charges, and taxes.
If something looks wrong, contact the utility or provider early while the move details are fresh.
Moving utility checklist
| Service | Before moving | After moving |
|---|---|---|
| Electricity | Open/transfer account | Check start date and meter reading |
| Natural gas | Open/transfer account | Check safety/access and first bill |
| Water | Confirm municipal/landlord process | Check final or first charges |
| Internet | Book installation/transfer | Test speed and Wi-Fi |
| Mobile | Update billing address if needed | Check coverage at new location |
| Old services | Schedule cancellation | Return equipment and keep receipts |
Move planning checklist
- Create a list of every utility and service.
- Confirm exact new address and unit number.
- Schedule start and stop dates.
- Record meter readings where applicable.
- Keep confirmation numbers.
- Return old equipment with proof.
- Review final and first bills.
Related guides
For broader home-cost context, see Property Costs Explained. For repair and replacement planning, see Repair Costs Explained. These related guides and should be used only where their topics are relevant.
FAQ
How early should I arrange utilities?
Start several weeks ahead where possible, especially for internet installation or utility account setup.
Should I take meter photos?
Where safe and appropriate, photos can help document move-in or move-out readings.
Why check the first bill carefully?
Move-related bills often include partial periods, deposits, setup fees, credits, or equipment charges.