A Simple Guide to Setting Up Your Apartment Utilities

Setting up utilities is one of those move-in tasks that's easy to put off until the last minute, and then suddenly you're moving boxes into a dark apartment with no internet. A little planning ahead makes the whole process painless.

Know What You're Responsible For

Before you do anything else, check your lease to see which utilities are included in rent and which ones you need to set up yourself. Some communities include water, trash, or even all utilities. Others leave everything to the resident. Your leasing office can confirm exactly what falls on you if it's not spelled out clearly.

Start Early

Give yourself at least a week or two before move-in to get accounts set up. Some providers, especially internet and cable companies, need lead time to schedule installation. Waiting until the day you move in often means going without service for the first few days.

Electricity and Gas

Contact your local utility provider to start service in your name, effective your move-in date. You'll typically need your new address, move-in date, and a form of ID. Some providers also require a deposit, especially if you don't have an established account history with them.

Water and Trash

In some communities, water and trash are billed through the property rather than a separate municipal account. Check with your leasing office to find out whether this applies to you and how it's billed.

Internet and Cable

Research providers available at your address before move-in day. Availability varies more than people expect, even within the same city. Schedule installation as early as your provider allows, and ask about self-install options if you want service active the moment you move in rather than waiting for a technician.

Renter's Insurance

Not technically a utility, but it usually needs to be active before you get your keys. Most policies are inexpensive and can be set up online in a few minutes. Keep your policy number handy for your leasing office.

A Simple Move-In Utility Checklist

Two weeks before: Confirm what's included in rent, research internet providers, start your renter's insurance quote

One week before: Set up electric and gas service for your move-in date, schedule internet installation, confirm your renter's insurance start date

Move-in day: Confirm all services are active, test outlets and appliances, keep account numbers and provider contact info somewhere easy to find

Utility FAQs

What if a utility isn't working when I move in? Contact the provider directly if it's in your name. If it's a utility the property manages, reach out to your onsite team.

Can I switch providers after move-in? Usually yes, as long as the alternative provider services your building. Check availability before committing to a switch.

What happens if I forget to set up a utility before move-in? Contact the provider as soon as possible. Most can activate service within a day or two, though you may go without it briefly in the meantime.

If you have questions about utilities at your ORLO community, reach out to your onsite team or check your resident portal.