Setting Up Utilities at a New Address: A Phone Call Marathon
Moving into a new home means setting up electricity, gas, water, sewer, trash, internet, and potentially other services. Each utility company has its own setup process, and while larger providers have improved their online systems, the reality is that most people end up making at least three to five phone calls during a move. Municipal utilities (water, sewer, trash) frequently require phone calls because their online systems are outdated or non-existent.
The timing adds stress. You need utilities active on move-in day, which means coordinating start dates across multiple providers while simultaneously packing, changing addresses, forwarding mail, and handling the hundred other moving tasks. One missed call or voicemail-only municipal water department can mean moving into a home without running water.
The process is especially challenging for first-time renters and homeowners who may not know which utility companies serve their new address, what deposits are required, or what identification they need. Here is how to streamline the process.
Why Setting Up Utilities by Phone Is Overwhelming
- !Multiple providers mean multiple phone calls, each with its own hold time and process
- !Municipal utilities often have limited phone hours and outdated systems
- !You need to coordinate start dates across 4-6 different services to align with your move
- !Each provider requires different identification and documentation
- !Deposits, connection fees, and service plans need to be discussed and agreed to over the phone
- !First-time renters may not know which companies serve their specific address
Ways to Set Up Utilities Without Calling
Utility Company Websites
WorksMajor electric and gas companies like Duke Energy, PG&E, and Con Edison offer online service initiation.
Works for large private utilities but municipal services (water, sewer, trash) rarely offer online setup. You still need to identify which companies serve your address. Some require phone verification after online submission.
Moving Concierge Services (Updater, MoveEasy)
WorksThird-party platforms that help coordinate utility setup during a move. Some are partnered with real estate companies.
These services are primarily lead generators and may push you toward specific providers. Not all utilities in your area will be available through them. Municipal services are almost never included. You may receive unwanted sales calls.
Internet Service Provider Websites
WorksMost ISPs like Comcast, AT&T, and Verizon offer online ordering with self-install options.
Online ordering works for standard packages. Bundle discussions, negotiating prices, and scheduling technician visits for complex installations often require a call. Promotional pricing may differ from what is available by phone.
Landlord or Property Manager
LimitedFor renters, the landlord may handle some utilities or provide a list of providers to contact.
Landlords rarely set up utilities on your behalf. They may provide a list, but you still need to contact each provider. Some utilities remain in the landlord name and are included in rent, but this varies widely.
KallyAI Executive Assistant
WorksKallyAI calls each utility provider to set up your services. Give the AI your new address and move-in date, and it handles the calls one by one, coordinating start dates.
Some utility companies may require identity verification that the AI cannot provide. Security deposits may require payment information you need to provide directly. Works best when you identify which providers serve your address beforehand.
Let KallyAI Set Up Your Utilities
Give KallyAI your new address and move-in date. The AI calls each utility company, navigates their setup process, requests your desired start date, and gathers all the information you need about deposits, fees, and account numbers.
List your utilities
Provide your new address, move-in date, and the utility companies you need to set up (electricity, gas, water, trash, internet). If you do not know which companies serve the address, KallyAI can call the city or previous provider to find out.
KallyAI calls each provider
The AI contacts each utility company sequentially, initiating new service at your address with the requested start date.
Details gathered
For each provider, KallyAI collects the account number, start date, deposit amount, first bill estimate, and any action items you need to handle personally.
Move-in ready report
You receive a summary of all utilities with start dates, account numbers, estimated costs, and any remaining steps like paying deposits or providing ID.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I set up all utilities online?
Major electric and gas companies often allow online setup. Municipal water, sewer, and trash services frequently require a phone call or in-person visit. Internet service usually works online for standard installations.
How do I find out which utilities serve my new address?
Your landlord, real estate agent, or the previous resident may know. You can also call the city and ask, or use sites like WhiteFence.com. KallyAI can call the municipal office to identify all required utility providers.
Do I need to set up utilities before I move in?
Ideally, schedule utility activation 1-2 weeks before your move-in date. Electricity and gas are essential on day one. Water is usually already active in apartments but may need activation for houses. Internet installation may take 1-2 weeks if a technician visit is required.
What about security deposits for utilities?
Many utilities require deposits for new customers, typically one to two months of estimated usage. Good credit may waive the deposit. KallyAI will inform you of any deposit requirements during the setup calls.