How to Transfer Utilities When Moving Rentals
4 min read.
Moving to a new rental can be exciting, but it also comes with a lengthy checklist of tasks to complete. One crucial step that often gets overlooked is transferring your utilities. Whether it’s hydro, gas, internet, or water, ensure everything is properly set up to facilitate a smooth transition into your new home.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the basics of transferring utilities in Ontario so you can avoid extra fees, service interruptions, or confusion on move-in day.
Step 1: Confirm Which Utilities You’re Responsible For
In Ontario, landlords sometimes include utilities like water or heat in the rent, while others expect tenants to set up their own accounts. Review your lease agreement carefully to determine which utilities you’re responsible for transferring. Standard utilities in rentals include:
Electricity (Hydro): Usually through your local hydro provider (e.g., Hydro One, Toronto Hydro, etc.)
Natural Gas: Often Enbridge Gas or EPCOR, depending on your location.
Water: Sometimes included in rent, but if not, it’s billed through the municipality.
Internet & Cable: Private service providers like Bell, Rogers, etc.
Step 2: Contact Providers Before Moving
Reach out to your current utility providers at least two weeks prior to your move. Let them know your move-out date and provide your new address. More companies in Ontario let you transfer service online or over the phone. This way, your old account closes on your move-out day, and your new account starts the day you move in.
Step 3: Provide Final Meter Readings
For hydro and gas, you’ll likely need to submit a final meter reading on move-out day. This ensures you’re only billed for the utilities you need. If you don’t provide readings, the company may estimate your final bill, which can sometimes result in additional charges.
Step 4: Set Up Utilities at Your New Rental
Once your move-in date is confirmed, schedule utilities to start the same day. Some providers may require a deposit if you’ve ever had an account with them before. Setting things up in advance ensures you have heat, power, and internet ready as soon as you arrive.
References
Nomad. (2022, December 8). How to transfer utilities to a new tenant (The right way). Nomad. https://nomadlease.com/blog/transfers-utilities-to-new-tenant
How to seamlessly transfer your utilities in Toronto?. Royal York Property Management. (n.d.). https://royalyorkpropertymanagement.ca/news-article/how-to-seamlessly-transfer-your-utilities-in-toronto?srsltid=AfmBOoohg7MNtEHZZmXRDK-WOvUSOMEfW9ttlmEzvd9frqCqsMz3ZBAJ
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