How Do You Start New Gas or Electricity Service at a Home or Business?

Starting gas or electricity service is one of the first steps when moving into a new home or business location. Your utility is assigned by your address, and each one has its own setup process, timelines, and requirements. Once your service is active, you may be able to choose an energy supplier and plan if you live in a deregulated area. Comparing rates and plans from multiple suppliers can help you find a lower rate.

What Utilities Do You Need Before You Move In?

Having electricity and natural gas already set up before move-in day ensures that your lights, heat, and appliances work right away. Some homes and businesses don't need natural gas and run on electricity alone. You may also need to set up your water, sewer, trash pickup, and internet. These additional services are usually set up through your city or a local company.

So, what utilities does your home or business need, exactly? It depends on where you're moving. Your city, building type, and local utility company will determine what you'll set up and who you need to call.

How to Find the Utility Company for Your Address

Utilities are determined by your address, so you can't choose who delivers your power or gas. The electric company for your address is simply the local utility that serves your area. Utilities websites usually list the cities or ZIP codes they serve. You can also ask your landlord, property manager, or the previous owner. If you bought the property, your closing documents may also have this information.

5 Easy Steps to Set Up Electricity and Natural Gas

Once you know your utility, setting up electricity or natural gas is a quick process. Most utilities let you start service online or by phone. Provide your personal information and payment details as well as the date you'd like the lights turned on. It's smart to choose either your actual move-in day or the day before, so you aren't left in the dark. Make sure to save your confirmation number and double check that everything works when you arrive.

Need power fast? Some utilities offer same-day electric service if you request it early enough. Availability depends on your location and whether the property is already connected to the grid.

What Information Will the Utility Company Ask For?

To turn on electricity or natural gas, most utilities will ask for your service address, start date, and a valid photo ID. Depending on your state, they might also ask for your Social Security number to run a credit check and determine if you need to pay a deposit. Make sure to have a payment method ready just in case there's a deposit or connection fee. If you're opening a business account, you'll need to have the legal business name, tax ID number, and an authorized contact ready too.

Is Setting Up Commercial Electricity & Gas Different?

Setting up commercial electric service is pretty similar to residential service. It follows the same basic steps to create a business electricity or natural gas account, but you'll also need to provide information about your company. Most utilities will ask for your business's legal name, federal tax ID (EIN), and your business's structure. If your business doesn't have a credit history, you may be required to pay a larger deposit or provide a personal guarantee. If your company is building or expanding, make sure to plan extra time for new meters to be installed.

Utility Company vs. Energy Supplier: Know the Difference

In deregulated energy markets, your utility and your energy supplier play different roles, which is why both entities typically show up on your monthly energy bills.

Power's On? Time to Compare Energy Plans!

After your utility service is active, you may be able to compare energy suppliers and pick your own plan. Energy choice varies by state, so you might be able to shop for electricity, natural gas, or both. Shopping around can help you lock in lower energy rates than your utility's default offer and find a plan that better fits your budget.

At Price To Compare, we make it easy to compare home or business electricity prices online. Simply enter your ZIP code, confirm your utility, and compare plans side-by-side. Our experts can also help business owners compare commercial energy plans too, with personalized recommendations to help boost your bottom line.

FAQs About Setting Up Electricity & Natural Gas Service

Do I need to pay a deposit to start electricity service?

Whether you need to pay a deposit to start new services will depend on your utility and your credit history. Many utilities run a credit check and may ask for a deposit if you're a new customer or have a limited payment history. You may be able to waive the deposit by providing a letter showing on-time payments from your previous utility.

How do I know if I'm in a deregulated energy market?

You can check your state's public utility commission website to determine if your state has an energy choice program. For a quick and easy answer, you can also enter you ZIP code into the Price to Compare marketplace to see if plans are available in your area.

Can I get same day electric service?

Some utilities can turn on electricity the same day, especially if you contact them early, and your property is already connected to the grid. Availability varies, and some utilities may charge an extra fee for rush requests. If your property is still under construction or needs a meter installed, same-day electric service might not be available.

How far in advance should I set up utilities before moving?

Try to set up your utilities at least one to two weeks before you move. This gives your utility enough time to process your request and schedule any needed visits. Businesses and new construction should plan even further ahead to avoid delays.

Can I switch energy suppliers if I’m renting?

As long as the utility bill is in your name, you can switch energy suppliers as a renter. However, if your landlord pays utilities as part of your rent, they're the one who chooses the supplier. Review your lease agreement or contact your landlord to confirm who is in charge of the utilities.

Is starting electricity service in Texas different than other states?

In Texas, starting new electricity service is a little bit different. You start by choosing a retail energy provider first, and that provider activates service with your local utility. You'll also need your ESID (Electric Service Identifier), a unique number tied to your address. However, if you live in a regulated region served by a city-owned utility or electric co-op, you'll set up service directly through your utility.