Leaving your old home and moving to a new one requires a lot of planning.All of your utility services need to be turned off when you move out.You will need to gather some information, close your accounts one by one, and complete some finishing steps in order to do this properly.If this is done correctly, you will receive a refund of your deposits, and you'll be able to turn on the utilities in your new home.
Step 1: List all the utility accounts.
This could include electric, gas, heating, cooling, water, sewer and trash removal.This may include internet, phone, and cable.You can write down your provider's name and phone number.This will help make sure that no utility is left out, and that you cover all of your bases.
Step 2: You should gather your account information.
You will have to give the company some information when you call them.This usually includes your home address as well as your account number.In some cases, you may need to provide a password or other personal information to verify your identity.Before you call, gather this information.
Step 3: Make sure you are following the contract.
You have to sign a contract at the time of installation for some companies.It's a good idea to figure out where you stand with your contract before calling to cancel.You may be charged a steep fee if you violate your contract.Transferring your service to your new home is possible if this is the case for you.
Step 4: Consider a transfer of services.
If your provider offers service in that area, it is easy to transfer your media service to your new home.If you will be in the same city or state, your electric, water, or trash company may not change.If any of your accounts will qualify for a transfer, you should cancel your service.You can call each company and inquire.They can use your deposit and personal information to make the process of moving much easier.
Step 5: Pick a day.
You don't want to pay for utilities that are not going to be used.You don't want to be stuck at home with no water or electricity.Think about the exact date you want your utility services to stop.You will need about 2 weeks between when you call to cancel and the exact day you want your services to end, so begin thinking about this as early as possible.
Step 6: You can contact each company.
You can inform each company of your move by moving down the list you created.Remember to have any relevant account information or personal information ready when you call.You should call 1-2 weeks prior to your move.
Step 7: Return the equipment.
You will need to return equipment in order to close your account.Ask the company what you should do with the equipment.Drop it off before you move if they say you have to return it in person.If you ask for a receipt, there will be no dispute when you get your deposit.
Step 8: Leave the equipment behind.
Sometimes the company will tell you to leave equipment behind.Sometimes it's the case with cable boxes.You should leave the equipment when you move if this is the case.It will not be packed by mistake if you place it in a safe place.
Step 9: Ask for a reading.
The company should come out and read your meters when you call to cancel your service.This is true for both water and gas.Before you move, this reading will give you final numbers, so that you can be sure of your bill's accuracy.You can use your cell phone to take a photo of your meters, this will give you proof in the case of a dispute.
Step 10: A forwarding address is needed.
You will be asked to provide a forwarding address when you cancel your service.It is important to do this if you will be receiving a deposit or final bill.
Step 11: Pay all outstanding balances.
Your account balance must be zero in order for it to be closed.Inquire about any outstanding balances and pay them at the time of cancellation.When you receive the final bill, make sure to pay it in full.
Step 12: Ask about your deposit.
The payment of a deposit is required by many utility companies.If you don't have an outstanding balance and you have returned all equipment, you should be able to get the deposit back.Speak to your provider about this and make sure they send you a check.
Step 13: The next tenants should have a list.
The people who will be moving into your home after you leave should be given a list of the utility companies and telephone numbers that you used.It is easy to do and it is nice.
Step 14: You should bring important information with you.
It is possible that you will need to follow up with some of these companies in the future, so you should have some information, important phone numbers, and even your final bill.You will be able to access this information after the move if you put it in a safe place.
Step 15: You should check your final bill.
Make sure everything is correct when you receive your final bill.Ensure that your service was terminated on the day you requested, and compare the readings on your bill with the final reading numbers you received.Contact your utility company if there are any discrepancies.