How to Set Up Utilities When Moving Into a New Apartment
Moving into a new apartment is exciting, but one task that often slips through the cracks is setting up utilities. Arriving on move-in day without electricity or internet can quickly turn a happy moment into a stressful one. The good news is that with a simple checklist and a little planning, you can make sure everything is ready before you unlock the door to your new home.
1. Review Your Lease and Confirm Responsibilities
Before contacting any providers, check your lease or ask your property manager which utilities are included in rent and which are tenant-paid. Every building is different, and knowing this ahead of time prevents duplicate accounts or surprise bills.
Typical utilities to confirm:
- Electricity
- Gas / Heat
- Water & Sewer
- Internet / Cable
- Trash & Recycling
If you’re still apartment-hunting or planning a future move, browsing current listings can also help you compare what utilities are commonly included. You can view available units on our Vacancies page
2. Schedule Electricity and Gas First
Electricity and gas are the most essential services because they power lighting, appliances, and climate control. Aim to schedule activation at least 5–7 days before your move-in date so you’re not left waiting.
In Chicago, the primary providers are:
- ComEd (Electricity)
- Peoples Gas (Natural Gas)
You’ll usually need:
- Your full address and unit number
- Move-in date
- Identification
- A payment method or deposit if required
Setting these up early ensures your apartment is fully functional on day one.
3. Arrange Internet and Cable Installation
Internet appointments can book out quickly — especially at the beginning and end of the month when most leases start. If you work remotely, stream entertainment, or rely on smart home devices, scheduling ahead is critical.
Common Chicago-area providers include:
Even if you plan to compare packages later, locking in an installation window early can prevent service gaps.
4. Confirm Water, Trash, and Building Services
In many apartment communities, water and trash services are either included in rent or billed through the building. Your lease or management contact will typically clarify this. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to confirm before move-in day so you know what to expect on your first monthly statement.
For renter guides, neighborhood tips, and practical apartment advice, you can also explore the NXT Realty Blog for additional resources.
5. Update Your Mailing Address
Don’t forget to update your address with banks, subscription services, and delivery platforms. You can also set up official mail forwarding through the United States Postal Service.
Completing this step early prevents missed bills, lost packages, and unnecessary delays.
6. Keep a Utility Checklist
Creating a simple checklist helps you stay organized and prevents last-minute scrambling. Track:
- Account numbers
- Activation dates
- Confirmation emails
- Monthly billing cycles
- Customer service contacts
Keeping everything in one place makes it easier to manage payments and troubleshoot issues later.
7. Know Who to Contact for Questions
Understanding who manages your building can make communication smoother if you ever need clarification on billing, service access, or move-in coordination. Learning about your property management team ahead of time can provide peace of mind and help you settle in more confidently.
You can learn more about our team and management approach on our About Us page.
Final Thoughts
Setting up utilities may not be the most glamorous part of moving, but it’s one of the most important. Confirming responsibilities, scheduling services early, and keeping your information organized will help you walk into your new apartment with everything running smoothly from day one.
A little preparation goes a long way — and makes the first night in your new home comfortable, connected, and stress-free.
