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Setting Up Utilities In Philadelphia And Suburbs

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Switching over your utility accounts is something all of us have to do whether we are renting or buying. Fortunately creating and transferring accounts can be done mostly online. Here are a few tips that will help you get your lights on, and water hot, in no time. 

  1. It is tempting to schedule everything once you know you’re moving. However, switching water, gas, electric, and cable should happen close to your move-in day. We recommend starting the process about one to two weeks prior to. 

  2. Get your papers organized. You will need your new address, name on the lease or deed, and your account numbers handy.  

  3. You won’t need it, but we like to err on the side of caution. Once you have paid your old bills, keep proof of payment in a file nearby in case anything comes up with your landlord, sellers, or buyers. 

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Philadelphia County 

  • Water: Your name won’t be updated on your bill until your deed is recorded by the city.  The title company implements that process, then it’s in the hands of the office of Deeds and Records. It’s going to take at least 2 billing cycles to update, post covid it is taking up to 6 months. When you receive a bill, whether it has your name on it or not, it belongs to your home’s account and is yours to pay. Your first bill will most likely include usage for days you didn’t own the house. Remember that the title company reconciled the account at closing, paid the seller's current bills, and credited you for the usage and rents during those days of the billing cycle that occurred before your ownership. In other words, you won’t be overpaying. Check out the FAQ page on Phila.Gov for more information. 

  • Gas: If you have an existing account you can simply make a switch, close an account, or register for a new one online at pgworks.com

  • Electric: You can make changes to, start, or stop an account online at PECO.com 

  • Cable/Internet: The switch of a cable account from the prior occupant to a new one can’t happen until the old account holder has canceled theirs. You have your choice of internet service. Often when moving you can call your current provider for an easy switch. Or maybe it is time to try a new company (like the small, private operator, Philly Whisper!) and take advantage of a new client special! 

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Philadelphia Surrounding Suburbs (Pennsylvania)

Things get a bit tricker in the various counties surrounding Philadelphia. Some townships within the county have local providers while others use a national company. We have put together a general guide to help. For addresses outside Philadelphia County instructions are on the second page of your settlement notice that you will receive approximately 2 weeks prior to closing.  

Montgomery County

Delaware County 

Bucks County

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