Choosing a Gas Plan When Moving into a New Home

Moving into a new home is one of life’s biggest transitions and one of the easiest times to overlook your utilities. Amid the packing and address changes, it’s tempting to let your gas connection “just happen.” But choosing the right gas plan when moving can make a big difference in your comfort and monthly costs.

Moving to a new gas plan for many people means locking in a better rate and lowering monthly bills. It also means clearer terms, predictable budgeting, and customer support that actually helps. But before all of that there’s a lot that needs to be studied.

Whether you’re transferring service, setting up a new account, or comparing providers in a deregulated state, understanding your timeline and options ensures your home is warm and ready from day one.

Step 1: Find Out If You’re in a Deregulated Area

Before setting up service, the first step is to learn whether your new address falls within one of the gas deregulation states.

In regulated states, your local utility handles everything delivery, billing, and rates. In deregulated markets, however, you can choose from multiple natural gas providers that compete for your business.

Here’s how to check:

• Visit Get Home Utilities’ Natural Gas page.
• Use the ZIP code search tool to see whether your area allows customer choice.
• Review the provider list and compare rates, plans, and contract options.

If you’ve never shopped for energy before, it’s similar to picking a cell phone plan you choose the rate structure and terms that fit your usage habits.

Step 2: Decide Whether to Transfer or Start Fresh

If you’re moving locally and staying within the same utility or provider’s service area, you may be able to transfer your existing gas plan this can simplify moving to a new gas plan.

• Transferring service: Contact your provider about two weeks before moving. They’ll schedule a stop at your old address and a start at your new one.
• Starting a new account: If your provider doesn’t serve your new location or if you’re moving to a deregulated market you’ll need to open a new account when moving to a new gas plan.

It’s also a good time to reassess whether your current plan still fits your needs. For example, if your last home had higher winter usage, your average natural gas cost might drop in a smaller or better-insulated space.

Step 3: Compare Plans and Rates

Once you know your options, compare available plans. You’ll often find choices between fixed vs variable gas rates:

• Fixed rate plans provide predictable bills throughout your contract term.
• Variable rate plans fluctuate with market conditions and can save you money when prices dip.

When moving, many households prefer fixed-rate plans for stability especially during the first year of ownership when budgeting matters most.

Also, check for:

• Contract terms (length, renewal options)
• Enrollment fees or security deposits
• Green energy or carbon-neutral add-ons

If you’ve learned to read your natural gas bill, you’ll recognize familiar sections like supply charges and delivery fees. This helps you make direct comparisons between providers.

Thinking of moving to a new place? Check out the moving services page now.

Step 4: Schedule Connection in Advance

Timing is everything. Most utilities recommend scheduling your start service appointment 7–10 business days before your move-in date.

Typical setup steps include:

• Inspection and meter reading: Ensures accuracy from day one.
• Deposit payment: May apply for new accounts based on credit history.
• Confirmation call or email: Confirms your connection date.

Avoid waiting until the last minute. During peak moving seasons, appointment slots fill up fast and nobody wants to move into a cold house.

Step 5: Check Your First Bill Carefully

Your first bill at a new address can tell you a lot. Once it arrives:

• Verify your service start date and meter reading.
• Compare your supply and delivery charges to your contract terms.
• Track your therm usage for future reference.

This first month sets your baseline. As you settle in, you’ll start to see how insulation, appliances, and weather affect your average natural gas cost.

If something doesn’t look right, contact your provider’s customer service especially in deregulated markets, where billing often includes both the utility and supplier.

Moving Between Regulated and Deregulated States

If you’re moving from a regulated area (like the Carolinas or Washington) to a deregulated one (like Georgia or Ohio), the process feels different at first but it’s straightforward.

In deregulated markets:

• You’ll select your natural gas provider before moving in.
• The local utility will still deliver the gas safely.
• You’ll receive one bill listing both supply and delivery charges.

Conversely, if you’re moving from a deregulated to a regulated state, you’ll no longer need to shop around your local utility automatically provides your service.

Understanding which system applies helps you set realistic expectations about cost, billing, and setup timelines.

Quick Checklist for Moving Your Gas Service

2–3 weeks before moving:

• Verify if your new address is in a deregulated market.
• Review your current contract’s terms for transfer or termination.

10–14 days before moving:

• Use your ZIP code to compare natural gas providers and rates.
• Choose a plan and schedule a start service date.

Moving week:

• Confirm meter readings at both properties.
• Keep documentation of your new account details.

After moving:

• Monitor your first bill for accuracy.
• Track your usage over time to ensure your plan fits your household’s size and habits.

Check out the Natural Gas page today to compare plans, lock in stability, or explore flexible options that suit your new home and moving timeline.

Final Thoughts

Moving into a new home is the perfect time to take control of your utilities especially your natural gas. With a little planning, you can avoid last-minute surprises, secure better rates, and set up your new account smoothly.

Whether you’re in one of the gas deregulation states or under a regulated system, using a zip code search to compare natural gas providers ensures you find the best deal for your new household.

Understanding your setup timeline, reading your bill, and reviewing your fixed vs variable gas rate options keeps your energy reliable and affordable long after move-in day.

Stay Ahead of Price Swings

Get settled the smart way. Visit Get Home Utilities’ Natural Gas page today to explore providers, set up your new service, and make your next move energy-efficient from the start.