Set Up Water Service When Moving: A Step-By-Step Guide

Moving comes with endless tasks boxes, addresses, service transfers but one step you cannot overlook is how to Set Up Water Service When Moving. Whether you’re renting your first apartment or buying a new home, activating water correctly ensures clean, safe, uninterrupted service from day one.

And if you followed the previous guidance on locating your Water Shutoff Valve, understanding Valve Location, and practicing Emergency Preparedness, you’re already ahead. Knowing how to control water flow will help you avoid leaks on move-in day and verify that everything is in working order before your household settles in.

This guide walks you through creating a New Account, completing a Transfer, paying any Deposit, and taking an accurate Meter Reading the day you arrive all essential steps for preventing billing issues and supporting strong Leak Prevention habits in your new home.

Step 1: Identify Your Water Provider Before Moving Day

Water service varies depending on the city or county, and unlike electricity or internet, you cannot always choose your provider. To avoid delays:

• Check your city’s website.
• Ask your realtor or property manager.
• Confirm whether the home uses a municipal utility or private company.

Knowing who supplies your water early lets you schedule a start date and ensures the system is ready by the time you pick up the keys.

Step 2: Open a New Account

Most providers allow online setup, and you’ll usually need:

• your move-in date
• contact information
• identification
• property address
• whether you own or rent
• Social Security number (sometimes for deposit evaluation)

Creating a New Account ahead of time prevents arriving to a home with no running water an unpleasant surprise after a long day of moving boxes.

Step 3: Check Whether You Need a Deposit

Some utilities require a Deposit depending on your credit history or payment record. This may apply if:

• you’ve never had an account with them
• your credit score is low
• you previously missed payments with another provider
• the property is a rental

Deposits are often refundable after 12 months of on-time payments. Some companies waive the deposit if you enroll in autopay or provide proof of responsible payment history elsewhere.

Step 4: Schedule a Service Start or Transfer

If you’re moving from one home to another within the same service area, you may be able to complete a Transfer instead of opening a new account. Transfers:

• preserve your payment history
• may reduce or eliminate deposits
• simplify paperwork

If the home has been vacant, the provider may need to restore service from the street or reactivate the main valve at the meter.

Step 5: Locate & Inspect Your Water Shutoff Valve Immediately

Before running faucets or starting appliances, find your Water Shutoff Valve. Because you already understand Valve Location and the importance of Emergency Preparedness, this step builds on your existing knowledge.

Confirm the valve:

• turns smoothly
• is not corroded
• is easy to reach
• is clearly labeled (add a label yourself if needed)

This is essential for Leak Prevention a stuck or hidden shutoff valve can turn a minor malfunction into major damage.

Step 6: Take Your Own Move-In Meter Reading

On move-in day, before anyone uses water, record your Meter Reading. This protects you from being billed for usage from the previous occupants.

Take:

• a clear photo of the meter
• a close-up of the numerical reading
• the meter ID number

Send this photo to the utility through email or your online portal. This simple step prevents disputes and gives you a clean starting point for future bill tracking.

Step 7: Test All Fixtures for Leaks or Issues

Walk around the home and test:

• faucets
• toilets
• showers
• irrigation systems
• outdoor spigots

If anything drips, runs, or behaves unusually, turn off the Water Shutoff Valve and inspect further. Fixing issues instantly supports long-term Leak Prevention and avoids a shocking first bill.

Step 8: Review Rates, Fees & Billing Cycles

Water bills often include:

• base service charges
• consumption tiers
• sewer charges
• stormwater fees

Knowing the billing structure in advance helps you plan usage and avoid tier increases. If you previously used conservation upgrades like low-flow fixtures, rainwater harvesting, or greywater systems now is the perfect time to integrate them into the new home once water is active.

Step 9: Set Up Alerts & Online Tools

Most providers offer:

• email/text alerts for high usage
• leak notifications
• online autopay
• paperless billing
• outage notifications

These tools make it easier to stay informed, especially during the already chaotic moving period.

Check out the Water Page today to activate service, access moving checklists, and learn how to protect your home with proper meter readings and leak-prevention practices.

Final Thoughts

Successfully Set Up Water Service When Moving is more than just turning the tap on. It’s about establishing accurate billing, protecting your home from leaks, and ensuring your household has safe, consistent access from the very first day.

With a confirmed New Account, clear Meter Reading, managed Deposit, and a working Water Shutoff Valve, your home is prepared both for daily use and unexpected emergencies. Combine these steps with strong conservation habits and you’ll start your new chapter with confidence, efficiency, and peace of mind.

Stay Ahead of Utility Choices

Visit Get Home Utilities’ Water Page Compare utilities, understand local regulations, and streamline your move-in process with trusted guidance from GHU.