Moving into a new apartment in Missoula is an exciting adventure, but amidst the packing and organizing, there’s an essential task that you can’t overlook: transferring your utilities. Ensuring that your electricity, gas, water, and other services are ready for use the day you move in will make your transition much smoother. This guide will walk you through the steps to successfully transfer utilities when moving into a Missoula apartment, so you can settle into your new home with ease.
1. Make a List of Necessary Utilities
The first step in transferring utilities is identifying which services you’ll need to transfer or set up in your new apartment. Common utilities include:
- Electricity
- Natural Gas
- Water and Sewer
- Internet and Cable
- Trash and Recycling Services
You may also need to transfer or set up services like home security systems or a landline phone if you use one.
2. Gather Information About Your New Apartment
Before you can transfer utilities, you’ll need some key details about your new apartment in Missoula. Gather the following information:
- The exact address of your new apartment, including the unit number.
- The move-in date when you’ll need the utilities to be active.
- Contact information for the property management company or landlord in case you need specific instructions or details.
Additionally, find out if your new apartment complex has any special arrangements for utilities. For example, some apartment communities include water or trash services in the rent, which means you won’t need to set them up separately.
3. Contact Your Current Utility Providers
Once you have your list of utilities and the necessary details about your new apartment, it’s time to contact your current utility providers. Let them know that you’re moving and need to transfer or cancel your services.
Steps to Take:
- Notify Providers in Advance: Aim to notify your utility providers at least two weeks before your move. This gives them enough time to process your request and ensures that services will be activated on time.
- Set a Service Termination Date: Schedule the termination of services at your current address for the day after you move out. This way, you’ll still have access to utilities on moving day but won’t be paying for services after you’ve left.
- Provide Your New Address: For services that you’ll be transferring (like internet or cable), provide your new address and schedule the activation for your move-in date.
Key Providers to Contact:
- Electricity: Contact NorthWestern Energy, the primary electricity provider in Missoula, to transfer or set up your electric service.
- Natural Gas: NorthWestern Energy also provides natural gas service, so you can handle both gas and electricity with one call if applicable.
- Water and Sewer: The City of Missoula handles water and sewer services. Check with your property manager to see if you need to set this up or if it’s included in your rent.
- Trash and Recycling: Missoula offers several options for trash and recycling services, including Republic Services and Garden City Recycling. Determine if your apartment complex provides these services, or if you need to set them up yourself.
4. Set Up New Utilities
If you’re moving to Missoula from out of town, or if your current utility providers don’t service your new address, you’ll need to set up new utilities. This process is similar to transferring services, but instead of ending a service at one location and starting it at another, you’ll be starting fresh.
Steps to Take:
- Research Providers: Use online resources or ask your property manager for recommendations on local utility providers.
- Schedule Activation: Contact the providers at least two weeks before your move to schedule the activation of your utilities. Make sure the services will be active on your move-in date to avoid any gaps.
- Create Online Accounts: Many utility companies allow you to manage your services online. Setting up online accounts with your providers will make it easier to pay bills, track usage, and contact customer service if needed.
Important Considerations:
- Deposits and Fees: Some utility companies may require a deposit or charge a fee for setting up new services, especially if you’re a new customer. Be prepared to cover these costs.
- Service Installation: For services like internet and cable, you may need to schedule a technician to visit your apartment and install the necessary equipment. Be sure to arrange this in advance to avoid delays.
5. Keep Track of Important Dates
Throughout the process of transferring and setting up utilities, it’s crucial to keep track of important dates. These include:
- Service termination dates at your current address.
- Activation dates for utilities at your new apartment.
- Appointment dates for any in-person installations or service visits.
Using a calendar or a moving checklist can help you stay organized and ensure that you don’t miss any critical deadlines.
6. Confirm Activation Before Move-In Day
A few days before your move, contact your utility providers to confirm that everything is set up and ready for your move-in date. This final step will give you peace of mind and allow you to focus on the move itself without worrying about potential utility issues.
What to Confirm:
- Electricity and Gas: Make sure your electricity and gas services are active and ready to go on your move-in day.
- Water and Sewer: Confirm that your water service is connected, so you’ll have running water when you arrive.
- Internet and Cable: If you’ve scheduled a technician visit, confirm the appointment time and ensure you’ll be home to let them in.
7. Update Your Address
As part of the moving process, don’t forget to update your address with your utility providers, so you continue to receive bills and important correspondence. Additionally, update your address with other important institutions, such as your bank, employer, and the post office.
Conclusion
Transferring utilities when moving into a Missoula apartment might seem like a daunting task, but with proper planning and organization, it can be a smooth and straightforward process. By making a list of necessary utilities, contacting your current and new providers in advance, and keeping track of key dates, you’ll ensure that your new home is ready for you on move-in day. Taking these steps will help you enjoy a seamless transition into your new Missoula apartment, allowing you to focus on settling in and making the most of your new space.