How to Set Up Utilities in a New Home: Complete Checklist

How do I set up utilities in a new home? This is one of the most common questions I hear from home buyers in South Jersey. Whether you are closing on your first home in Mount Laurel, moving into a new construction in Moorestown, or downsizing to a condo in Medford, getting your utilities transferred or started is a critical step that needs to happen before you move in.

Setting up utilities in a new home is straightforward, but it requires planning. Most utility providers need 1 to 2 weeks advance notice, and some require deposits or proof of identity. Missing a step can mean arriving to a dark, cold, or disconnected home on moving day. This guide covers every utility you need to set up in South Jersey, who to call, when to start, and what you need to have ready.

Why Setting Up Utilities Early Matters

Your closing date is your target. Ideally, you want utilities active in your name on closing day so you can inspect the home, begin cleaning, and schedule deliveries. If you wait until the week of closing, you risk overlapping with the seller's service termination date or finding that no appointment slots are available for installation.

The rule of thumb: start the process 2 to 3 weeks before your closing date. This gives you enough time to gather documents, submit requests, and handle any surprises like deposit requirements or address verification issues. For internet and cable, start even earlier, installation appointments can book up 2 to 4 weeks out in many South Jersey communities.

Ask Bob: How do I set up utilities in a new home?

Complete Utility Setup Checklist

Here is every utility and service you need to set up for a new home in South Jersey. Bookmark this list and check each one off as you go:

• Electric and Gas (PSE&G or South Jersey Gas)
• Water and Sewer (NJ American Water, municipal provider, or well/septic)
• Internet and Cable (Xfinity, Verizon Fios, Optimum, T-Mobile Home Internet)
• Trash and Recycling (Municipal pickup or private hauler)
• Home Security (ADT, Ring, SimpliSafe, Vivint)
• Lawn Care and Snow Removal (if applicable)
• Pest Control (if needed)
• Pool Service (if applicable)

The first three are non-negotiable. The rest depend on your home and lifestyle. Let us walk through each one.

PSE&G: Electric and Gas in South Jersey

PSE&G (Public Service Electric and Gas) is the primary provider for electric and natural gas across most of Burlington County and South Jersey. If you are moving into a home that already has PSE&G service, you can typically transfer the account into your name online or by phone in about 10 to 15 minutes.

What you need to set up PSE&G service:

• Your full name, Social Security number, and date of birth
• New address and move-in date
• Previous address (for account history)
• Landlord contact information (if renting)
• Valid email address for online account access

Deposit requirements: PSE&G may require a deposit based on your credit history. The amount is typically equal to 2/12 of your estimated annual bill. If you have good credit or can provide a reference from a previous utility provider, the deposit may be waived. Deposits are refunded with interest after 12 months of on-time payments.

Timing: You can start service online or by phone up to 30 days before your move-in date. For a simple transfer, PSE&G activates the service on your requested date with no appointment needed. If the home has never had service or service was disconnected, a technician visit may be required, which adds 3 to 5 business days.

Contact PSE&G: Call 1-800-436-7734 or visit pseg.com to start service. Online setup is available 24/7.

Alternate provider: Some areas of South Jersey are served by South Jersey Gas for natural gas. If you are in a town like Vineland, Millville, or Bridgeton, check your provider. Most of Burlington County falls under PSE&G.

Water Service: NJ American Water or Local Provider

Water service is handled differently depending on where you live in South Jersey.

New Jersey American Water serves many communities in Burlington County and the surrounding area. If your home is served by NJ American Water, you can set up water service online or by phone. You will need your name, Social Security number, address, move-in date, and a valid email. A deposit may be required based on credit history, usually around $75 to $150.

Municipal water: Some towns operate their own water utilities. For example, Moorestown has its own municipal water department. If you are moving into a town with municipal water, contact the town's utility department directly. Your real estate agent or the seller's disclosure should tell you who provides water service to the property.

Well water: If the home has a private well, there is no utility to set up. However, you should have the well water tested for quality and safety as part of your home inspection. Well pumps and pressure tanks should also be inspected to ensure they are in working order.

Timing: Water service can typically be transferred in 1 to 2 business days. Request the transfer at least 1 week before closing to avoid any gaps.

Internet and Cable: Xfinity, Verizon Fios, Optimum

Internet service is not technically a utility, but for most of us it is just as essential as electricity. South Jersey has several reliable providers, though availability varies by neighborhood.

• Xfinity (Comcast): Widely available across Burlington County. Offers cable internet with speeds up to 1,200 Mbps. Bundles with TV and phone are available. Installation appointments typically require 1 to 2 weeks advance booking.
• Verizon Fios: Fiber-optic service available in many towns including Moorestown, Mount Laurel, and Marlton. Faster upload speeds than cable. Also requires a 1 to 2 week lead time for installation.
• Optimum (Altice): Available in parts of South Jersey including some Burlington County communities. Comparable speeds and pricing to Xfinity.
• T-Mobile Home Internet and Verizon 5G Home: Wireless home internet options that do not require a cable or fiber installation. Available in many areas and can be self-installed same-day. Speeds are generally 100 to 300 Mbps, which is sufficient for most households.

Pro tip: Schedule your internet installation at least 2 to 3 weeks before closing. If you work from home, having a gap in service can be disruptive. Consider ordering a wireless backup plan if you need guaranteed uptime during your move.

Trash and Recycling: Municipal Pickup vs Private

Trash and recycling service in South Jersey is typically handled by the municipality. When you move into a home in towns like Moorestown, Medford, Mount Laurel, or Delran, trash pickup is included in your property taxes. You simply need to learn the pickup schedule and understand the rules for recycling, yard waste, and bulk items.

What to do:

• Visit your town's website and find the public works or sanitation department page
• Note the pickup day for your address (often Monday through Thursday depending on the zone)
• Learn what goes in recycling, what requires a special pickup, and what is accepted at the county drop-off center
• If you need a trash or recycling cart, contact your municipality to request one

Private haulers: Some newer developments or condominium associations use private waste haulers. Your HOA or property manager will provide details. If you live in a rural area without municipal service, you may need to contract with a private hauler like Waste Management or Republic Services.

Sewer Service: Usually Included with Water

In most South Jersey communities, sewer service is billed together with water service. If NJ American Water handles your water, they typically handle sewer as well. If you are on municipal water, the town usually handles both.

Septic systems: If the home has a septic system, there is no monthly utility bill. However, septic tanks need to be pumped every 3 to 5 years. Your home inspection should include a septic inspection to confirm the system is functioning properly. Ask the seller when the tank was last pumped and request maintenance records.

Home Security: ADT, Vivint, Ring, SimpliSafe

Many home buyers choose to install a security system when they move in. South Jersey has a range of options from professionally monitored systems to DIY smart home setups.

• ADT: Professionally installed and monitored. Requires a contract (typically 36 months). Monthly monitoring starts around $45 to $60. Best for homeowners who want a full-service system with professional installation.
• Vivint: Smart home-focused system with professional installation. Contracts are typically 42 to 60 months. Monthly monitoring is around $40 to $50. Includes smart locks, cameras, and thermostat integration.
• Ring Alarm: DIY installation. No long-term contract. Self-monitoring is free; professional monitoring is $20 per month or $200 per year. Easy to set up and move if you relocate.
• SimpliSafe: DIY installation with no contract. Monitoring starts at $28 per month for the standard plan. Equipment is sold as kits or individual components. Very easy to set up in under an hour.

If you are moving into a home that already has a security system, check with the seller whether the equipment stays. Some systems are owned and can be transferred, while others are leased and must be removed by the seller.

Other Services to Set Up

Depending on your property, you may also need to arrange for these services:

• Lawn care: If you are moving from a condo or apartment to a single-family home with a yard, you may need a lawn mower, trimmer, and other equipment. Alternatively, you can hire a local lawn service. Many South Jersey landscaping companies offer weekly or biweekly mowing, fertilization, and seasonal cleanups.
• Snow removal: New Jersey winters can bring significant snowfall. If you do not want to shovel your driveway and walkways, contract with a local snow removal service before the first storm. Many landscaping companies offer seasonal snow removal contracts.
• Pest control: South Jersey homes can face ants, spiders, termites, and rodents. A quarterly pest control service from a local company can prevent issues before they start. Some towns in Burlington County border wooded areas where pest pressure is higher.
• Pool service: If your new home has a pool, you will need to maintain it. Weekly pool service typically runs $100 to $150 per month during the swimming season. Opening and closing services are additional. If you are handy, you can learn to maintain the pool yourself, but it requires regular attention.

South Jersey Specific: Utility Providers by Town

Utility providers can vary by town and even by neighborhood. Here is a quick reference for some of the most common communities I serve:

• Moorestown: PSE&G electric and gas. Municipal water (Moorestown Water Department). Internet options include Xfinity and Verizon Fios. Moorestown community guide
• Medford: PSE&G electric and gas. Water by NJ American Water or private well. Internet options include Xfinity and Verizon Fios. Trash and recycling through Medford Township Public Works.
• Mount Laurel: PSE&G electric and gas. Water by NJ American Water. Internet options include Xfinity, Verizon Fios, and Optimum. Trash and recycling through Mount Laurel Township.
• Delran: PSE&G electric and gas. Water by NJ American Water. Internet options include Xfinity and Verizon Fios. Trash and recycling through Delran Township Public Works.
• Marlton (Evesham): PSE&G electric and gas. Water by NJ American Water or municipal well depending on the neighborhood. Internet options include Xfinity and Verizon Fios.
• Cherry Hill: PSE&G electric and gas. Water by NJ American Water. Internet options include Xfinity, Verizon Fios, and Optimum. Trash and recycling through Cherry Hill Township. Cherry Hill community guide
• Hainesport: PSE&G electric and gas. Water by NJ American Water or private well. Internet options include Xfinity. Trash through Hainesport Township.
• Lumberton: PSE&G electric and gas. Water by NJ American Water. Internet options include Xfinity.
• Cinnaminson: PSE&G electric and gas. Municipal water. Internet options include Xfinity and Verizon Fios.
• Bordentown: PSE&G electric and gas. Water by Bordentown Water Department or NJ American Water. Internet options include Xfinity and Verizon Fios.

If you are unsure who provides service to your new home, ask your real estate agent. Your agent can check the seller's disclosure or contact the listing agent to find out. I always help my buyers confirm their utility providers before closing so there are no surprises.

For a complete look at the market and what to expect, view the full South Jersey buyer guide.

Timeline: When to Start Each Utility

Use this timeline to plan your utility setup around your closing date:

• 3 to 4 weeks before closing: Schedule internet and cable installation. Contact PSE&G to start electric and gas service on your closing date. Contact NJ American Water or your municipal water provider.
• 2 weeks before closing: Confirm all utility start dates. Set up trash and recycling if needed. Research home security options and order equipment if going DIY. Schedule lawn care, snow removal, pest control, or pool service if needed.
• 1 week before closing: Verify that all utility accounts are active in your name on the correct date. Confirm your internet installation appointment. Gather your moving supplies and change of address documents.
• Closing day: Verify utilities are on. Walk through the home and test lights, water, heat, air conditioning, and internet. Notify your utility provider immediately if anything is not working.

What You Need: Account Info, ID, Deposit Requirements

Before you start calling utility providers, gather these documents and information. Having everything ready will make the process faster:

• Government-issued ID: Driver's license or passport
• Social Security number: Required for most utility credit checks
• New address: Exact street address, unit number, and ZIP code
• Moving date: The exact date you want service to start
• Previous address: For account history verification
• Landlord contact: If renting, your landlord's name and phone number
• Email address: For online account access and billing
• Payment method: Bank account or credit card for deposits and autopay

Deposit requirements vary by provider:

• PSE&G: Deposit may be required based on credit history, typically 2/12 of estimated annual bill
• NJ American Water: Deposit typically $75 to $150 based on credit
• Internet providers: Most require credit check. Deposit or prepayment may be needed if credit is limited
• Security monitoring: Contracts may require upfront equipment costs

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: Move-In Ready Checklist

Setting up utilities in a new home does not have to be stressful. Start early, gather your documents, and work through the checklist one provider at a time. Here is a quick summary of everything you need to do:

• Set up PSE&G electric and gas 2 to 3 weeks before closing
• Transfer water service with NJ American Water or your municipal provider
• Schedule internet installation 2 to 4 weeks before move-in
• Check your town's trash and recycling schedule
• Verify sewer or septic arrangements
• Order home security equipment or schedule installation
• Arrange lawn care, snow removal, pest control, or pool service if needed
• Forward your mail with USPS and update your address with banks, subscriptions, and government agencies

Moving into a new home is one of life's biggest milestones. Getting the utilities right means you can focus on settling in, exploring your new neighborhood, and making your house feel like home.

Need help with your move? Contact Bob Millaway at 856.426.1522

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