Moving can be a stressful time. Use these tips to help reduce the anxiety and prevent unexpected expense.
Before You Move
Your new home may have utility services already, so getting an account set up in your name could only take a phone call to the utility company. If you already have electricity and/or gas in your name, you may be able to transfer accounts from one billing address to another.
If you need to set up services, you have options when buying electricity and natural gas:
Regulated Rates
- The Rate of Last Resort (RoLR) for electricity
- The Default Rate Tariff (DRT) for natural gas
Competitive Rates
- Variable Rate (also known as a floating rate)
- Fixed Rate
If you need to open a new account, a company offering the regulated rate can set up an account for you immediately. A competitive retailer can take 10-90 days to set up services in your name.
Try to call your chosen utility company at least two weeks before you take possession of your home. You can use our Cost Comparison Tool to compare plans and rates to find what company works best for you. New customers will need to provide their full name and contact information (phone number and email), service address, and desired service start date. You may also be asked to provide some type of identification, such as your driver’s license number. You can switch from a regulated rate to a competitive rate at any time without penalty.
Tip: ask what type of utility meter is in your new residence
The type of meter at a property determines the rates charged by your retailer. A private home can have a residential or commercial meter. The distribution company can install a commercial meter on residential property if the property owners have a home-based business and require a reliable supply of energy at all times. If you have a commercial meter on your property, your utility bill is going to be higher because of higher distribution charges. There are no regulations in place requiring the retailer to confirm what the property is being used for when the billing customer changes. It is your responsibility to ask your retailer about the type of meter installed on your property and ask that it be changed.
Plan for additional fees
The retailer or distributor may request a deposit (also known as a prudential) or connection fees to set up your utilities. When setting up services, ask if you need to pay these fees before the service is delivered or if they will be charged on your first statement. Be sure to ask your retailer if it is possible to avoid these fees. Some companies will waive deposits for customers who set up automatic monthly withdrawal.
After You Move In:
Make sure you receive and pay your bills:
Check with your retailer about how you will receive your first bill. Some retailers use paper billing, while others are completely electronic. It’s a good idea to confirm when you will receive your bills and what your billing cycle will be. The account holder is responsible for all charges, even if they do not receive a bill.
Paying your bill is important! If you do not pay your bills, your services may be disconnected.
Learn more about the different responsibilities landlords and tenants have regarding utilities.
How We Can Help
The Utilities Consumer Advocate’s mediation officers can share advice on comparing utility rates, as well as provide information on utility issues and help settle disputes with your provider. Contact us toll-free at 310-4822, email at ucahelps@gov.ab.ca, or visit the Contact a Mediation Officer page for more information.