Closing day is an adrenaline rush. You’ve signed the papers, grabbed the keys, and you’re ready to step into your new life. But before you start unboxing the kitchen or planning the housewarming party, there is one critical step that often gets lost in the shuffle: getting the utilities transferred into your name.
It’s a big decision to move, and I’m here to make sure you don’t spend your first night in the dark.
Why This Step Can’t Wait
In Ontario, utilities companies (electricity, gas, and water) require a formal “Change of Occupancy” to ensure billing is accurate. If this step is overlooked:
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You could face service interruptions or a complete shut-off.
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You might be hit with “reconnection fees,” which are an unnecessary expense.
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The previous owner might inadvertently be billed for your usage, creating a messy financial headache.
Your Utilities Transfer Checklist
To ensure a smooth transition, follow this step-by-step guide at least one to two weeks before your closing date:
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Identify Your Providers: Depending on where you are in the GTA, your utilities providers for hydro, water, and gas will vary.
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Contact the Companies: Most providers allow you to notify them of a move online or over the phone. You’ll need your closing date and the new address handy.
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Schedule the Final Reading: The company will perform a final meter reading on your closing day. This step ensures you aren’t paying for the previous owner’s last few days of usage.
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Don’t Forget the Rentals: In many Ontario homes, water heaters or HVAC systems are rented. This is a separate step—you’ll need to contact the rental company to assume the contract.
Brampton & Peel Region: Utilities Transfer Checklist
Taking this step early (ideally 10–14 days before closing) ensures a seamless move. Here are the providers you need to contact:
| Utility | Provider | Contact Information | Action Needed |
| Electricity (Hydro) | Alectra Utilities | 1-833-ALECTRA (253-2872) alectrautilities.com | Open a new account or transfer your existing one. Be ready with your closing date and ID. |
| Water & Wastewater | Region of Peel | 905-791-8711 peelregion.ca/water | Fill out the “Water Bill Account Change” form online at least 15 days before moving. |
| Natural Gas | Enbridge Gas | 1-877-362-7434 enbridgegas.com | Notify them of your move. If you already have an account, you can usually do this via their online portal. |
| Rental Equipment | Various (e.g., Reliance, Enercare) | Check your Agreement of Purchase & Sale (APS) | If your new home has a rental water heater or HVAC, you must contact the provider to assume the contract. |
Toronto Region: Utilities Transfer Checklist
In the City of Toronto, many utilities are managed directly by the municipality. Be sure to have your property tax and water account information ready.
| Utility | Provider | Contact Information | Action Needed |
| Electricity (Hydro) | Toronto Hydro | 416-542-8000 torontohydro.com | Use the “Moving” section on their website to open or transfer your account. |
| Water, Solid Waste & Taxes | City of Toronto | 416-338-4829 (or 311) toronto.ca | Contact 311 to request a final meter read and to set up your new billing account for water and garbage. |
| Natural Gas | Enbridge Gas | 1-877-362-7434 enbridgegas.com | Notify them of your move date. Most existing customers can do this easily through the “MyAccount” portal. |
| Rental Equipment | Check Your APS | Look for stickers on the furnace/water heater | Common providers include Enercare or Reliance. You must call to assume the rental contract. |
York Region: Utilities Transfer Checklist
York Region is unique because while the Region handles the “big picture” water supply, your local town or city usually handles the billing and electricity.
| Utility | Provider | Contact Information | Action Needed |
| Electricity (Hydro) | Alectra Utilities (Vaughan, Markham, Richmond Hill) | 1-833-ALECTRA alectrautilities.com | Most of York Region uses Alectra. If you are in Newmarket, contact NT Power (905-895-2309). |
| Water & Wastewater | Your Local Municipality | Call your local Town/City Hall | Unlike Peel, you call your specific town (e.g., Town of Newmarket, City of Vaughan, City of Markham) to set up water billing. |
| Natural Gas | Enbridge Gas | 1-877-362-7434 enbridgegas.com | Enbridge is the primary provider for the entire York Region. |
| Rental Equipment | Check Your APS | Look for stickers on the equipment | Ensure you contact the rental company to update the billing name from the previous owner to yours. |
Pro-Tip for Every Step
When you call these providers, always ask for a reference number or a confirmation email for the transfer. Keeping a record of this step prevents any “he-said, she-said” situations if a bill accidentally goes to the wrong person after closing.
I’m With You Every Step
Managing the logistics of a move is a lot to handle. As your realtor, I see it as my job to guide you through every step, from the initial search to the moment you flip the light switch in your new living room.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the “to-do” list that comes with your big decision, don’t worry. I’ll be there to help you navigate the utilities setup and keep your move on track. Contact me today at 647-995-3391 or via email at [email protected]. You can also visit my website by clicking here.
