Moving to Houston: the utilities checklist
What is different about setting up a home in Houston, and what to do in the two weeks before you get the keys.
When: Start two weeks before move-in
What is different here
- You choose your electricity company. In most of Greater Houston one company owns the wires and you pick who sells you the power.
- Your water may not come from the city. Many neighborhoods get water and sewer from a local district called a MUD.
- Trash depends on the address: the city, the water district, an HOA, or a private hauler.
- Not every home has gas. Many are all electric.
Two weeks before
- Pick an electricity plan and set it to start on move-in day.
- Book internet. Install openings can be a week or two out.
- Forward your mail with the post office.
The week before
- Open a water account with the city or your MUD. Expect a deposit.
- Find out who picks up trash and which days.
- If the home has gas, open a gas account and book the turn-on.
Your first month
- New to Texas: you have 90 days to get a Texas driver license and 30 days to register your vehicle.
- Update your voter registration.
- If you bought the home, file a homestead exemption with the county appraisal district.
Want this done for your address?
Tell us your new address and move-in date. Your plan shows who handles each of these at your home, with links. No cost to you.
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