Moving to Seattle can be a great decision. From local cultural landmarks like Pike Place Market to the beautiful majesty of the surrounding woodlands and ocean, it’s a truly lovely place to settle down. One of the few downsides to moving to Seattle is the same downside you’ll find with any move: getting your affairs in order.

One of the most tedious tasks involved in a move is making sure that everything is working properly when you arrive at your new home. That’s why we’ve made this guide for setting up utilities in the Emerald City.

Water

As is usually the case with municipalities, water services are handled through the city. You can contact Seattle Public Utilities directly through their website and use their online application. Be sure to give them a little advanced notice, as it normally takes three days on average to get your water hooked up.

You’ll need to provide the office with a water meter reading at your residence. If this is your first time living in Seattle, you’ll have to call the office directly at (206) 684-3000 to verify your identity.

Gas

Puget Sound Energy is the only residential provider of natural gas services in Seattle. Not all residences make use of natural gas, so be sure to check your utilities ahead of time to see if you need service established. Getting your gas turned on is as simple as creating an account and navigating through their online process for starting service.

In addition to your name, address, phone number, and a form of ID, you may be required to provide your proof of income.

Electricity

Electrical service is covered by the city itself through Seattle City Light who ensure fair rates for all the residents of Seattle. You can get your service established through Seattle City Light by calling, faxing, or visiting their office. You’ll need to show a valid government ID and provide them with your new address. A $23 administration fee is assessed for all new services.

Internet and Cable

Seattle is certainly not lacking when it comes to internet and cable providers. There are approximately a dozen internet providers in the area with options varying from international brands like Comcast to local providers like Frontier. Some of these companies allow you to package together internet and cable plans together as well. Just keep in mind that many of these smaller providers offer only limited access throughout the city.

You can compare rates, internet speeds, and service area here, and you’ll also find direct phone numbers for each of the service providers listed.

Trash

Trash is overseen by Seattle Public Utilities, and your garbage services will be automatically set up when you establish water at your new home. Garbage service can be managed directly through your account, and you can use the online portal to pay your bill, figure out pickup days for your neighborhood, and add, change, or replace garbage cans.

Setting up your utilities is part of the battle of conquering a move. For help with the heavy lifting, hauling, and back-breaking work of moving, we recommend Cheap Movers Seattle (cheapmoversseattle.com). They can help with local, long-distance, furniture, and office moves of any shape or size. As a trusted Seattle Moving Company with years of experience, you can trust them with licensed and insured moving services for your next upcoming move.