Moving isn't just about boxes and a moving truck. It also involves a series of administrative tasks that you need to plan for in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises: duplicate bills, internet service being cut off, missing insurance certificates…
Managing your subscriptions and contracts properly before moving allows you to move with peace of mind and arrive at a home that’s immediately ready to use.
Why is it essential to manage your contracts before moving?
Planning ahead for your utility contracts is essential to avoid unnecessary costs or service interruptions. A contract that hasn’t been canceled may continue to be billed after you move out, while a contract that hasn’t been transferred could leave you without electricity, water, or internet service in your new home (and that’s something we all dread!).
Taking the time to review each subscription also allows you to adjust your contracts to your new circumstances: living space, location, actual needs, and so on. It’s also a chance to compare offers and, sometimes, save money.
For a complete overview, find out everything you need to know about the formalities involved in moving.
Services to take care of before moving
💧 Water and Energy
Before moving out, be sure to cancel or transfer your water, electricity, and gas service contracts. On the day you move out, the meters must be read so that your service can be properly terminated and to avoid any charges after you’ve moved.
In a building equipped with shared meters, water management is generally handled by the property manager: no individual contracts are required, but it is recommended that you record the meter readings when you move in. However, with individual meters or in a single-family home, you must sign up for service with the relevant providers, ideally a few days before moving in to ensure access to water and energy as soon as you arrive.
🏠 Home Insurance
Homeowners insurance is required for any occupied residence, whether you are a renter or a homeowner. If you move, you can either cancel your current policy or transfer it to your new address. In most cases, a simple amendment is all that’s needed, provided you notify your insurer in advance and provide details about the new residence (square footage, location, type of property).
🛜 Internet, cable box, phone service
You should plan ahead for internet and phone service, as transfer times can vary depending on the provider and whether your home meets the eligibility requirements. Once you know your new address, your provider can arrange to transfer your service or offer you a new plan that suits your needs. By starting the process early enough, you’ll minimize the risk of a prolonged service outage and make your move-in process smoother.
Other contracts & subscriptions
When you're moving and your to-do list keeps getting longer, it's easy to forget about certain additional subscriptions, even though you may continue to be billed for them after you've moved out.
Be sure to review any contracts related to the gym, newspapers, parking, the school cafeteria, delivery services, or local subscriptions. Depending on the situation, some may require cancellation, while others simply need an address change. Taking care of these details in advance will help you avoid unnecessary charges and ensure your subscriptions are updated to reflect your new circumstances.
Verify that each service has been properly canceled or transferred
Once you’ve completed all the necessary steps, make sure that each contract has been canceled or transferred to your new address. Take the time to check the end dates or effective dates, and be sure to keep all written confirmations sent by the various providers.
Also, be sure to keep a record of your latest utility readings (water, electricity, gas), which can serve as proof in the event of a dispute. This verification step helps prevent billing errors, unauthorized charges, or disputes after you move, and ensures that your administrative transition is as smooth as settling into your new home.
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FAQ – Subscriptions and Moving
How do I transfer my home insurance to a new home?
Generally, all you need to do is contact your insurer and provide them with your new address, the move-in date, and details about the property. An amendment to the policy will then be drawn up.
How do I transfer my internet service when I move?
As soon as you know your new address, contact your service provider to arrange for the transfer of your internet service. They will check whether your new home is eligible for service ( ADSL, fiber, cable) and will offer to either transfer your current subscription or set up a new line.
What should you do about your water service when you move?
The procedures related to water service depend on the type of housing. In an apartment building with a shared meter, you don’t need to set up a new account: the property manager handles the billing. Just be sure to read the meter upon arrival to avoid any disputes. However, if there is an individual meter, you must sign up for a water service contract in your name. If you’re moving into a house, contact your local water utility about two weeks before your move to ensure water service is available upon arrival.