When planning a move, most people focus on packing, transportation, and cleaning — but often forget one crucial task: cancelling utilities. Whether you're relocating across the street or across the city, managing your utility accounts is a vital step that ensures you don’t end up paying for services after you’ve moved out. From electricity and gas to water and internet, each service needs to be wrapped up properly before the big day.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to cancel utilities when moving house, breaking it down into simple, practical steps. The process can feel overwhelming at first, but with a bit of structure, it’s easier than you might think.

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Step 1: Make a List of Your Current Utility Services

Before you can cancel anything, it’s important to know what services you currently use. Common household utilities include:

• Electricity

• Gas

• Water

• Internet/Wi-Fi

• Home phone

• Pay TV or streaming subscriptions

• Waste and recycling collection (if private)

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Write them down or use a checklist to keep track. This list will help you contact each provider and avoid missing any accounts.

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Step 2: Find Out the Notice Period Required

Utility providers typically require notice before ending your service. For example, electricity or gas companies might need 2–5 business days’ notice. Internet providers may require a bit more, depending on your contract.

It’s a good idea to check each provider’s website or call them to confirm how much notice they need. This will ensure services are disconnected on time and avoid charges for services you’re no longer using.

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Step 3: Contact Providers to Arrange Disconnection

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Once you know your move-out date and notice period, start calling or logging in to your provider accounts. Request cancellation or disconnection for each service. You may be asked for:

• Your account number

• Your current address

• Your final day of service

• A forwarding address for the final bill

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Some providers allow you to cancel online, while others might need a phone call. Make a note of any confirmation numbers or email receipts you receive, just in case there are any issues later.

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Step 4: Organise Final Meter Readings

For services like electricity, gas, and water, it’s important to ensure your final bill is accurate. In many cases, the provider will automatically schedule a final meter reading on your last day at the property.

However, it’s still worth double-checking:

• Ask if a final meter reading is required

• Take a photo of your meter readings on move-out day as a backup

• If you're in a shared property, confirm who is responsible for which bills

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This helps avoid disputes or overcharging.

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Step 5: Forward Your Final Bills and Confirm Cancellation

Don’t forget to provide your new address to each provider so they can send you any final bills. This also allows them to return any deposits or credits if applicable.

Once you’ve moved, double-check that all services have been cancelled as requested. If you’re still being charged, follow up with customer support and provide any reference numbers you noted earlier.

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Step 6: Don’t Forget Internet and Pay TV

While it’s easy to focus on water, gas, and power, internet and TV services are often overlooked. Some providers offer a service transfer to your new address, while others require cancellation and re-activation.

Important reminders:

• Check contract terms to avoid early disconnection fees

• Decide whether to move the service or start fresh with a new provider

• Allow at least a week’s notice for internet disconnection or relocation

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Step 7: Handle Rubbish Collection and Other Local Services

If your rubbish and recycling are arranged privately (not council-provided), contact the company to cancel or update your details. You might also need to:

• Return bins

• Cancel garden waste collection

• Redirect mail through Australia Post

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Every household is different, so consider what additional services may be tied to your old address.

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Bonus: Coordinate With Your Moving Company

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As your move date approaches, coordinating timing with your furniture removalist can help avoid interruptions. For example:

• Ensure utilities like electricity stay active until the last item is removed

• Make sure there's running water if cleaners come after the move

• Keep Wi-Fi available if you’re using online services or digital checklists

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A reputable moving company may also offer packing reminders or schedules that include utility cancellations — so feel free to ask if they have a checklist you can use.

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Conclusion

Cancelling utilities when moving house doesn’t have to be stressful — but it does need to be planned. Taking the time to list your providers, understand notice periods, and confirm cancellation will save you hassle later. Whether you’re moving into a rental or your own home, managing utilities properly ensures a clean break from your old address and a smooth transition into your new one.

A little preparation goes a long way. And when you finally unpack that last box, you’ll be glad you sorted everything out ahead of time.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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Do I need to cancel utilities if I’m just changing rooms in a shared house?

If utilities are in your name, yes. If not, check with the main account holder and make sure your name is removed if applicable.

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Can I cancel utilities before my official move-out date?

Yes, but make sure the disconnection date matches when you’ll no longer need access. It’s best to leave essential services connected until the move is complete.

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What if I forget to cancel a service?

You may be charged for usage even after you leave. Contact the provider as soon as possible, and explain the situation — some may backdate the disconnection, but others may not.

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Is there a cancellation fee for utilities?

Some internet or pay TV services may charge early termination fees, especially if you’re under contract. Electricity and water usually don’t charge to disconnect.

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How do I set up utilities in my new home?

Once your move-in date is confirmed, contact the new providers early to arrange connection. Some services can take several days, so don’t leave it to the last minute.

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