How to transfer utilities when moving to Fort Lauderdale

Every move has tasks that sneak up on you, and utility transfers are one of them. In Fort Lauderdale, forgetting to handle water, power, or internet on time can delay your move-in. This Miami movers‘ guide gives you simple, local steps to transfer utilities when moving to Fort Lauderdale and set everything up correctly. Without confusion, without stress, and without calling five different offices last minute.

What utilities do you need to set up when moving to Fort Lauderdale

Once you find an affordable home in Fort Lauderdale, you’ll need to arrange several essential services:

• Water and sewer: Managed by the City of Fort Lauderdale.
• Electricity: Handled by Florida Power & Light (FPL).
• Gas: Often through TECO Peoples Gas, depending on your location.
• Trash and recycling: Included in city utility services.
• Internet and cable: Xfinity, AT&T, and other private providers serve most neighborhoods.

Some homes may already have accounts set up, so double-check with your landlord, realtor, or current resident. You’ll want to avoid creating duplicate accounts or paying someone else’s bill. Always confirm who the service provider is for each utility at your new address before signing up.

How to transfer utilities when moving to Fort Lauderdale

Start the process 2–3 weeks before moving. Cancel or transfer your services from your old address and schedule connections at your new place. Each provider works differently, so look for confirmation emails or call if needed.

Water and sewer

To set up water service, head to the City of Fort Lauderdale Utility Billing page. You can do it online, over the phone, or in person at City Hall. Be ready with your move-in date, new address, and a valid ID. New accounts sometimes require a deposit, so check the details when you sign up.

Electricity

Florida Power & Light (FPL) handles most electricity in the area. You can start or transfer service at fpl.com, or call during business hours if you prefer to speak to someone. Have your Social Security number or tax ID handy before you begin.

Gas

If your home uses gas, it’s likely from TECO Peoples Gas. You can schedule your service through peoplesgas.com or by calling customer support. Costs depend on your property type, so expect to get a quote when you call.

Trash and recycling

Once your water is set up through the city, trash and recycling services usually kick in automatically. Pickup days are based on your address, and there’s nothing extra you need to do unless you’re missing bins or need a schedule.

Internet and cable

Service availability depends on your neighborhood, so check provider websites using your ZIP code. Xfinity and AT&T are the two main options. You can sign up online or stop by a local store to pick up your equipment. Installation slots can fill up fast, so book early.

How to change your address with the City of Fort Lauderdale

To change your address for billing and services, log in at fortlauderdale.gov/utility-billing and update your account profile. If you’re a homeowner, it’s also smart to notify Broward County’s property appraiser and tax collector.

Renters should tell their landlord, too. And don’t forget to submit a USPS change-of-address form at moversguide.usps.com to redirect your mail.

How utility billing works in Fort Lauderdale

Utility billing in Fort Lauderdale depends on the provider, but here’s what you can expect:

• City of Fort Lauderdale water bill: Monthly billing, with payments accepted online, by mail, or in person. You can use the utilities login portal to set up autopay or e-billing.
• FPL electricity bill: Also billed monthly. Online dashboards help track usage and set alerts.
• Gas and internet bills: Typically come separately. Gas may include service fees and deposit requirements. Internet providers often offer promotional rates—check when they expire to avoid surprise costs.

Setting up online accounts for each utility lets you track billing, usage, and outages. It’s an easy way to stay on top of living costs in Fort Lauderdale. It also simplifies communication if something goes wrong.

Final steps before move-in day

Before moving in, confirm all services are active. Test the water, power, and internet. If anything doesn’t work, contact the provider right away. Save your usernames and passwords in a secure file. Set up payment reminders or automatic payments to avoid late fees. These small steps save time—and a lot of stress—during those first few days in your new home.

Fort Lauderdale utilities phone numbers and support info

When a bill looks off or a service fails, don’t wait. Calling support often fixes issues faster than email or chat. Here are the key numbers to keep handy:

• City of Fort Lauderdale Utility Billing: 954-828-5150
• Florida Power & Light (FPL): 800-226-3545
• TECO Peoples Gas: 877-832-6747
• AT&T: 800-288-2020
• Xfinity: 800-934-6489

When you call, have your new address, a valid ID, and move-in date ready. Some services may ask for your Social Security number or a deposit. Calling during business hours is usually fastest, but lines stay busiest on Mondays and around lunch. Online forms are available 24/7, though.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

People often wait too long to transfer utilities, leading to move-in day delays. Others forget to cancel old services and get billed for days they weren’t even there. Sometimes, accounts are opened under the wrong name or address.

Don’t let utility slip-ups ruin the timing of your home purchase in Fort Lauderdale. To avoid common issues, always:

• Double-check your service address before submitting forms
• Keep all confirmation emails and account numbers
• Schedule shutoff dates for your old home
• Set start dates at your new place at least 3–5 days before moving

Mistakes with utilities often cause unnecessary costs or last-minute stress. Taking the time to plan will ensure everything is working the day you arrive. No cold showers, no missed internet setup, and no back-and-forth with customer service when you’re already busy unpacking.

Make your move easier with utilities set up the right way

Moving to Fort Lauderdale can feel like a lot: a new neighborhood, a new schedule, and plenty of tasks to juggle. But utilities shouldn’t be one of the stressful parts. When you take the time to handle water, power, internet, and trash service ahead of your move-in day, everything runs smoother from the start. A quick call or a few clicks to transfer utilities when moving to Fort Lauderdale, and you’re ready to settle in without disruptions!