Step 20 to Selling Your Home: Schedule Your Utilities to End

This is one of those annoying tasks that’s easy to forget but crucial. Call now to notify utility providers that you’re moving. Ask to end service on the day of closing so you don’t accidentally pay the buyer’s first month of bills. If you’re moving to a new home, request a transfer instead of a cancellation whenever possible.

Who to Call

• Electric & Gas
• Water & Sewer (single-family homes typically handle this directly)
• Trash/Recycling (if billed separately)
• Internet & TV (return equipment as instructed)
• Security System / Monitoring (schedule shutoff the day before closing)
• Propane/Oil (if applicable — schedule tank read/final delivery pickup)

Tips & Timing

• Set all utility end dates to the closing date (except security, 1 day prior).
• Request a final meter read and final bill to your forwarding address.
• If your HOA covers any utilities, confirm what’s included and whether you still need to notify providers.
• Keep confirmation numbers/screenshots of each cancellation/transfer.