Household systems guide
Utility setup.
Provider identity follows the address—not the city name alone.
Central Florida service territories cross municipal and county lines. A mailing address does not reliably identify every provider. Confirm each service using the exact street address and the provider’s official channel.
Build the address-specific service map
- Electricity
- Water and wastewater or well and septic responsibilities
- Solid waste, recycling, and yard-waste collection
- Internet and any required equipment installation
- Natural or propane gas, if present
- HOA, condominium, community-district, gate, irrigation, or bulk-service arrangements
Ask the landlord, seller, property manager, municipality, or county to identify services, then verify directly with each provider.
Before scheduling service
- Confirm start date, deposits, identity checks, credit options, fees, and accepted payment.
- Ask whether a technician needs interior, gate, meter, utility-room, or adult access.
- Clarify whether the prior account must close before the new one can start.
- Record appointment windows, confirmation numbers, equipment, and return obligations.
- Avoid payment links in unsolicited messages; begin at the provider’s official website or published phone number.
On arrival
- Photograph meter readings and visible property condition.
- Test cooling, hot water, major outlets, internet, plumbing, and any gas appliance.
- Confirm waste containers, collection days, recycling rules, and bulk-pickup procedures.
- Check the first bill for address, dates, readings, deposits, plan, and unexpected services.
Keep one utility record
Save provider name, account number, official contact, start date, deposit, autopay status, service appointments, meter photographs, and cancellation or equipment-return terms. Protect account numbers and access codes.
Storm and digging safety
Enroll in provider outage alerts and learn how to report an outage. Never use a portable generator indoors or near openings. Before digging, use Sunshine 811. For preparedness, use the Florida Division of Emergency Management.