Services/utilities at new property

PoorPonyMom

Hello, please excuse my ignorance on this but am after some advice

Myself and other half have had offer accepted on a property. Full mortgage offer submitted and returned in writing as accepted and with solicitors. They have carried out searches and are preparing docs for exchange/completion.

My question is re utilities - we don't know who the current providers are at the new house - who should we ask? estate agent? How do we get these transferred into our names? Also when should we start enquiring about potential new suppliers/rates? I guess it's completion date when we become responsible for these things? We are hoping to exchange and complete in a short time period (maybe same day) so looking for a bit of guidance if possible

Thank you

Kynthia

Your solicitor will ask the current owner who the utilities are with. I personally wouldn't open any accounts or sign up to any deals until at least the day of completion and I had taken the meter readings. Once you have the readings you can ring the supplier, pass then over and give them your details as this ensures you aren't charged for utilities consumed by the previous owner. Then do research on who you want to move to and contact them whenever, as they will then end your contract with your current supplier.

Is there a reason you wish to exchange and complete the same day? This creates uncertainty and an inability to plan for completion and the associated activities, any delays can result in mortgage funds being returned, plus many solicitors charge extra. Therefore most people would only consider it if they were in a rush to buy and weren't intending to move in on completion day or immediately after.

Rollinghills

In our case the seller filled a property information form that included current utility providers and location of meters. Have you had yours back? If you haven't or it wasn't written anywhere ask your solicitor.

You should also get a fixtures and fittings form that will specify what elements of the house will remain such as light fittings, curtain rails, white goods if any, carpets, doors etc.

Pixie5740

You don't transfer utility accounts from one resident to another, you open your own accounts with the utility suppliers.

The information about who supplies what utilities to the property should be on the Sellers Property Questionnaire.

Edit: Wait until you've exchanged to go opening up new utility accounts.

jonathanrolande

Check the terms of any agreement you signed which should detail fees. The tenants should clean before they leave but this is usually not to an amazing standard so worth you paying a few pounds to get it professionally done especially as they have been there so long.