Setting Up Home
Utilities Setup Guide
Set up these services 2–3 weeks before your move-in date to ensure everything is active on day one. Provider contacts, setup steps, and Florida-specific tips included.
Set Up 2–3 Weeks Early
Don't wait until the week of your move. Utility activations can take time, especially for internet installation.
Budget for Summer Bills
Air conditioning in South Florida runs hard June–September. Expect electric bills 40–60% higher than winter months.
Ask About HOA Inclusions
Many condo and HOA communities include water, trash, and cable in monthly fees. Confirm before setting up duplicate services.
Homestead & Efficiency
After filing for Homestead Exemption, consider a home energy audit — FPL offers free audits to help reduce your electric bill.
Electric
Florida Power & Light (FPL)
Serves most of Palm Beach County
Set up service 2 weeks before move-in. FPL offers budget billing to smooth out seasonal spikes. Expect higher bills June–September due to A/C usage.
Water & Sewer
Palm Beach County Water Utilities
Or your municipality (City of WPB, Boca, etc.)
Contact your specific city — Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and West Palm Beach each have their own water departments. Unincorporated areas use the county utility.
Internet & Cable
AT&T Fiber, Comcast Xfinity, Hotwire
Availability varies by neighborhood
AT&T Fiber is available in many areas. Hotwire serves many condo communities. Check availability early — installation can take 1–2 weeks. Many new builds have fiber pre-wired.
Trash & Recycling
Palm Beach County Solid Waste Authority
Or your municipality
Most single-family homes have curbside pickup. Condos typically have on-site service included in HOA fees. Bulk pickup days vary by zone — check the SWA website for your schedule.
Natural Gas
Florida City Gas / TECO Peoples Gas
Only if your home uses gas appliances
Many Palm Beach County homes are all-electric. If your home has gas appliances (range, water heater, dryer), contact Florida City Gas or TECO Peoples Gas to establish service.
Home Security
ADT, Ring, SimpliSafe, local providers
Optional but recommended
Many Palm Beach County communities have neighborhood watch programs. Smart home security systems integrate well with Florida's smart home market. Check if your HOA has community cameras.
Also in Relocation
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