Moving in Los Angeles? Your LADWP, SoCalGas and Internet Checklist
· 3 min read · By Ursa Moving
In this article
Getting to your new place and finding the lights off is a rough way to end moving day. Here's a simple checklist for utilities in Los Angeles.
2–3 weeks before: list every account
Electricity and water, gas, internet, trash (often billed with LADWP in the City of LA), renter's or homeowner's insurance, streaming and security systems. Note account numbers in one place.
LADWP (electricity and water)
If both addresses are in LADWP's service area, LADWP says a transfer is handled by phone or in person, not online. Starting or stopping service can be done online, by phone, or in person at a Customer Service Center. Their residential contact center is 1-800-DIAL-DWP (Mon–Fri 7 a.m.–7 p.m., Sat 7 a.m.–2 p.m.). Changes or cancellations to a pending request have to be made at least 24 hours before the requested date. Not all of LA County is LADWP. Cities like Glendale, Burbank and Pasadena have their own utilities, and many areas are served by Southern California Edison.
SoCalGas (natural gas)
SoCalGas lets you start or transfer service online through My Account. They list a few requirements: the address must be in their service area, a meter must be installed, and new customers verify identity (they ask for an SSN, or call 1-877-238-0092 if you can't provide one). SoCalGas says a one-time $25 service fee is added to the first bill, and a technician may need to enter the home to turn on gas, so plan to be there.
Timing tip
Schedule the old place to shut off the day after you move out and the new place to turn on the day before you move in. You'll want lights for a final walk-through and for the crew unloading in the evening.
Internet
Book installation early; appointment slots can fill up. If you work from home, have a phone hotspot as backup for the first days.
Don't forget
- Update your address with USPS and your bank.
- Snap photos of the meters on move-out day.
- Pack chargers, a power strip, and light bulbs in your day-one box.
Moving day itself
Our crews handle the heavy part: 2 movers $119/h, 3 movers $159/h, 4 movers $199/h, with packing, shrink wrap, blankets, wardrobe boxes, and disassembly/reassembly included. Get a free quote or call (213) 292-7675.
