Moving into a new rental home involves more than collecting the keys. Before your tenancy begins, it’s important to organise your essential utilities and services so everything is ready from your move-in date.
From electricity and internet to water usage, understanding your responsibilities early can help you avoid unnecessary delays, unexpected costs, and service interruptions.
This guide explains the utilities you’ll typically need to arrange before moving into your Queensland rental property.
Arrange Your Electricity Before Moving In
One of the first things every tenant should organise is their electricity account.
Before your tenancy starts, contact your preferred electricity retailer and arrange for the electricity to be connected from the commencement date of your lease.
Having your electricity connected before moving day ensures your home is ready to live in from the moment you arrive.
If you’re unsure where to start, your property manager may be able to guide you through the process.
Gas Connections
If your rental property has a gas supply, you’ll also need to arrange an account with your preferred gas provider.
Like electricity, your gas connection should begin on the first day of your tenancy to ensure appliances and hot water are available when you move in.
Setting Up Your Internet Connection
Most rental properties are connected to the National Broadband Network (NBN).
To organise your internet service:
- Choose your preferred internet service provider.
- Contact them before moving in.
- Arrange activation from your tenancy commencement date.
Planning ahead helps minimise delays, especially if you work or study from home.
Moving Into a Brand-New Home?
If you’re renting a newly built property, there may be an additional NBN development connection charge before the internet service can be activated.
Where this applies, your tenancy agreement may provide for reimbursement of the eligible connection fee.
If your property manager requests documentation, you may need to provide:
- A copy of your first internet invoice.
- The property address.
- Details showing the NBN development connection charge.
Your property manager will then advise how any reimbursement is processed in accordance with your tenancy agreement.
Understanding Water Charges
Many Queensland rental properties are individually water metered.
Where permitted under your tenancy agreement and Queensland tenancy legislation, tenants are generally responsible for paying water consumption charges during their tenancy.
Before you move in, the property’s water meter is usually read to record the starting usage.
This ensures you’re only charged for the water you use from the beginning of your tenancy.
When the water account is received, your property manager will calculate your water usage and provide:
- A copy of the water invoice.
- A water usage statement.
- Payment instructions.
If you have questions about your water account, contact your property manager for clarification.
Report Water Leaks Immediately
A small plumbing issue can quickly become a costly repair.
If you notice:
- A leaking tap.
- A leaking toilet.
- Water running continuously.
- Plumbing leaks.
- Any other water-related issue.
report it to your property manager as soon as possible.
Prompt reporting helps reduce water wastage, prevents property damage, and allows repairs to be organised before the issue becomes more serious.
Need Help?
Setting up utilities can feel overwhelming if you’re moving for the first time or relocating to a new area.
If you’re unsure about:
- Electricity
- Gas
- Internet
- Water charges
- Utility responsibilities
contact your property management team. They’re there to help explain the process and answer any questions before your tenancy begins.
Final Thoughts
Organising your utilities before moving into your rental property helps ensure a smooth start to your tenancy.
By arranging electricity, gas, internet, understanding your water responsibilities, and reporting plumbing issues promptly, you’ll avoid unnecessary stress and enjoy a more comfortable move-in experience.
A little preparation before moving day can make settling into your new home much easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I organise my electricity connection?
Arrange your electricity connection before your tenancy starts so the service is active from your move-in date.
Do I need to organise my own internet?
Yes. Tenants are generally responsible for choosing their internet provider and arranging connection to the property.
What happens if I’m moving into a newly built rental property?
Some new homes may require an initial NBN development connection before internet services can be activated. Check with your property manager about any applicable charges or reimbursement process under your tenancy agreement.
Am I responsible for paying water charges?
If the property is individually metered and your tenancy agreement allows it under Queensland legislation, you’ll usually be responsible for paying your water consumption during the tenancy.
What should I do if I notice a leaking tap or toilet?
Report it to your property manager immediately. Small leaks can waste significant amounts of water and may lead to larger maintenance issues if left unattended.
Your Next Move
Have a maintenance issue or noticed damage at your rental property? Contact our property management team as soon as possible. Reporting concerns early allows us to arrange repairs quickly and helps keep your home safe, comfortable, and well maintained.
