How to Connect Utilities in Riverview, Florida

Riverview, Florida, is a fast-growing suburb of Tampa. Once you sign the lease or close on a new home in Riverview, it is time to prepare for the move. An important part of the move is to make sure that utilities are connected in your new home. A move into a home without electricity, water or phone service is an inconvenience, so arrange for the home's utilities to be connected in advance.

Instructions

1. Find out what utilities you will need to have connected. Most people will only need to have electric, water and phone service connected, but sometimes natural gas service will be required as well. Your landlord or real estate agent can let you know which essential services you will need.

2. Check your lease to find out if you or the landlord will be responsible for setting up utility services, if you are renting. Find out what date(s) the service will start. You will want to schedule your move-in date after service starts.

3. Ensure that you have adequate funds for service deposits and connection fees if you need to put the utilities in your name. Utility companies will usually require that you provide them with your full name and a form of identification, such as a Social Security number, driver's license number or resident alien card to connect service.

4. Contact the local electricity provider, Tampa Electric Company, at [phone] to start service. You may also fill out a service request form on its website. TECO may require a deposit based on previous service history or a credit check. The customer service rep will inform you of any required deposit or service fees due when you request service by phone. The Internet request form will explain the various options for deposits and service fees.

5. Call Hillsborough County Water Resource Services at [phone] to turn on water service in the Riverview area. A security deposit and connection fee is required for service.

6. Contact TECO People's Gas, also known as TECO PGS, for service if you will need natural gas. The number is [phone]. TECO PGS also has an online form for turn-on service as well. A turn-on fee and security deposit is required. You will also need someone over the age of 18 to be present for activation.

7. Decide if you will need telephone and cable service. Verizon is one of the local providers of telephone and cable service in the Tampa area. It can be reached at [phone]. An alternative provider is Brighthouse Networks. Customer service is available at [phone]. Both Verizon and Brighthouse may require deposits or installation fees.

Tips & Warnings

• Check with your landlord or real estate agent if you will be the responsible party. They often have a list of the local utility companies and can provide contact information for them.

• Schedule your service turn-on date at least a day or two before your move-in date. The last thing you want to worry about is not being able to use electricity or the water on your move-in date.

• Keep your scheduled service appointments. Utilities may charge a fee if an appointment is missed.

References

• Tampa Electric Service Turn On
• Hillsborough County Water Services

Resources

• TECO People's Gas
• Verizon-Order Service
• Brighthouse-Contact Us