Just got the keys? Here's how utilities actually work when you move

Electricity, gas and water are already there when you arrive. The real question is what to arrange, and how quickly. Here's the simple version.

Moving into a new home is exciting, and a little stressful. One of the most common worries we hear, especially from newcomers and expats, is this: "When I get the keys, will I have electricity? Do I need to arrange everything on the same day or I'll be left in the dark?" The good news: it's far simpler than most people fear.

Electricity, gas and water are already there

Let's clear up the biggest misconception first. When you receive the keys to your new home, electricity, gas and water are almost always already connected and live.

The physical connections, the cables, the pipes, the meters, belong to the grid operator (the netbeheerder), not to you or the previous resident. They stay in place and stay active. Nothing gets switched off the moment the previous occupant leaves, so you won't walk into a dark home with no running water.

What actually changes is only the supply contract, the agreement about who pays for what you use. That means you don't have to arrange everything in a panic on moving day.

The meter readings at key handover are your anchor point

The single most important thing to do on the day you collect the keys is to write down, or photograph, all the meter readings: electricity (both peak and off-peak), gas and water. These are your starting readings, the official beginning of your consumption in the home.

In other words, your contract is backdated to your move-in date based on those handover readings. You don't get a "gap," and you don't use free energy in the meantime, everything is settled neatly against the reading taken at handover. The grid operator records your move-in date as the reference date, and your supplier bills from that point onward.

One caveat: don't leave it too long. The previous resident cancels their contract as of the handover date. Wait weeks or months and the grid operator can flag you as an "unknown user," which can lead to expensive default rates or, in extreme cases, disconnection. Registering within one to two weeks is the safe rule of thumb.

How quickly should you arrange each one?

Electricity + gas. Ideally a few weeks before you move, or around the handover at the latest. You give your supplier the move-in date plus the starting readings, and the rest is handled administratively.

Water. Usually already running. Register with the regional water company (Evides in the Rotterdam area; Vitens, PWN, Brabant Water and others elsewhere) and pass on the meter reading. Billing runs from your move-in date.

Internet. Start this one first, because it can involve a physical installation or activation. Here's how the options compare.

Internet: your options and lead times

Rule of thumb: fibre > cable > copper for speed and future-proofing. But the practical choice often comes down to what's available at your address and how soon you need to be online.

In short: the smart order of things