Real NEastate: How do I shut off my utilities?

Q: I finally sold my house and I’m moving Harrisburg to get married and start a new job. It took a while to get there, but we’ll be making settlement at the end of the month. What do I have to do to tie up lose ends here? Can I do it all online?

A:  Congratulations on the sale of your home, your engagement and your new job! Three of your most stressful life events are taking place at once. Preparation will help you through it.

The settlement company will make sure your water and gas bill are made current, and any unpaid balances must be paid at the settlement table. The buyer is responsible for making arrangements to switch service the day of settlement. But in case the new owner doesn’t get to it right away, let the utility companies know when to stop service.

There are some websites that make it easier.

1. Schedule PECO to shut off your service for the day after settlement.
2. Schedule PGW to shut off your service for the day after settlement.
3. Don’t forget to make arrangements for your mail get forwarded to your new address.
4. Comcast has movers’ tools to switch your service to your new address.
5. Be sure to have your internet and phone service shut off, too. Check your carrier’s website to see if there is a way to do it online.

Stacey McCarthy is a real estate agent with the McCarthy Group of Keller Williams. Her Real NEastate column appears every Wednesday on NEastPhilly.com. See others here. Read other NEast Philly columns here.