Moving day is a lot easier when the lights flip on, the heat works, and your internet is ready. If you are headed to Auburn Gresham, a simple plan can save you time, fees, and stress. Whether you rent or own, you just need to know who to contact and when to schedule each step. This guide walks you through every core utility so your first night feels like home. Let’s dive in.
Who provides each utility
- Electricity delivery: ComEd. You may choose a separate electricity supplier, but ComEd delivers power and handles your meter.
- Natural gas: Peoples Gas serves Chicago addresses and manages meters and safety checks.
- Water, sewer, garbage billing: City of Chicago via the unified utility bill.
- Trash and recycling pickup: City of Chicago Streets and Sanitation for 1–4 unit buildings. Buildings with 5+ units hire a private hauler.
- Internet/TV/phone: Availability varies by address. Xfinity and Astound/RCN are common, with AT&T in some areas. Always check address-level availability.
When to schedule service
- Aim to set up utilities 5–7 days before move-in.
- If a technician visit is required or meters are in locked areas, allow more time.
- Try to activate electric and gas the day before move-in so you can verify everything works.
Set up electricity with ComEd
- Request a start or transfer. Use the ComEd customer pages or call customer service to set your start date. Keep your confirmation number. ComEd customer pages
- Have basic info ready. Be prepared to provide your name, service address, start date, phone or email, and identity details if requested.
- Watch for deposit requests. Illinois has rules on when deposits can be charged and how they are handled. Review Illinois deposit rules for utilities
- Field visit needs. If power is off or the meter needs attention, ComEd may schedule a visit. Make sure someone can provide access.
Set up natural gas with Peoples Gas
- Start service online. Use the Start Energy Service form to apply and schedule your start date. Peoples Gas start service
- Prepare documents. Peoples Gas may request your SSN, date of birth, and prior address. Some customers may be billed a deposit in installments.
- Ensure meter access. A technician may need to access the meter and appliances. Coordinate with your landlord or building manager if meters are in locked rooms.
Set up water, sewer, and garbage billing
- Register with the City. Create or update your account in the City’s utility billing portal. City utility billing portal
- Understand your bill. The City issues a unified utility bill for water, sewer, and a monthly garbage fee. Rates can change, so check the City’s pages for current amounts.
- Need help or have a leak? For emergencies, contact the Department of Water Management or use 311 for service requests.
Trash and recycling basics
- City pickup covers single-family homes and buildings with 1–4 units on weekly routes.
- If you live in a 5+ unit building, your owner or management must hire a licensed private hauler.
- For new or replacement carts, missed pickups, or questions, submit a request with the City. Residential garbage collection overview
Internet, TV, and phone
- Check address-level availability. Wiring and service options vary by building and block. Use the provider’s address tool and ask about existing building wiring.
- In Auburn Gresham, Xfinity and Astound/RCN are common, with AT&T availability in some areas.
- Schedule earlier if you need a tech visit. Many providers offer self-install kits if wiring is already in place. Check Xfinity availability
Deposits, billing protections, and scams
Renters vs. owners and multi-unit buildings
- Your lease or closing documents should state which utilities you pay. Some landlords keep water or garbage in their name and include the cost in rent.
- In buildings with 5 or more units, the owner or manager typically contracts with a private hauler for trash. Ask management which utilities you must set up yourself.
- If meters are shared or in locked areas, coordinate access early to avoid delays on your start date.
Move-in checklist for Auburn Gresham
- Confirm which utilities you are responsible for in writing.
- Set start dates for electric and gas 1 day before move-in.
- Register with the City for water, sewer, and garbage billing.
- Run an internet availability check for your exact address and schedule install if needed.
- Photograph electric and gas meters at move-in and note readings.
- Save every confirmation number, appointment email, and screenshot.
- If something is not working on move-in day, call the utility and reference your request number.
When you are ready to make your move in Auburn Gresham, you deserve a smooth handoff from contract to keys to utilities. If you want local guidance on properties, timelines, and vendor coordination, connect with Brandon Samuels for personable, results-driven support.
FAQs
Who handles electricity in Auburn Gresham?
- ComEd delivers electricity and manages meters for Chicago addresses, including Auburn Gresham; you contact ComEd to start or transfer service.
How do I start gas service at a Chicago apartment?
- Apply online with Peoples Gas, provide requested identity details, and make sure a technician can access the meter and appliances on your scheduled date.
Do I need to set up water and garbage myself?
- The City of Chicago bills water, sewer, and a garbage fee on one account; register or update your account through the City’s utility billing portal.
How do trash pickups work for my building size?
- The City collects for 1–4 unit residences; buildings with 5 or more units must use a licensed private hauler arranged by the owner or manager.
What if a utility asks for a deposit?
- Illinois sets limits and refund rules for deposits; if you are asked for one, review state protections and ask about payment plans or assistance options.
