FAQ Move-In Connect – Move House With Ease
How Easy Are Move-In Connect’s Moving Utilities Services?
Our team of moving experts will make connecting utility services really easy by doing all the hard work for you! When you connect your utilities, we find the best deal for your new home or business by comparing energy plans from Australia’s top providers. This saves you money. Then, on the date you choose, we will set up the connections for you.
We are a Melbourne-based comparison and connection service and operate throughout Australia. Whenever you call, you will speak to one of our Melbourne-based experts to help make moving house utilities a breeze.
Which Electricity and Gas Providers Does Move-In Connect Use to Connect Utilities?
Our preferred energy providers for your electricity and gas connections include:
- EnergyAustralia
- ActewAGL
- Covau
- Tango Energy
- Blue NRG (for business utility services)
- Energy Locals
which internet providers does move-in connect use?
We have carefully selected our panel of suppliers to make sure you connect utility and internet plans with Australia’s leading providers.
Our preferred internet providers include:
can move-in connect help with more than arranging to connect utility plans?
Yes! We want to make your move as easy as possible. As part of our free service, not only will we compare and connect your gas and electricity connections, internet plans and Foxtel.
Why Should I Connect Through Move-In Connect Instead of My Real Estate Utility Provider?
Move-In Connect provides moving utilities services that give customers an unbiased perspective about their energy connections to match you with the best deal in the market when you connect utilities. We compare and offer you the best available plan for your electricity and gas, broadband and mobile from our preferred providers.
By choosing to move your utilities with Move-In Connect, you could make substantial savings on your utility bills in the long term.
I Received a Call From My Real Estate Utility Provider to Switch Through Them
I Want to Move My Utilities, How Do I Get Started?
To plan your move, simply enter your details online or call us on 1300 786 045. One of our Melbourne-based utilities connection experts will discuss your needs with you to find and compare electricity, gas, NBN and Pay TV plans and get them connected before your moving day. Our moving utilities services are 10% free of charge.
What Happens After I Submit My Application?
After you lodge your application and provide consent for us to contact you, we will call to verify your request. This is a short call to make sure you’re comfortable with us acting on your behalf and to confirm you are happy with the services and suppliers you have chosen.
When the call is complete we will contact your chosen suppliers to action your requests. After we’ve spoken to you, we will send you an email outlining the next steps for each service you have selected so you’ll know exactly what is going to happen every step of the way. There are no surprises when you connect utilities with Move-In Connect!
Why Does Move-In Connect Ask for Personal Details Like ID Type and Date of Birth?
Move-In Connect collects identification details so we, and the service providers we work with, can set up your accounts and verify your identity.
Move-In Connect does not sell any information about our customers to third parties. We may also use your contact details to communicate with you about the services we provide, but we seek your consent before doing so.
If you do not wish to receive marketing communications from us about products and services, please let us know by writing to us at privacy@pops.smartleading.net.
Click here to see our Privacy Policy.
Do I Need to Switch Providers When I Move House?
If you are happy with your current providers, you might be able to connect utilities with them when you move home electricity. This will depend if they offer their services in your new area. It’s important to remember that your provider might have different plans and rates in your new area that might be more expensive than your current plan.
Moving home is a good time to compare electricity and gas to see if there is a better deal available that can save you money.
Can I Cancel or Change My Connection Request?
If you need to amend your connection request, we are usually able to accommodate changes if we are notified at least three business days before the agreed connection date. Please contact us on 1300 786 045 to request a change.
Your new provider will also give you a ten-day ‘cooling-off’ period, which means you have ten days to change your mind and go back to your old supplier if you change your mind. Alternatively, once you receive your welcome pack you can call your Energy Retailer or Internet provider directly.
How Do I Know I Can Trust Move-In Connect?
Move-In Connect is powered by CheapBills, an Australian-owned and operated company that has helped over 100,000 families save money on their utility bills. CheapBills was established as an online comparison website in 2013 and our mother company, Integral Resource Group, has been servicing Australian companies since 2011.
We take your privacy very seriously. Any private information you share with us is only shared with your chosen providers. Read more about our Privacy Policy here.
Where Are Move-In Connect Based?
We are a Melbourne-based utility connection service, operating throughout Australia. Our head office is in Flinders Street, Melbourne.
What Should I Do Before Moving to a New Property?
Before you move into a new property, there are a range of tasks you should complete, including calling Move-In Connect to arrange to connect utilities, booking a cleaner and forwarding your mail. Read our Moving Tips for a comprehensive guide to moving house.
Who Should I Contact Before Moving into My New Property?
Does Move-In Connect Charge a Fee?
How Does Move-In Connect Make Money?
Move-In Connect receives a commission from the energy retailer or telecommunications retailer when you connect your services to them. This means we can offer our expert advice and services to customers completely free of charge. Connect now to find the best plan for your energy connections by calling 1300 786 045.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET A NEW ELECTRICITY CONNECTION IN AUSTRALIA?
Normal connection times are between 2 to 3 business days, but you should give your new provider at least 5 business days’ notice to avoid delays. Call Move-In Connect immediately if you need a same-day connection.
It could take longer if you are moving to a new build or development. Read more about connection timelines here: How long does it take to connect electricity to my new home?
WHO WILL PROVIDE MY NEW PLAN?
We have carefully selected a panel of some of Australia’s leading retailers so we can match you with a plan that suits your needs.
Our panel includes:
- EnergyAustralia
- ActewAGL
- Covau
- Tango Energy
- Blue NRG
- Energy Locals
WHAT DOCUMENTS ARE REQUIRED FOR A NEW ELECTRICITY CONNECTION IN AUSTRALIA?
You will need to supply proof of identification and proof of address to set up an account with a new electricity provider.
As part of our free service, our experts will help you verify your documents and connect electricity online to make the process simple and stress-free.
If you need a new meter installed, you will need to work with your builder or electrician to submit a Request for Work to the relevant distributor to arrange connecting electricity to new house.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO GET A NEW ELECTRICITY CONNECTION IN AUSTRALIA?
The cost of setting up electricity in your new home depends on the distribution area you are moving to, the retailer you choose and if you are moving to an existing home or a new build.
Read more about the charges here: Fees for connecting electricity to new house.
HOW DO I ARRANGE FOR A NEW ELECTRICITY CONNECTION AT MY NEW HOME IN AUSTRALIA?
There are several approaches you can take to moving home electricity. The easiest option is to call Move-In Connect and we can find you a great deal on your new electricity plan from our panel of preferred suppliers and arrange the electricity connection for new house as part of our free service.
Alternatively, you can contact an electricity retailer directly, or talk to your property manager or builder for recommendations about moving electricity connections to a new provider.
CAN I TRANSFER MY CURRENT PLAN WHEN MOVING HOME ELECTRICITY TO MY NEW PROPERTY IN AUSTRALIA?
When moving electricity connections to a new home, you may be able to keep your current electricity providers if they offer services in your new area. However, moving home is a great time to compare electricity plans available on the market. Your current plan might not be the cheapest deal for your new home, so we recommend comparing providers before you commit to a new contract.
Moving electricity connections with Move-In Connect is 100% free. Our team will compare electricity plans from our panel of providers and recommend the best deal for your new home (even if it’s your current provider!)
WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR DISCONNECTING ELECTRICITY AT MY OLD HOME IN AUSTRALIA?
You should contact your current energy provider to arrange a disconnection date for the day after you plan to move out. This will avoid paying any extra electricity or gas charges for days when you are no longer living in the property.
On the disconnection date, your current provider will take a meter reading to supply you with a final bill. It’s a good idea to also take a meter reading yourself when moving home electricity, in case any discrepancies on your bill arise.
WHAT DOES AN ELECTRICITY METER NUMBER LOOK LIKE?
A National Meter Identifier (NMI) is a unique identifier for your electricity meter. To identify your NMI, look for a 10 or 11-digit number on your bill. If you are in Queensland, it might be prefixed with two letters.
Find out more here: How to take a meter reading when moving electricity and gas.
WHY DOES THE METER NEED TO BE IN THE OFF POSITION?
When the technician completes an electricity connection for new house, the meter needs to be in the off position for a successful connection. If your meter is left in the on position, there is a risk that your power will fail to connect.
CAN I CHANGE MY METER TYPE?
You can change and upgrade your meter type by contacting your electricity distributor. Upgrading your meter to a smart meter means you can access cheaper off-peak rates from your electricity provider, which can lead to big savings.
If you live in Victoria, you should have already upgraded to a smart meter as they have been made compulsory in the state. When you compare electricity plans, make sure you look at the off-peak rates to maximise the savings from your meter.
WHAT ARE MY ELECTRICITY MAIN SWITCHES?
Main switches can be found in the meter box and secondary switches can be found inside your property. The main switch controls all the electric supply going into your home.
WHY DOESN’T THE ELECTRICITY COMPANY SWITCH MY MAIN SWITCH ON?
Most of the time your main electricity switch is located inside your property which means it will be inaccessible by the technician turning on your power.
In cases where the main switch is accessible by the technician, they will not turn the main switch as a safety precaution, as they cannot ensure that all of your appliances are switched off before turning on the main switch.
WHY ARE THE VISUAL INSPECTION (VI) TIMES SO LONG?
Electricity distributors regulate the visual safety inspection process and timeframes are dependent on the availability of technicians in your area.
You are only required to be at home if the power has been disconnected. In this case, if no one can attend a visual inspection between the hours of either 8am – 1pm or 1pm – 6pm, keys to your property can be left in the meter box as a last resort if the property is completely vacant.
WHAT IS THE TIMEFRAME FOR SAME DAY CONNECTIONS?
If you have lodged a request for an electricity connection same day, your connection will occur any time between when your request was confirmed and midnight.
You should be aware that there are often fees payable for same day power connections. These “electricity connection same day” fees vary between providers, but can be as high as $400.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST FOR A SAME DAY POWER CONNECTION?
Most retailers charge a fee for a same day power connection due to the extra work involved in completing an electricity connection same day.
The “electricity connection same day” fee can be as much as $400.
WHAT IS AN EMBEDDED NETWORK?
An embedded network is a privately owned and managed network that supplies electricity to all premises within a specific area or building. Embedded networks are commonly found in apartment complexes, caravan parks, nursing homes and shopping centres. Mostly new apartments and commercial buildings in the CBD of Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane are embedded in networks.
They work by buying electricity in bulk from a retailer and on-selling it to customers. If you are moving electricity connections into a new apartment building, please check with a Move-In Connect expert to find out if you will be part of an embedded network.
We can also help you connect to super-fast 4G and 5G Optus wireless broadband for your internet needs, instead of relying on the building’s slow internet.
WHAT DO I DO IF I HAVE LIFE SUPPORT IN THE PROPERTY?
Move-In Connect receives a commission from the energy retailer or telecommunications retailer when you connect your services to them. This means we can offer our expert advice and services to customers completely free of charge. Connect now to find the best plan for your energy connections by calling 1300 786 045.
WHAT HAPPENS TO MY OLD CONNECTION WHEN I MOVE HOME IN AUSTRALIA?
After you notify your provider of your move-out date, they will issue a final statement and the electricity will be transferred into the name of the new resident.
CAN I GET AN ELECTRICITY ACCOUNT EVEN IF I AM RENTING IN AUSTRALIA?
You need to check the terms of your lease agreement if you are renting. In some cases, electricity is included in your rent, so you do not need to arrange an electricity plan. In other cases, you will be responsible for connecting electricity to your rental home.
Read more here: How do I connect electricity and gas in my new rental?
CAN I GET A SOLAR ELECTRICITY PLAN IN AUSTRALIA?
Yes! Talk to a Move-In Connect expert about the latest solar rebates and offers to get solar power connected to your new home.
To decide if solar is right for you you need to consider several factors.
- The upfront costs – initially your savings will be reduced while you pay off your solar system.
- The size of the system you need – is it possible to power your energy consumption with solar?
- How much energy you use during the day vs night – will you need a battery to make solar panels worthwhile?
- The climate – so you live in an area where solar generation will be optimised?
- The feasibility of installing panels in a prime location on your property.
Our panel of electricity providers have a great range of solar energy plans, including high solar feed-in tariffs (FiTs) so you can earn money from the excess energy you generate.
WHAT IS THE PROCESS FOR GETTING ELECTRICITY IN A NEW DEVELOPMENT IN AUSTRALIA?
If you are moving into a new development, you might need to arrange new poles and pipes and a new electricity meter. This can take up to 4 weeks, so make sure you start planning in plenty of time.
Read more here: Important information to connect electricity.
HOW DO I APPLY FOR A NEW GAS CONNECTION?
A gas new connection usually takes slightly longer than it does to arrange your electricity connection. The first step is to cancel your existing property’s gas connection by contacting your energy provider. If you are moving home, you can either request that your current provider move your gas connection or give Move-In Connect a call to find a cheaper option for your new gas plan.
Read more about the process to apply for gas connections here: Gas New Connection Guide.
WHO WILL PROVIDE MY GAS CONNECTION FOR NEW HOUSE?
There are dozens of energy providers that offer great deals and bundles to connect to gas throughout Australia. If you move with Move-In Connect, we will compare plans for ActewAGL, Covau, Tango Energy and Energy Australia gas connections. We have carefully selected our preferred providers based on their great value and top-quality customer service.
HOW DO I ARRANGE A NEW GAS CONNECTION?
You have three options when you are planning to move your gas connection. Move-In Connect can help you find a better gas plan from our panel of energy providers. Our consultant will find you a suitable gas connection based on your previous usage and the number of people living in the house. Our service is 100% free of charge and makes moving utilities hassle-free. Alternatively, you can go directly to an energy retailer offering gas services, or lastly, you can take recommendations from your property manager or builder.
Read more about the process to apply for gas connections here: Gas New Connection Guide.
WHAT IS THE CONNECTION PROCESS?
The steps below are an overview of a typical connection process. This may vary for your particular situation. You should talk to your retailer, distributor or a local gas fitter for a more thorough view of the connection process for your home.
The cost of the connection process varies depending on where you live and the complexity of the work required, so make sure you agree on a quote before the work commences.
- Service line and meter installation (if required)
If you are building or moving to a home that has never had gas, you will need to contact a gas fitter to arrange a quote and discuss your preferred meter location.
This needs to be completed 20 days before you move to make sure you have gas when you arrive, so contact a gas fitter, or arrange with your builder, in plenty of time. You will need to let them know which appliance you want to power with gas.
If your new home can be connected to the mains, your builder will lodge a request with the network distributor to install a service line or gas pipes from the street to your property. If there is no natural gas, you might be able to connect to LPG (bottled) gas.
The service line installation can take up to 20 days and must be completed before the meter can be installed.
After that, the distributor will arrange the meter installation – make sure you discuss your preferred meter location so that they can incorporate this in the build and arrange it with the gas fitter and distributor.
- Choose your provider and plan
To find the best value plan for your home you need to consider your unique energy needs. When comparing plans, you should look for low rates, energy bundles, flexible payment options, no lock-in contacts, no exit fees and rewards and incentives that suit your lifestyle, such as pay-on-time discounts or reward points.
Move-In Connect can do all the hard work for you by comparing plans from our panel of preferred providers to find you a great deal. Simply call 1300 786 045 to connect now.
- Book a connection date
Once you have chosen your provider, you need to give at least 5 business days’ notice for your connection. You can book your connection date as early as possible (up to 20 days in advance if you can) so that any unforeseen issues or delays can be dealt with. Don’t worry – when you move with Move-In Connect, we’ll take care of it all for you!
- Disconnect your current energy (if required)
Make sure to tell your current provider that you are moving so that they can issue a final bill and take a gas meter reading on the final day in your old house.
Read our guide for more information about the connection process.
CAN I CHOOSE MY PREFERRED METER LOCATION?
An important part of the connection process is deciding on your preferred meter location. Your gas fitter or distributor will be able to advise you about the best places to install the gas meter.
The meter will need to be on the outside of your house in an easily accessible area so that a meter reading can be conducted. A lot of people opt to have the meter close to the electricity meter for convenience.
If you have a specific preferred meter location in mind, it’s important to discuss this with your builder or gas fitter early in the process so they can consider any potential issues and give you advice about an alternative location if necessary.
HOW MUCH IS A TYPICAL GAS BILL?
On average, a gas connection Melbourne is around $200 per month. However, this can vary depending on where you live, your gas distributor and how much gas you use.
Your retailer and plan also affect how much you pay. To check if you are getting a good deal, give us a call and we will see if there is a cheaper option available from our panel of energy providers. We will compare plans for ActewAGL, Covau, Tango Energy and Energy Australia gas connections.
Find out more about the cost of an average gas bill here: Gas Quick Connect Guide: Average Bill.
HOW DO I CHECK THE PROGRESS OF MY GAS CONNECTION?
To check the progress on your new gas connection you can call the energy retailer directly after you receive the welcome email. Alternatively, you can ring your gas distributor. The connection can take anywhere between 2-5 business days to connect gas to houses and business premises.
GAS QUICK CONNECT: CAN I GET A SAME-DAY GAS CONNECTION FOR NEW HOUSE?
If your property has an existing gas supply, it may be possible to arrange an urgent connection. Depending on your retailer, there may be a fee involved of up to $400.
If you need a new gas connection, including a meter and connection to the grid, you will need to give up to 20 business days’ notice.
Read more about the gas installation process here: Gas Quick Connect Guide
CAN I TRUST MOVE-IN CONNECT WITH MY GAS CONNECTION FOR NEW HOUSE?
Move-In Connect is an Australian-owned utility connection service based in our head office in Flinders St, Melbourne. This gives us local expertise to help you find a great deal for your gas connection Melbourne and throughout Australia.
We are powered by CheapBills, which was established in 2013, helping over 200,000 Australians find a great deal on their utilities.
When you move with us, we only work with Australia’s leading energy providers. We will compare plans for ActewAGL, Covau, Tango Energy and Energy Australia gas connections and energy bundles.
To find out more, take a look at our outstanding reviews on Google and Trustpilot, or visit our About Us page.
DO I NEED TO CONTACT MY CURRENT ENERGY PROVIDER FOR GAS BEFORE I MOVE?
Yes, if you have a separate energy company for your gas connection. You need to disconnect your gas at your existing premise by calling your energy provider. If you are looking to find a cheaper deal for your electricity and gas, call Move-In Connect. We can potentially bundle your electricity and gas with one energy retailer to save you the hassle of getting bills from two energy providers.
ARE THERE DIFFERENT TYPES OF GAS METERS?
There are two types of gas meters in Australia:
- Metric meter. These meters display the units of natural gas in cubic metres (m3). These are the most common types of meters.
- Imperial meter. These meters display the units of natural gas in cubic feet (ft3). Imperial meters are currently being phased out and replaced with metric meters.
WHERE CAN I FIND MY GAS METER?
If you are moving home, make sure you locate your gas meter by asking your real estate agent or vendors to show you where it is. It is usually next to the house on the front left corner, however, this can vary. You will need to know where your meter is in order to arrange a gas connection for new houses.
If you are renting a new property, your landlord or real estate agent should show you where to find your gas meter.
HOW DO I READ MY GAS METER?
To read a metric meter, read the digits from left to right, including any zeros at the beginning. Any digits in red after the decimal point are for testing purposes only and shouldn’t be read.
To read an imperial meter, read the clock faces from left to right. If the pointer is between two numbers, record the lower one. This reading will be in cubic feet, which will be converted to cubic metres on your gas bill.
Read more about meter readings when you connect gas to houses here: Importance Of Meter Readings When Connecting Gas To House
WHAT IS AN ESTIMATED GAS BILL?
You might receive an estimated gas bill if your meter hasn’t been read. This can happen because the meter reader couldn’t access your meter or because you haven’t supplied the reading.
If you are not happy with the amount on the estimated bill, you should contact your gas supplier.
Read more about the importance of meter readings to check your estimated bill here: Gas Quick Connect Guide
CONNECTING GAS TO HOUSE WHEN RENTING
There are two options when connecting gas to houses as a tenant. In some instances, your utilities will be included in your rent, in which case you do not need to do a thing.
In most cases, however, it is up to you to find an energy plan to connect gas, electricity and the internet. For expert advice to help find a great deal, call Move-In Connect. We will compare plans for ActewAGL, Covau, Tango Energy and Energy Australia gas connections and energy bundles to find you a great deal for your rental.
Read more about connecting gas to houses as a tenant here: Guide For Renters: Gas Connection For New House.