How to Set Up Utilities in Your New Chicago Apartment
Moving into a new apartment in Chicago is exciting, especially when you’re settling into one of our city’s vibrant neighborhoods like Lakeview, Lincoln Park, Gold Coast, or West Loop. Whether you’re relocating across the city or moving to Chicago for the first time, setting up your utilities is a crucial step to ensure your home is move-in ready.
At
Reside Living, residents enjoy convenience, connectivity, and support, but understanding your utilities is key to a smooth transition.
Understand Which Utilities You’re Responsible For
Before setting anything up, review your lease or connect with your leasing team to confirm what is included with your apartment. In Chicago apartments, utilities are often split between what’s included and what residents manage themselves. Typically in Chicago:
Included: Water, trash, and sometimes heat
Resident responsibility: Electricity, cooking gas, and internet
Chicago apartment communities vary by building style. Whether you're in a vintage
Lakeview walk-up or a modern
Gold Coast high-rise. It’s always important to confirm what applies to your specific apartment and neighborhood.
Identify Chicago’s Main Utility Providers
Unlike some cities, Chicago has designated providers for key utilities. This simplifies your setup process since you won’t need to shop around much. Chicago providers include:
Electricity:
ComEd
Natural Gas: Peoples Gas
Water & Trash: City of Chicago
Internet/Cable: Xfinity and more
Most Reside Living apartments are already wired for major internet providers, making setup quick and straightforward. When you move into your new Reside home, our team will confirm which utility providers serve your apartment building to prepare you for your move-in date.
Set Up Utilities Before Move-In Day
Timing matters more than people expect. Ideally, you should start setting up utilities 2–3 weeks before your move-in date to avoid delays.
Here’s a simple checklist:
- Confirm required utilities with your leasing office
- Create accounts with each provider
- Schedule activation for your move-in date
- Prepare documents (ID, lease, payment method)
Pro Tip: Internet installations may require appointments, so book early!
To make sure you aren't sitting in an empty apartment without Wi-Fi, try to get your appointments booked ahead. It’s one of those things that’s way better to have checked off early.
Take Advantage of Reside Living Convenience
One of the biggest advantages of living with Reside Living is the built-in support system.
Residents benefit from:
- Concierge-style service and support
- Access to neighborhood resources and recommendations
- Walkable locations near transit, shops, and dining
If you’re unsure about utility setup, your leasing or concierge team can often point you in the right direction or provide provider details specific to your building.
Test Everything on Move-In Day
Once you arrive at your new Reside apartment, take a few minutes to make sure everything is working properly. Check:
- Lights and outlets
- Heating or cooling systems
- Water pressure and temperature
- Internet connection
Catching issues early ensures a smoother first week and helps you avoid billing confusion later.
Make Your Move to Chicago Seamless
Setting up utilities might not be the most exciting part of moving, but it’s one of the most important. With a little planning and support from our Reside team, you can focus on what really matters: enjoying your new Chicago apartment and exploring everything Chicago has to offer.
From lakefront living in
Lincoln Park and
Lakeview to bustling urban neighborhoods in
Fulton Market and
West Loop, your apartment is just the beginning of your Chicago experience.
