Georgia New Renter Utilities Setup: Complete Checklist & Resources

Moving into a new rental in Georgia comes with a long to-do list. One of the most important tasks is getting your utilities—like electricity, water, and internet—up and running. Without them, your new home simply won't feel move-in ready. This utilities setup checklist will help Georgia renters navigate the process, understand their rights, and avoid common pitfalls.

Understanding Utility Responsibility in Georgia Rentals

In Georgia, rental agreements should clearly state which utilities are included in your rent and which ones you must set up and pay for yourself. Georgia law requires landlords to disclose utility arrangements in the lease. If you're unsure, always check your signed agreement or ask your landlord for clarification.

Essential Utilities for Georgia Renters

• Electricity (Georgia Power, local EMCs)
• Water and Sewer (municipal providers or private companies)
• Natural Gas (Atlanta Gas Light, local gas marketers)
• Trash and Recycling (city or county agencies)
• Internet, Cable, or Phone (various private providers)

Your rental's address and location will determine your providers. Contact them at least 1–2 weeks before move-in to avoid delays.

Step-by-Step Utilities Setup Checklist

1. Confirm with Your Landlord

• Check which utilities you are responsible for. Get it in writing if possible.

2. Gather Required Documents & Fees

• Government-issued photo ID
• Your new lease/rental agreement
• Social Security Number
• Security deposit or connection fee (may be required by utility company)

3. Contact Utility Providers

• Find your providers using Georgia Public Service Commission’s utility search tool.
• Schedule services for your move-in date, or as soon as allowed.

4. Document Utility Meter Readings on Move-In Day

• Take clear photos of all meters and keep them for your records.
• Share readings with your property manager and utility companies to avoid being billed for previous tenants' usage.

5. Complete the Move-In Inspection Report

• Fill out Georgia’s Move-In/Move-Out Inspection Form if provided by your landlord.
• If your landlord requires it, return the completed form within 3 business days.

6. Set Up Auto-Pay or Online Bill Access

• Sign up for online accounts for each provider to manage bills and avoid late or missed payments.

Required Forms and Where to Find Them

• Move-In/Move-Out Inspection Form (download here)
  Use this form to document property and utility condition at move-in and move-out. Submit it to your landlord as required to help protect your security deposit.
• Utility Application Forms (various providers):
  Each utility provider in Georgia has its own sign-up application—typically found on their website. Complete the application and provide required documentation to set up service.

Relevant Tribunal, Board, and Legislation

• Georgia Magistrate Court handles landlord-tenant disputes, including those about essential services.
• Georgia Landlord-Tenant Act (O.C.G.A. Title 44, Chapter 7) sets out rights and responsibilities for utility disclosures and habitability.

Georgia law states landlords must maintain electrical, heating, and running water (including hot water), except where otherwise agreed in writing. If essential utilities aren't provided or working, contact your landlord in writing first, and document all communication for your protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What if the utility is still in the landlord’s name?
   If the lease states you are responsible, contact the provider to switch the account to your name. Advise your landlord and confirm in writing to avoid billing confusion.
2. Does my landlord have to provide utilities?
   Georgia law requires landlords to maintain essential services like electric and water unless your lease says otherwise. If these aren’t working, notify the landlord in writing and give them a reasonable time to fix the issue.
3. Can my landlord shut off utilities for nonpayment?
   No. Landlords may not intentionally shut off vital utility services as a means to force payment or eviction, per Georgia tenancy law.¹
4. Do I need to complete a move-in inspection form?
   Your landlord must offer a move-in/move-out inspection form if collecting a security deposit. Completing this form helps document property and utility conditions at the start and end of your lease.
5. How do I find my water, gas, or power provider?
   Use your city or county website, ask your landlord, or visit the Georgia Public Service Commission provider list for current, official contacts.

Key Takeaways for Georgia Renters

• Confirm and document your utility responsibilities at move-in
• Use official Georgia forms, like the Move-In/Move-Out Inspection Form, to protect your rights
• Contact your providers and landlord promptly if you experience any utility service issues

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Georgia Magistrate Court: Rental and tenancy dispute info, filing process
• Georgia Department of Community Affairs Landlord-Tenant Manual: Plain-language guide to your rights
• Georgia Public Service Commission: Utility company search, consumer help, regulatory complaints

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1. Georgia Code Title 44, Chapter 7 – Landlord and Tenant, Section 44-7-14.1
2. Georgia Move-In/Move-Out Inspection Form
3. Georgia Landlord-Tenant Handbook (2024)
4. Georgia Public Service Commission – Find Utilities

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