Lights working in the flat do not mean the contract question has been settled. Find out which costs are included in the rent and what you need to arrange yourself.

Record the starting data

At the handover, note the meter number, the reading and the date. Confirm with the responsible person that the meter belongs to your flat. A mistake in the number makes later reconciliation difficult, even if you chose the right tariff.

Check your previous obligations

Tell your old supplier about the planned move and find out what your contract allows. Compare a new tariff by total cost and terms, not just a one-off discount. Keep confirmations of your notifications and changes.

How to check which meter is yours

Do not identify the meter just because it is near the door or has a similar label. Match the number to your flat together with the responsible party and record the reading on the agreed date. Save the note and a photo in which the number is legible. If there is a discrepancy, resolve it before sending data to the supplier. The right tariff does not fix a meter assigned to the wrong flat. Find out separately which costs are already included in the tenancy agreement and which service arrangements you need to make yourself.

How to connect the old and the new address

Treat ending or moving the old service and starting the new one as separate tasks. Each needs a date, an address, a confirmation and a person responsible. The move itself should not be the only entry in your log. Compare offers by full cost and terms, distinguishing between an introductory discount and a recurring payment. If the handover date changes, check what information needs updating with which party. Do not assume that adjusting one contract automatically changes another.

What to check

  • Check what the rent payments include.
  • Record the meter number and reading.
  • Check the terms of your old contract.
  • Confirm the address and start date of the new service.

Example situation

If there are several meters in the basement, a photo of the whole meter cabinet does not replace confirmation of which number belongs to your flat.

Next step

Accurate starting data and an agreed move date help you avoid mix-ups between the old and the new address.

Official information on this topic

Checklists and examples are organisational recommendations. Requirements depend on the procedure, the city and your situation; check them with the relevant office before you act. Please discuss legal and tax questions with an authorised professional.

This article was prepared with the help of AI. The example illustrates the approach and does not describe a client case.