How to Set Up or Transfer Utilities Such as Water, Electricity, and Gas for a Property?

Okay, no problem! Setting up water, electricity, and gas in Japan might sound complicated, but the process is actually quite clear. Just take it step by step. I went through this myself when I moved, so I'll share my experience to help you out.

How to Set Up or Transfer Water, Electricity, and Gas Services

In Japan, whether you're buying a new or used property, you need to sign new contracts for utilities like water, electricity, and gas in your own name. This process is called "開栓手続き" (Kaisen Tetsuzuki), meaning activation procedures.

Don't worry, it's not difficult. Most of it can be done online or over the phone.

Things to Know Before Setting Up/Transferring

Before contacting the utility companies, gather this information to make things smoother:

New Address (新住所): Include the exact building and room number.
Your Name (契約者名): Use the Romanized spelling (Romaji) or Kanji as it appears on your passport or residence card.
Contact Phone Number (連絡先電話番号): A Japanese mobile number where you can be reached.
Desired Start Date (使用開始希望日): Usually your move-in date.
Payment Method (支払い方法): Typically automatic payment via credit card or bank account. If you don't have these set up yet, you can choose to receive bills by mail and pay at convenience stores.

Pro tip from someone who's been there: During the property handover, be sure to ask the real estate agent or previous owner for the latest utility bills (検針票 - meter reading slips). These contain the "お客様番号" (Customer Number) and supplier information. Having this makes the transfer process much faster!

Step 1: Setting Up Electricity (電気)

Electricity is the simplest of the three because Japan's electricity market is deregulated, meaning you can choose your provider.

Choose an Electricity Company
- Major Traditional Companies: Like Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO), Kansai Electric Power (KEPCO), etc. Reliable service, but prices might not be the cheapest.
- Newer Providers: Like Looop Denki, Rakuten Denki, etc. Often offer better rates and may bundle with mobile plans or Rakuten points for extra discounts. Choose based on your lifestyle.
- Not sure which to pick? Ask your real estate agent for the default electricity company in your area. Starting with them is fine, and you can switch providers anytime later.
Apply for Activation
- Online application is easiest. Go to the website of your chosen electricity company and find the "お引越し手続き" (Moving Procedures) or "新規お申し込み" (New Application) section.
- Fill in the information you prepared above as prompted on the website.
- The whole process takes about 10 minutes. No technician visit is required for electricity activation.
On Move-in Day
- After moving in, find your circuit breaker panel (ブレーカー). It's usually a small box near the entrance or bathroom.
- Flip all switches to the "入" or "ON" position. Power should come on!

(This is what the circuit breaker looks like. Just flip the switches up.)

Step 2: Setting Up Gas (ガス) - This Requires an Appointment!

Gas requires the most attention because it involves safety. A technician MUST visit to activate it.

Confirm Gas Type and Company
- Japan has two main gas types: 都市ガス (Toshi Gas - City Gas/Piped Natural Gas) and LPガス (プロパンガス, Propane Gas - LPG). City Gas is piped and cheaper; LPG is tank-based and more expensive.
- Your gas type and supplier are fixed; you cannot choose. Crucially confirm the company name (e.g., "Tokyo Gas" or "Osaka Gas") with your real estate agent.
Schedule the Technician Visit (立ち会い - Tachiai)
- Book at least one week in advance via the gas company's website or phone. Since a technician needs to visit, you must schedule a specific time slot.
- When booking, provide your personal details and desired activation date. They will offer available time slots (e.g., 9 AM - 12 PM, 1 PM - 3 PM).
- This is critical: You, a family member, or a friend MUST be present on the activation day!
On Activation Day
- The technician will arrive at the scheduled time, perform safety checks, and test appliances like the stove and water heater.
- They will explain basic operations and safety precautions (e.g., automatic shut-off during earthquakes).
- The process takes about 20-30 minutes. After signing for confirmation, your gas will be activated.

Step 3: Setting Up Water (水道)

Water is managed by local Water Bureaus (水道局 - Suidōkyoku), a public utility. There's no choice of provider.

Find Your Local Water Bureau
- The easiest way is to Google "[Your City Name] 水道局". For example, search "東京都水道局" for Tokyo.
Apply for Activation
- Online Application: Go to the Water Bureau website, find the "使用開始の手続き" (Start of Service Procedure), and fill in your details.
- Phone Application: Call the Water Bureau directly to apply.
- Mail Application: Sometimes, a "水道使用開始申込書" (Water Service Start Application) postcard will be in your new mailbox. Fill it out and mail it back.
On Move-in Day
- Water is usually not disconnected. Simply turn on a faucet; water should flow.
- If there's no water, check the water meter box outside (usually a blue or metal cover on the ground). Open it and ensure the main valve is turned on (open).

Summary & Additional Tips

Best Order to Apply: Gas (needs appointment) → Electricity → Water. Get the trickiest one (gas) booked first.
Timing: Start the process 1-2 weeks before moving in, especially during peak moving season (March-April), when gas company appointments fill up fast.
Bundled Services: Many companies offer "Electricity + Gas" bundles. Signing up together can save you money.
Ask Your Real Estate Agent: If you're unsure or not fluent in Japanese, don't hesitate to ask your real estate agent for help. They are experienced and might even handle the procedures for you.
When Moving Out: Remember to also complete the "解約手続き" (Cancellation Procedure) when you move out. The process is similar to activation and ensures you pay for your final usage period.

Once you've got these sorted, you can relax with a hot shower and cook a warm meal in your new home! Best wishes for your new life in Japan!