Moving into a new home is exciting. But sitting in the dark because you forgot to transfer the power? Not so much.
If you are moving to Fort Worth from out of state (or even just from Dallas), you might find that things work a little differently here. We have a unique mix of city-run services and open-market choices.
As Fort Worth movers, we have seen it all. We know that the only thing more stressful than packing boxes is dealing with paperwork. This guide cuts through the noise. Here are the exact names, numbers, and timelines you need to get your Fort Worth home running, so you can focus on the fun part—settling in.
The “When to Call” Timeline
Don’t wait until the moving truck is in the driveway to make these calls.
- 2 Weeks Before Moving: Call Internet and Natural Gas providers. (These often need a technician to come out, and appointments fill up fast).
- 1 Week Before Moving: Set up Water, Trash, and Electricity.
- Moving Day: Have a “Safety Box” ready with flashlights, chargers, and fresh batteries—just in case.
Electricity: The “Power to Choose”
This is the biggest shock for new residents. In Fort Worth, you cannot buy electricity directly from the utility company. Texas has a deregulated market, which means you have to shop around.
- The Utility Company (Oncor): These are the folks who own the power lines and meters. If your power goes out during a storm, you call Oncor. But you do not pay them directly.
- The Retail Provider: This is who you pay (companies like Reliant, TXU, Green Mountain, etc.).
How to set it up: Don’t use third-party broker sites that might overcharge you. Go to PowerToChoose.org. This is the official state website where you can compare rates objectively.
Firefighter Safety Tip:
“When you first walk into your new home, find the breaker box immediately. Label the switches if they aren’t marked. In an emergency, you don’t want to be guessing which switch kills the power to the kitchen.”
Water, Sewer & Trash: City of Fort Worth
Unlike electricity, water and trash are simple. They are handled directly by the City of Fort Worth.
- Who to call: City of Fort Worth Water Department
- Phone: 817-392-4477
- Online: Visit the Fort Worth Water website to [Request New Service].
What to expect: There is usually a standard activation fee (around $20) and a security deposit ($50), though the deposit is sometimes waived if you have a letter of credit.
Trash & Recycling Rules: Fort Worth uses a color-coded cart system:
- Brown Cart: Weekly trash pickup.
- Blue Cart: Weekly recycling (paper, plastic bottles, cans).
- Bulk Waste: This is a big one for movers! Bulk trash (furniture, big branches) is picked up once a month. Check your specific week on the city website so you aren’t stuck with a pile of old junk on your curb for weeks.
Natural Gas: Atmos Energy
Most of Tarrant County is served by one provider for natural gas.
- Who to call: Atmos Energy
- Phone: 888-286-6700
Important Note: Call this one early! If the gas was turned off at the main line, a technician must enter your home to inspect it before turning it back on. They will not turn it on if no one is home.
Firefighter Safety Alert:
“If you smell ‘rotten eggs’ while you are unpacking, stop immediately. That is a gas leak. Leave the house, go across the street, and call 911. Do not flip light switches on or off, as the spark could ignite the gas.”
Internet & Cable
Fort Worth has great coverage, but the provider depends on your specific street.
- AT&T Fiber: Widely available in Fort Worth proper and many suburbs.
- Spectrum: The primary cable internet provider for most of the area.
- Frontier: Common in North Fort Worth and Keller areas.
Pro Tip: Schedule your internet installation for the day after your move-in. You don’t want the technician tripping over movers (or vice versa) while carrying heavy boxes.
The “First Night” Safety Checklist
As firefighters, safety is our job. When you are sleeping in a new home for the first time, take five minutes to check these three things:
- Smoke Detectors: New homes often have old batteries in the detectors. We recommend buying fresh 9-volt batteries and changing all of them on day one.
- Dryer Vents: Before you hook up your dryer, check the vent hose in the wall. Lint buildup from the previous owner is a major fire hazard.
- Fire Extinguishers: You probably packed yours in a box somewhere. Find it and put it in the kitchen where you can reach it easily.
Ready to Move?
Setting up utilities is the mental heavy lifting. Let us handle the actual heavy lifting.
Whether you need help with residential moving or just need some extra hands for packing services, we are here to make your transition to Fort Worth safe and smooth.
Welcome to the neighborhood!
