Move‑In Checklist: Water, FPC, And Utilities

Moving into Roscoe Village should feel exciting, not overwhelming. The secret is getting a few city-specific steps right so your water, Full Payment Certificate, and utilities are ready the day you get the keys. You will learn what the FPC is, how to start water service, and how to set up electric, gas, internet, and trash. Let’s dive in.

FPC: the Chicago step to start early

The Full Payment Certificate proves all water and sewer charges tied to the property are paid or not transferable. Without a valid FPC, the City will not issue the transfer-tax stamp, which blocks recording the deed and can delay closing. Review the City’s overview and instructions on the Full Payment Certificates page from the Department of Finance. See the City’s FPC requirements.

• What it is: City certification that water and sewer charges are settled or nontransferable at sale.
• Who files: Your title company or closing attorney usually handles it, though individuals can apply.
• Fee and timing: A processing fee generally applies, and timing can range from days to weeks. Start early.
• Exemptions: Certain transfers may qualify for an exempt FPC. Your title team will confirm the right path.

If you need to follow up directly, use the City’s contact resource. Contact the City about FPCs.

Start water service in Roscoe Village

Roscoe Village homes are served by the City of Chicago Department of Water Management. Use the City’s resources to start, stop, or transfer service and to learn about service-line information. Visit Chicago’s Department of Water Management.

• Billing basics: The owner remains ultimately responsible for water charges, even if a tenant receives the bill. Review the City’s guidance on owner and tenant billing. Read the City’s utility billing FAQs.
• Lead service lines: Chicago maintains a service-line inventory and replacement guidance on the DWM page. Check your address and follow city advice on flushing or filtering if needed.
• Move-in checks: Find the water meter and main shutoff, take an initial meter reading, and check all fixtures for leaks.

Electric and gas setup

ComEd electric

ComEd is the electric distribution utility citywide. You can start, stop, or transfer service online or by phone. If your meter needs access or inspection, schedule it in advance. Start or transfer ComEd service.

Peoples Gas

Peoples Gas provides natural gas service for most Chicago addresses. New accounts may require ID verification and meter access. If you ever smell gas, leave the building and call the utility or 911. Start Peoples Gas service.

Internet and cable

Availability varies by building and exact address. Common providers include Xfinity and AT&T. Schedule installation 2 to 3 weeks ahead if a technician visit is required, and confirm any building access needs with your manager or HOA. Check for Chicago-area network updates.

Trash and recycling basics

For single-family homes and buildings with four or fewer units, the City provides weekly garbage pickup and biweekly blue-cart recycling. Larger buildings often have private haulers. Use 311 for missed pickups or cart requests, and confirm your building’s placement rules. Review Chicago’s garbage and recycling program.

Your move-in timeline

2–4 weeks before

• Confirm your title team has started the FPC application and ask for the expected timeline. Review FPC requirements.
• Schedule ComEd and Peoples Gas start dates, and note any meter access needs.
• Check internet options by address and book installation.

1 week before

• Confirm water account transfer details with the seller, manager, or DWM.
• Collect IDs and any documents you will need to confirm new utility accounts.

Move day

• Record initial readings for water, electric, and gas. Keep your confirmation numbers.
• Locate the main water, gas, and furnace shutoffs, plus the electrical panel and each meter.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries if needed.

First 1–2 weeks after

• Create online accounts for ComEd, Peoples Gas, and Chicago water billing. Set up autopay and alerts.
• Confirm your trash and recycling schedule, placement rules, and cart status via 311 if needed. Check Chicago trash and recycling guidance.
• If you purchased, ask your title attorney to confirm FPC issuance and deed recording status.

Quick on-site checks

• Water: Find the meter and main shutoff, then test hot and cold flow in each room.
• Gas and electric: Locate shutoffs and panels, and confirm appliances power on safely.
• Safety: Replace detector batteries and look for leaks or unusual odors.
• Documentation: Save all service start confirmations and meter photos in one folder.

Moving in should feel seamless. If you want a smooth handoff on utilities and city requirements, you can count on my local process and network. For curated guidance in Roscoe Village and nearby neighborhoods, connect with Lucyna Wrucha-Jenk.

FAQs

Do I need a Full Payment Certificate to buy in Chicago?

• Yes. The City requires a valid FPC or exemption to issue the transfer-tax stamp used to record the deed, and most title teams handle it. See the City’s FPC overview.

How do I start Chicago water service for a Roscoe Village home?

• Use the Department of Water Management’s customer resources to start, stop, or transfer service and review service-line information. Visit DWM’s page.

Can a tenant put the Chicago water bill in their name?

• The owner is ultimately responsible. Owners can direct bills to a tenant, but legal responsibility remains with the owner. Read the City’s billing FAQs.

Who do I contact to start electric and gas service?

• Contact ComEd for electric and Peoples Gas for natural gas. Both offer online start, stop, or transfer options. ComEd service options and Peoples Gas service options.