Moving on After Selling

Overview

Handing over the keys marks the end of the transaction—but not the end of your responsibilities. British Columbia utilities, insurers, and Canada Post all place the onus on the outgoing owner to notify them promptly. Missing a step can trigger extra fees or leave you without essential services at your new address. Use the sections below to methodically wrap things up.

Utility Accounts & Essential Services

Electricity (BC Hydro)

Submit a move-out request online or by phone at least 24 hours before possession to avoid paying for the buyer’s consumption. BC Hydro lets you pick the exact shut-off date and final meter read. (BC Hydro – Moving Services).

Natural Gas (FortisBC)

FortisBC also offers start/stop/move options online. Schedule service cancellation for midnight on closing day and record your last meter read for reference. (FortisBC – Open, Close or Move).

Water, Sewer & Waste

Most Metro Vancouver municipalities bill these services directly. Contact city hall or log in to MyProperty to request a final reading and forward any credits. Note that charges may continue until the buyer opens their own account.

Internet, TV & Phone

Providers such as TELUS and Shaw let you transfer contracts to a new address or cancel with 30 days’ notice. Return rental equipment promptly to prevent extra fees.

Mail & Address Updates

Even the most thorough list can miss a statement or renewal notice. Canada Post’s Mail Forwarding service reroutes mail for 4, 12, or 24 months (from $74.25 within B.C.). Set it up online before you move to ensure seamless delivery. (Canada Post – Mail Forwarding).

Financial & Legal Wrap-Up

Insurance: Maintain homeowner’s insurance until the deal is recorded at the Land Title Office, then cancel or transfer coverage to your new property.

Mortgage discharge: Your notary/lawyer will pay out and remove your mortgage from title, but keep the discharge statement and Form B for your records.

Document archive: Save the Contract of Purchase and Sale, statement of adjustments, and all receipts for five years—useful for capital-gains calculations and warranty claims.

Preparing Your New Home

Book utility connections and internet installation before moving day; B.C. providers can be backlogged during peak summer months. If possible, visit the property for pre-move cleaning, safety checks, and to measure doorways for large furniture. Arrange movers or a rental truck early, and confirm strata elevator bookings if you’re moving into a condo.

Key Takeaways

• Give BC Hydro & FortisBC at least 24 hours’ notice to avoid paying for extra consumption.
• Use Canada Post Mail Forwarding as a safety net while you change your address everywhere else.
• Keep insurance active through completion day; cancel only after title transfers.
• Archive all closing documents—especially the statement of adjustments—for tax season.

This guide provides general information only and may not reflect the latest regulations or market conditions. It is not legal or financial advice. Always verify details and consult qualified real-estate, mortgage, and legal professionals before making decisions.