How to Set Up Electricity, Water & Gas in Tokyo

🏠 How to Set Up Electricity, Water & Gas in Tokyo

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1. Electricity (電気)

• When to apply: About 1 week before your move-in date; some services even allow same-day activation if arranged early
• Provider in Tokyo: TEPCO (東京電力); phone: 0120‑995‑001. You’ll need your contract number (from your current provider or lease
• Application methods: Online via TEPCO website, mobile, or phone.
• No technician visit: No on-site presence required—just make sure your breaker switch is set to “入” on move-in day
• What you need: name, address, start date, Japanese phone number, contract number

2. Gas (ガス)

• When to apply: Also about 1 week before moving in
• Provider: Tokyo Gas (東京ガス); phone: 0570‑002‑211 (or 03‑3344‑9100 for English service). Other options include newer “shindenryoku” bundled providers
• Appointment required: Technician must visit to safely ignite the system—someone must be home
• Key documents: identification (e.g., residence card), address, phone, desired start date

3. Water (水道)

• Provider: Tokyo Metropolitan Government Waterworks Bureau. Contact: 03‑5326‑1101 (or 03‑5326‑1100 for general queries)
• Application timing: Usually 3–4 days before move-in
• No appointment needed: Rarely a technician visit. If water doesn’t work, locate the meter box outside (near gas meter) and turn the main valve “counter‑clockwise” to open
• Required info: account number (from meter or billing), personal info, address

📝 Step-by-Step Guide

1. Check Lease Info
   Ask your real estate agent or landlord for utility contract references and recommended providers.
2. ‍Prepare Details
   Have on hand: ID, new address, move-in date, Japanese phone number, any prior contract/account numbers.

1. Apply
   • Electricity: via TEPCO online/phone.
   • Gas: call Tokyo Gas to schedule technician visit.
   • Water: contact Tokyo Waterworks online or by phone.
2. Technician Appointment (Gas)
   Be present on the appointed day to allow gas activation and safety checks.
3. Self-checks (Electric & Water)
   On move-in day, switch on your breaker (“入”) and open the main water valve outside if needed.
4. Final Steps
   Ensure meters show zero use, and set up payment methods (convenience store payment slips, bank transfer, or credit card).

🌐 Useful Websites

• TEPCO (電気): 東電 “引越し手続き” page
• Tokyo Gas (ガス): “移転・開栓” page with English support
• Tokyo Waterworks Bureau (水道): FAQs and application details page

✨ Tips & Extras

• Bundle for savings: Some new providers offer electricity + gas packages—cf. Reddit expats saying “bundle is cheaper, and buildings don’t restrict choice”
• Watch timing: Providers are often closed during Dec 29–Jan 3. Plan ahead
• Language help: Many companies offer English lines; otherwise bring a Japanese speaker or use translation apps.
• Payment: Bills come every 1–2 months; payment at convenience stores, post offices, or via bank/credit card.

✅ Final Checklist

• Gather ID, address, date, phone
• Apply for electricity (TEPCO)
• Apply for gas (Tokyo Gas) + schedule technician
• Apply for water (Waterworks)
• Turn on breaker and water valve on move-in day
• Set up bill payments

With these steps, you can smoothly get your electricity, gas, and water running in Tokyo. Starting early makes everything go smoothly—so you can settle in and start enjoying your new home.