You have a lot going on with the sale of your home. With packing, moving and closing, it is easy to forget the small things like canceling your services. When should you cancel utilities, services and insurance as a Seller?
When Should You Cancel Utilities, Services and Insurance as a Seller?
Utilities
A couple of weeks before closing, call your utility companies to let them know you are moving. If you are moving locally and using the same company, you can transfer your service to the new address. Also, let them know the new buyer will be calling to set up service. Be sure to call your cable and internet company, electric company, water company, gas company and trash company if that is not included in your HOA fee. If closing should be moved up or delayed, you can always give the utility companies a call and change that transfer date.
Landscaper, Pest Control, House Cleaner, Etc.
Let your landscaper know you will not need their services as of the day of closing. Give them your new address if you will be using a landscaper at your new home. The same goes for pest control services. If you have a transferrable termite bond, give them a call and let them know you will be moving. Also, ask what the buyer needs to do to continue the bond. If you have any other reoccurring services, make sure to let them know you are moving and need to cancel or transfer your service.
Homeowners’ and Flood Insurance
Your insurance is a little different than the previously mentioned services and utilities. You own your home until the Deed is recorded. Most of the time, closing paperwork is signed in the morning and the Deed is recorded in the afternoon. This means the new buyer owns the home. However, sometimes there is a delay in recording the Deed the day closing paperwork is signed. My recommendation is not to cancel your homeowners’ insurance or flood insurance, if you have it, until you get notice that the Deed has recorded. A couple of weeks before closing, you can call your insurance agent or insurance company to see what you need to do to cancel your insurance. This way, you will have the necessary paperwork. However, protect yourself and do not cancel your insurances until the Deed is recorded.
I hope these tips for when to cancel your utilities, services and insurance as a Seller were helpful!
As always, contact me if you are interested in buying or selling in Murrells Inlet or the surrounding area or if you are interested in learning more about living at the beach.