Utilities

Utilities are the essential services needed to make a rental unit livable and comfortable. All utilities, including who is responsible for paying, will be outlined on your lease.  These typically include:

1. Electricity: Powers lights, appliances, and electronic devices. You’ll likely need to set up an account with a local electric company.
2. Water and Sewer: Provides running water for drinking, cooking, bathing, and flushing toilets. Sometimes included in rent, but not always, and may be required in your monthly rent or billed quarterly.
3. Gas: Used for heating, hot water, and cooking, depending on the apartment’s setup. If the unit has a gas stove or heating system, you’ll need to set up a gas account.
4. Trash and Recycling: Covers garbage collection and recycling services. Typically included in rent but check with your landlord.
5. Internet and Cable: Optional but necessary for streaming, working from home, or general online access. You’ll choose a provider and plan that suits your needs.
6. Heating and Cooling: Depending on the building, heating (gas or electric) and air conditioning costs might be separate or included in the electric bill.
7. Other Fees: Some places may charge for amenities like laundry facilities or parking.

Tips for First-Time Renters:

• Check Lease Details: The lease will specify which utilities you’re responsible for versus what’s included in the rent.
• Set Up Accounts: For utilities not included in your lease, you’ll need to set up accounts. If living with roommates, make sure you delegate who will be the account holder and the responsibility of payment.
  • Will you split evenly? Will one roommate cover a different utility – is it a pretty fair breakdown?
• Budgeting: Estimate utility costs beforehand so you can budget appropriately. Electric and gas bills can fluctuate seasonally.
• Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask the landlord or property manager for average utility costs or any details about setting up services.

Utility companies you will need to consider:

We Energies – Energy/Electric/Heat

When it comes to Utilities, the most common type of bills you will most likely receive are for energy/electric/heat through We Energies. You can transfer, start, or stop your energy service through We Energies.

Pro Tip: We Energies collects records of past bills for every house or apartment in Wisconsin. This can help you get an idea of energy costs in your specific unit. Consider calling We Energies to get an idea of what to expect when you open your first few bills. You can transfer, start, or stop your energy service through We Energies moving section.

Charter Spectrum and AT&T – Internet and Cable

Internet and cable are also services to consider. These can be packaged or separate, depending on your budget and which services you and any roommates decide you want. The two prominent companies in Milwaukee are Charter Spectrum. and AT&T.

If you want to do a search for local TV and Internet providers, you can do so here.

Want to Save Money?

Order a free energy saving kit from Focus on Energy! These kits contain easy-to-install items like LED light bulbs, high-efficiency showerheads, and power strips—all designed to help reduce energy use and lower utility bills. Each household can receive one kit per year. 

Here’s how to sign up for your free kit:

1. Go to Focus on Energy Marketplace 
2. Choose your kit: Focus on Comfort, Focus on Showers, or Focus on Baths.
3. Click “Add to Cart” (limit 1 kit per household).
4. Enter your installation address and shipping info.
5. Enter in your electric utility account number and gas account number
6. Complete the checkout process – and that’s it!