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Moving to Houston? Use this quick checklist to get your essential utilities set up fast and avoid delays, fees, or service interruptions.
Pro Tip: Setting everything up before move-in day helps you avoid delays, service gaps, and unnecessary stress.
Setting up and managing utilities is a key part of everyday life in Houston. Whether you're connecting electricity, water, internet, or need help paying your bills, this guide gives you direct access to trusted providers and support programs.
Need help right now? Use the quick guide below to get connected or find assistance fast.
If you're worried about paying your utility bills, you're not alone.
Unexpected expenses, job changes, or rising costs can make it hard to keep up. The good news is—there are programs in Houston designed specifically to help you stay connected.
If you need immediate help:
If you're trying to avoid disconnection:
Taking action early can help you avoid shutoffs and keep your home running.
Need to set up electricity? → Compare plans at Power to Choose
Power outage or downed lines? → Contact CenterPoint Energy
Water or sewer issues? → Visit Houston Water
Need help paying utility bills? → Start with BakerRipley or Catholic Charities
Whether you're new to Houston or just need better options, these are the most common utility services residents rely on daily.
Houston operates in a deregulated energy market, giving you the ability to choose your electricity provider.
Water services are typically handled by the City of Houston or local municipal utility districts (MUDs).
City services include garbage pickup, recycling programs, and heavy trash collection.
Reliable internet is essential for work, school, and communication, with multiple providers available across Houston.
The official Texas marketplace for comparing electricity plans, rates, and providers in deregulated areas like Houston.
Website: https://www.powertochoose.org/
Houston’s primary electricity delivery company responsible for power lines, outages, and infrastructure—not billing.
Outage Reporting: 713-207-2222
Website: https://www.centerpointenergy.com/
Provides oversight of electric providers and allows consumers to file complaints or get help resolving billing issues.
Website: https://www.puc.texas.gov/
Manages water supply, wastewater services, and billing.
Customer Service: 713-371-1400
Website: https://www.houstonwater.org/
Provides water and sewer services in suburban areas.
Website: https://www.hcmud.org/
Handles garbage collection, recycling, yard waste, and heavy trash pickup.
Website: https://www.houstontx.gov/solidwaste/
Find recycling schedules, guidelines, and drop-off locations.
Website: https://www.houstontx.gov/solidwaste/recycling.html
Provides natural gas service and emergency response for gas leaks.
Gas Emergency: 713-659-2111
Website: https://www.centerpointenergy.com/
High-speed internet, cable TV, and home phone services.
Website: https://www.xfinity.com/
Fiber internet, wireless plans, and bundled services.
Website: https://www.att.com/
5G home internet as an alternative to traditional providers.
Free legal help for utility shutoffs, landlord disputes, and housing issues.
Website: https://www.lonestarlegal.org/
Financial assistance for utilities, rent, and essential needs.
Website: https://www.catholiccharities.org/
Energy assistance programs and financial support for low-income families.
Website: https://www.bakerripley.org/
Helps households pay energy bills and avoid service disconnections.
Use Power to Choose to compare providers and select a plan that fits your needs and budget.
Contact CenterPoint Energy, which manages power delivery and outage response in Houston.
Programs like BakerRipley, Catholic Charities, and LIHEAP offer financial assistance for qualifying households.
Most residents use the City of Houston Water, while some suburban areas are served by MUDs.
Popular options include Xfinity, AT&T Fiber, and T-Mobile Home Internet, depending on your location and needs.
In some cases, protections or assistance programs may help prevent disconnection—contact local assistance organizations as soon as possible.