How to Set Up Utilities in Kirkland (Water, Sewer, Garbage)
Step‑by‑step: set up water, sewer, garbage, electricity, and internet when you move to Kirkland. We link directly to official providers and explain deposits, billing, and timelines.
Overview
Kirkland utilities are straightforward if you follow the sequence below. Starting water/sewer and solid waste first prevents service gaps and ensures bills route to you from day one.
- Water & sewer: open your City of Kirkland account online or by phone. Have your service address, move‑in date, and ID ready.
- Solid waste (garbage, recycling, compost): carts are assigned by address; verify sizes and collection day and request changes if needed.
- Electricity: Puget Sound Energy (PSE). Create an account, start service, and set up autopay if preferred.
- Internet: availability varies by neighborhood (commonly Comcast/Xfinity or Ziply). Use the provider’s address checker.
Water & Sewer — City of Kirkland
Most single‑family addresses are billed by the City. Renters usually do not need deposits if accounts are in good standing; owners may pay a start‑service fee. New accounts typically appear on the next billing cycle.
Tip: Ask your property manager for the prior account’s closing date. Overlap by one day if possible so your first bill starts on move‑in.
Solid Waste (Garbage/Recycling/Compost)
Service levels (cart sizes) can be changed. Larger garbage carts increase monthly rates; compost is often included. Missed pick‑up? Report within 24 hours.
Electricity — Puget Sound Energy
Start or stop service online. You may be asked for a soft credit check or deposit. Outage maps and text alerts are available after you verify your phone.
Internet — Availability
Use the provider’s address tool to confirm service and speeds. Month‑to‑month options exist; keep the modem’s serial number handy for support.
Billing & Deposits
| Utility | Typical timing | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Water/sewer | Same day–2 business days | Account shows on next bill; owner start‑service fee may apply. |
| Solid waste | 1–2 weeks for cart changes | Collection day depends on route; holiday shifts apply. |
| Electricity (PSE) | Same day–1 business day | Deposit may be requested; autopay/alerts optional. |
| Internet | Same day–1 week | Install window if new drop needed. |
Checklist for Move‑in
- Note your service address and move‑in date.
- Open water/sewer and verify solid‑waste cart sizes and pickup day.
- Open PSE electricity and enroll in outage alerts.
- Choose internet provider and schedule installation if required.
- Save account numbers and enable paperless billing if desired.