Moving within Barrie? Selling or Buying? Utility Account Info
BARRIE, ONTARIO – Setting Up or Closing Utilities
Whether you are moving within Barrie, purchasing a new home, selling a property, or managing a rental, utility accounts are an essential part of the transition process. For buyers and sellers alike, overlooking utility setup or cancellation can lead to billing disputes, service interruptions, or delays around closing and possession dates.
When buying a home in Barrie, it is important to ensure all utility accounts are transferred into your name effective the day you take possession. Sellers, on the other hand, should confirm accounts are closed or final meter readings are completed to avoid being billed after ownership has changed. These steps are especially important in private sales, investment properties, or homes with tenants.
In Barrie, water, wastewater, and stormwater services are managed directly by the City. Homeowners are responsible for ensuring these accounts are properly opened or closed as part of the buying or selling process. Failure to do so can result in unexpected charges that may follow the property rather than the individual.
For City-managed utilities, visit:
Water, Wastewater & Stormwater | City of Barrie
If outstanding balances exist or financial flexibility is required, the City of Barrie also offers payment plan applications for eligible homeowners. This can be particularly relevant for sellers preparing a home for sale or buyers inheriting existing balances tied to the property.
Water/Wastewater Payment Plan Applications | City of Barrie
Electricity service in Barrie is provided by Alectra Utilities. Buyers and sellers should ensure residential hydro accounts are opened or closed based on the exact possession date to avoid billing overlap. This is especially important in situations involving delayed closings, rental properties, or interim occupancy.
HYDRO: Opening and/or Closing a Residential Account – Alectra
Natural gas services, commonly used for furnaces, stoves, fireplaces, and some hot water systems, are typically supplied by Enbridge Gas. Buyers should confirm whether appliances are gas-powered and ensure accounts are activated in advance of possession. Sellers should verify service termination dates, particularly if the home will sit vacant after closing.
Taking care of utility changes early helps ensure a smooth transition, reduces stress on moving day, and prevents unnecessary follow-up after a transaction closes. This applies to homeowners, landlords, tenants, and investors managing one or multiple properties within Barrie.
If you are buying, selling, or investing in Barrie and want guidance that extends beyond the transaction itself, connect with a member of the
MovingSimcoe.com Team.
For confidential inquiries or direct assistance, you can also reach us
here.
