Setting Up Utilities When You Buy In San Bruno

Buying a home in San Bruno is exciting, but turning on the lights, water, internet, and trash service can feel like a maze. You want everything ready the day you get the keys, without surprise fees or last‑minute calls. This guide walks you through who provides each utility, when to schedule service, and how to avoid common hiccups. Let’s dive in.

Who provides utilities in San Bruno

Electricity and natural gas: PG&E

Pacific Gas & Electric provides both electricity and natural gas in San Bruno. You can start, stop, or transfer service online or by phone, often for the same day. Review the steps and schedule your start date on the PG&E start and transfer page. Start or transfer PG&E service.

Water and sewer: City of San Bruno

The City of San Bruno handles water service and local wastewater collection. New homeowners open or transfer accounts through the City’s Utility Billing team using the Start Utility Service forms. Check required documents and fees on the City’s forms page. Start water and sewer with the City.

Trash, recycling, and organics: Recology San Bruno

Recology San Bruno is the City’s exclusive hauler for curbside garbage, recycling, and organics. Set up service, choose cart sizes, and confirm your pickup day when you move in. The City’s solid waste page links to Recology details. See San Bruno solid waste info. If you want to compare cart options and typical rates by size, review Recology’s guide. Review Recology cart options and rates.

Internet, TV, and phone: address specific

Service varies by street and building. Major providers include AT&T and others, with fiber and cable available in many areas. Always run an address check and book your install early. Check AT&T availability in San Bruno. You can also compare providers and technologies by address. Compare San Bruno internet providers.

When to schedule each service

Ideal timeline

• 2 weeks before closing: Run internet address checks, compare providers, and request quotes. Confirm any PG&E deposit or ID requirements.
• 7 to 10 days before closing: Submit start requests with PG&E and the City. Contact Recology to select cart sizes and confirm your first pickup.
• 3 days before closing: The City asks that you do not submit water start forms too early. If needed, call Utility Billing for expedited service on your exact move‑in date.
• Closing day: Ensure PG&E and water are active when you take possession. Confirm the internet install window and meter access for any utility tech.

What to have ready

• Service address and move‑in date.
• Photo ID and Social Security or tax ID if requested.
• Proof of ownership or lease if required.
• Safe access instructions for electric, gas, and water meters.

Fees, deposits, and discounts to expect

City water and sewer charges

Application charges and deposits can apply when you open a City utility account. Fee amounts are updated at times, so check the City’s forms page for current details and instructions. Confirm City utility fees and forms.

PG&E deposits and assistance

PG&E may charge a security deposit for new accounts, depending on credit. The utility also offers deposit alternatives and payment plans. If you qualify, enroll in CARE, FERA, Medical Baseline, or other programs for monthly bill discounts. Apply early so your first bills reflect any savings. Explore PG&E assistance programs.

Recology rates

Trash, recycling, and organics rates vary by cart size and service level. Rates can change, so review current pricing and choose the right cart mix for your household. See Recology cart options and rates.

Internet costs

Expect installation fees, equipment rentals, and promotional pricing that may change after the promo term. Compare speeds, fees, and contract terms across providers before you commit. Compare San Bruno internet providers.

Closing day coordination checklist

• Keep utilities on through closing. Sellers usually keep services active through the day of closing so buyers can complete the final walk‑through and testing.
• Request final meter readings. Get final PG&E and water readings as of closing and keep receipts for escrow. Some closings require proof of final readings or payment. Why final readings matter.
• Align service start dates. Buyers should set their service start for the possession date stated in the contract.
• Confirm billing cycles. Ask the City how water and sewer are billed and confirm your Recology pickup day. City utility forms and contacts.

Special San Bruno considerations

• Sewer billing method. The City calculates many residential sewer charges using your winter water use average, which can affect bills if you plan heavy irrigation. For system details, visit the City’s wastewater pages. Learn about wastewater operations.
• Shared or single meters. In some multi‑unit or older properties, water or power may be shared. Verify metering with the City and utilities and understand how costs are allocated.
• Organics rules. California requires organics diversion. Follow Recology and City guidance on what goes in each cart to avoid service issues. See San Bruno organics guidance.

Getting utilities set before move‑in removes stress and protects your closing timeline. If you want a smooth handoff, our team can coordinate dates, share local contacts, and keep your escrow on track so you can focus on the move. Reach out to the Wang Tang Group for local guidance and a concierge‑level plan from offer to move‑in.

FAQs

Who handles electricity and gas in San Bruno?

• PG&E provides both; you can start or transfer service online and often schedule same‑day activation. Start or transfer service.

How do I open a City water and sewer account?

• Submit a Start Utility Service form with San Bruno Utility Billing a few days before move‑in, and call if you need expedited service. Open a City account.

Who picks up trash, recycling, and compost?

• Recology San Bruno is the exclusive hauler; set up service, choose cart sizes, and confirm pickup day. Solid waste details.

When should I book internet installation?

• Check address availability 2 weeks before closing and schedule installation for your possession date. Check AT&T availability.

Are there discounts on my PG&E bill?

• Yes. Eligible customers can apply for CARE, FERA, or Medical Baseline, and PG&E offers payment plans and deposit alternatives. See assistance options.