Utility Contract Transfer

What Is It?

This is the process of transferring utility supply contracts — electricity, water, gas, and telecommunications — from the previous owner to your name.

Ideally, this should be completed immediately after the final deed (Escritura) to avoid service interruptions or incorrect billing.

What Is It For / Why Is It Important?

Payment Responsibility
Ensures you are only billed for consumption from the moment you take possession of the property.

Avoid Service Disruption
If the previous owner cancels contracts before you transfer them, utilities may be disconnected, potentially leading to reconnection fees and delays.

Legal and Billing Accuracy
For invoicing purposes — and eligibility for benefits such as the Social Tariff (Tarifa Social) — the contract holder should be the actual resident.

How Is It Done?

Meter Readings
On the day you receive the keys, take photos of all meters (water, electricity, and gas) to record exact consumption values.

Contact Utility Providers
Transfers can usually be completed online, by phone, or in person with suppliers such as electricity, gas, water, or telecom operators.

Required Documents

• Identification document (Cartão de Cidadão or NIF — Número de Identificação Fiscal)

• Proof of ownership or address (copy of the Escritura or Caderneta Predial)

• IBAN (if setting up direct debit)

• CPE code (Código de Ponto de Entrega — electricity supply identifier)

• CUI code (Código Universal de Instalação — gas supply identifier)
  (Both codes can be found on a previous utility bill for the property.)

What Does It Cost?

Electricity and Gas
Usually free, as this is considered a contractual transfer.

Water
Some municipalities may charge a new contract or deposit fee, typically between €10 and €50.

Telecommunications
New installations or address transfers may involve setup costs or a new minimum contract period (often 24 months).

Practical Tip: Transfer — Don’t Cancel

Ask the seller not to cancel electricity and water contracts before ownership transfer.

If services are cancelled, utility companies may remove or deactivate meters, requiring new inspections and installations — a slower and significantly more expensive process.