Beyond the Move: Your Essential Guide to Setting Up Home in a New Ontario City

Congratulations! The boxes are unpacked, and the movers have left. You’ve successfully navigated the physical part of your relocation with Safe Move. Now comes the next exciting chapter: turning your new house into a home and integrating into your new community.

Whether you’ve moved across the GTA from Mississauga to Markham or made a longer journey from Toronto to Kitchener, settling into a new city involves more than just arranging furniture. This guide will walk you through the essential services to set up and help you start exploring your new neighbourhood like a local.

Step 1: The Essentials – Utilities and Services

Getting your lights, heat, and water running is the top priority. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Electricity: The main provider in Ontario is Hydro One, but many cities have their own local utilities.

  • Toronto: Toronto Hydro

  • Mississauga, Brampton, Vaughan: Alectra Utilities

  • Ottawa: Hydro Ottawa

  • Hamilton: Alectra Utilities (formerly Horizon Utilities)

  • Contact them as soon as possible to start service in your name on your move-in date.

• Gas: If your new home uses natural gas for heating or cooking, you’ll likely need to set up an account with Enbridge Gas.

• Water: Water and wastewater services are almost always managed by your local municipal government. Check your city’s website for information.

• Internet & TV: Research providers in your new area (e.g., Rogers, Bell, TekSavvy) and book an installation appointment well in advance, as wait times can vary.

Step 2: Government and Administrative Tasks

• Update Your Address: This is crucial! Visit a ServiceOntario centre to update the address on your driver’s licence, health card, and vehicle registration. You should also update your address with:

  • Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)

  • Your bank and other financial institutions

  • Any subscription services

• Find Healthcare: Register with the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) if you’re new to the province. Finding a new family doctor can take time. You can search for doctors accepting new patients through Health Care Connect or by contacting local clinics in your new city, whether you’re in Burlington, Oakville, or Barrie.

Step 3: Connect and Explore Your New Community

Now for the fun part! Here’s how to start feeling at home:

• Get a Library Card: Public libraries are fantastic community hubs offering more than just books—they have free programs, workshops, and digital resources. Perfect for families new to Richmond Hill or Vaughan.

• Find Local Gems: Every city has its unique charm.

  • If you’ve moved to Hamilton, explore the waterfalls and art scene.

  • In Niagara Falls, you’re never far from world-famous attractions and beautiful vineyards.

  • New to Ajax or Pickering? Enjoy the beautiful waterfront trails on Lake Ontario.

• Register for Activities: Check out your city’s community centre or parks and recreation department. They offer sports leagues, fitness classes, and programs for all ages—a great way to meet people.

Welcome Home, from Safe Move

We at Safe Move are more than just movers; we’re your partners in starting fresh. We’re proud to help families and individuals relocate smoothly to cities across Ontario, from Scarborough to St. Catharines.

Remember, settling in takes time. Be patient with yourself and take the opportunity to explore everything your new city has to offer.

And when you’re ready for your next move—whether it’s across town in Etobicoke or across the province—you know who to call.

Welcome to your new home!