Whether you’re an owner or a tenant moving into a new home, you’ll have to set up the SP utilities to get the water, electricity, and gas up and running! Setting up the SP utilities in Singapore isn’t that difficult. But knowing the exact steps to take can help you focus on the more important stuff.
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to get you going!
What to know before setting up your SP utilities account
In Singapore, opening an electricity and water utilities accounts is done via SP Services. Setting up gas utilities (if not using LPG canister gas) via City Energy can be done by calling 1800 555 1661 after you receive confirmation that your SP Services account has been successfully set up.
A utilities account is needed before an appointment to turn on utilities can be arranged.
For residential properties other than HDB BTO flats (i.e HDB resale flats and private homes), the account holder or a representative must be present during the turn-on appointment. This is to provide access for technicians to do a safety inspection prior to activation.
If you’ve just gotten the keys to your BTO flat, you don’t need to schedule turn-on appointments at the place of residence, as electrical and water supplies are already activated and ready to use!
This infographic by SP Group gives a good overview of the process of setting up utilities in Singapore:
Not planning to engage SP Services for your electricity? You’ll still have to open an SP Utilities account first before registering with another retailer.
Now let’s go deeper into the process of setting up your utilities account.
How to open an SP Services utilities account
There are a few ways to set up your SP Services utilities account, namely via:
- The SP app, available on the App Store and Google Play Store
- The SP Utilities Portal (using MyInfo/MyInfo Biz)
- SP Customer Service Centre
Opening an SP Services account via the portal
Here’s how the SP Utilities Portal looks like:
Choose whether you’re registering as an individual or on behalf of a company.
Note that you’ll need to be at least 18 years old to open an account.
You’re also required to provide a copy of your NRIC or FIN. Alternatively, you can login with Myinfo with your Singpass to minimise this step.
Other documents you may need to attach are:
- Property tax
- Proof of ownership
Step 1: Provide details of the house
You’ll be asked to fill up the address of your new home. Do give a mailing address if it’s a different one.
If City Energy is not available at your development, the system will inform you on this.
Note that electricity and water are selected by default. If you plan to engage another retailer for your electricity, you’ll still have to open an account with SP Services first.
Step 2: Provide personal information, such as your NRIC
You’ll then be prompted to log in with your Singpass, so that you won’t have to upload a copy of your NRIC or FIN.
Alternatively, you may choose to fill up the form. With this option, you’ll have to upload a front and back copy of your NRIC or FIN.
How much is the security deposit for SP utilities?
The chart shows the deposit amount you’re required to pay. How much you’ll pay depends on your property type.
The security deposit will be billed in your first bill.
Upon the termination of your lease or sale of your house, the security deposit can be used to pay for the final utility bills.
Any remaining amount may be transferred to other accounts under your name to pay for outstanding charges. If there’s any balance left, it will be refunded to your GIRO account or mailed to you by cheque within a month.
How do I pay my SP utility bill?
There are a few ways to pay your SP utilities bill.
- SP app. Use the app to pay your bill with PayNow or Visa/MasterCard/American Express card. For instance, the POSB Everyday Card lets you set up automatic recurring monthly payment, and gives up to 3% rebate for every bill payment.
- GIRO. Print and send the GIRO form by mail.
- Other electronic means, such as ATMs, AXS stations and internet banking. Payment via internet banking and ATM is only available for DBS, UOB and OCBC.
- SP Services centre at Toa Payoh HDB Hub. You can pay your bill here with cash, NETS, Cashcard, cheque, cashier’s order and credit card (Visa or MasterCard).
- 7-Eleven outlets. Cash, Cashcard and NETS are accepted here.
Note that from 1 April 2023 onwards, you can no longer pay your SP Services bill via Singpost and SAM kiosks.
How far in advance do I need to set up my SP utilities?
It takes approximately two weeks for your utilities to be switched on.
If you’re setting up utilities via the SP app, expect a seven-business-day lead time before your utilities supply is switched on.
You’ll get an SMS confirmation for the application within the next working day, and an email at least two working days before the appointment.
You can also reschedule your supply (electricity and water) turn-on appointment online, subject to availability of time slots.
What happens if I switch from SP utilities to another electricity retailer?
If you’re planning to switch to another electricity retailer, don’t close your SP Services account. Non-electricity charges like water, gas, and refuse collection will still be billed to your SP account.
And should your retailer bill you via SP Group, you’ll still receive one bill for both electricity and non-electricity charges.
Otherwise, you’ll receive two bills. And you’ll need to set up the payment arrangements with your electricity retailer.
Contact your preferred electricity retailer to make the switch. They’ll then liaise with SP Services to transfer your electricity account. Do note that for verification purposes, SP Services will only require the following info for the process:
- SP Utilities account number
- Account holder’s name
- Postal code for verification
Note that if your electricity retailer shuts down (touch wood), your account will automatically be transferred back to SP Services. Your electricity won’t be disrupted because of this.
Can I transfer my SP Services utilities account?
Moving to a new home? The thing is, each SP account is tagged to each property, so you won’t be able to transfer it to your new home. Instead, you’ll have to close the current account and open a new one for your new home.
Likewise, if you’re renting out your home, you won’t be able to transfer your account to your tenant. You’ll have to close it and your tenant will have to open a new one under their name.
You can terminate your account by one of the following methods:
- SP app
- Submit an online termination form
- Visit the Customer Service Centre
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Conclusion
In conclusion, this article provides a comprehensive guide on setting up SP utilities in Singapore, covering the necessary steps, account opening methods, security deposit requirements, and payment options for utility bills. It also clarifies important details such as the inability to transfer accounts to new properties or tenants.
While the process is outlined, it is hoped that SP Services continues to improve its services to enhance customer experience. By streamlining procedures and offering more convenient options, such as digital payment methods and quicker turnaround times for utility activation, SP Services can further simplify and enhance the utility setup process for residents and businesses in Singapore.
How’s your experience like setting up your utilities? Share them with us in the comments below.
If you found this article helpful, 99.co recommends Guide to Inspecting Your New HDB Flat and HDB Renovation Permits 101.
Frequently asked questions
You can open an account online through the SP app or SP Utilities Portal. Alternatively, you can do so in-person by visiting SP’s Customer Service Centre.
You won’t be able to transfer the account to your tenant as it’s non-transferable. Instead, you’ll need to close your account and have your tenant open a new account.
You can close the account online via the SP app or by submitting a termination form. Otherwise, you can do so in-person at the SP Customer Service Centre.
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