Are you moving soon? Then you also need to arrange your water when moving. This may sound like a small detail, but believe us – you don’t want to arrive at your new home without running water from the tap. At Moving, we help you with moving every day. We see it time and time again: people forget to arrange their water connection and are then left empty-handed. That’s why we wrote this complete guide in which you will learn everything about arranging water when moving. What should you actually pay attention to?

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Reporting your move doesn't have to be difficult

Whether you are moving to a rental property, a home you own or even a brand new home – this guide will take you step by step to a perfect water connection. We will discuss everything from finding the right water company to recording meter readings and correctly reporting your move. Have you submitted all the information? Then you can now apply for water.

Moving: arranging your water connection – what does it entail?

Arranging water when moving – the basics

Think of water arranging relocation as passing a baton. You pass the baton from your old to your new home. Two main roles play a role here: canceling at your old address and registering at your new address.

When you cancel, you end your contract with your current water company. At the same time, you enter into a new contract with the water company that is active where you are going to live. Sounds simple? It is - provided you follow the right steps. It is best to register before you move, because then this is also arranged.

What should you consider:

Cancel your old water connection
Register water at your new address
Keep accurate meter readings
Perfectly align timing
Complete all paperwork correctly

Understanding the difference between canceling and signing up is crucial. Imagine canceling without signing up – you’re out of pocket. Or signing up without canceling – you’re paying double. Neither scenario is easy on your wallet. Traceable expenses can be changed later.

Why arranging water supply is essential

Arrange your water connection in time. Otherwise you will run into practical and legal problems. As a new resident you are legally obliged to register with the local water company. You must do this within a few days after the key transfer. In the Netherlands, 10 companies are the best. You have a lot to arrange, so start on time.

You want to avoid these problems:

Problem	Consequence	Solution
Late registration	Fines and additional costs	Register within 10 working days
Double billing	Pay for two addresses	Perfectly align timing
No water supply	Drinking water cut off	Start emergency procedure
Administrative chaos	Incorrect invoices	Maintain proper documentation

The Consumers' Association recommends starting 4 weeks before your move. This gives you enough buffer for any complications. This ensures that you have water on the day you receive the key.

Arranging water when moving, step 1: check which water company is active

Step 1 starts with detective work. You need to find out which water company is responsible for where you are going to live. The Netherlands has seven regional water companies and each company has its own territory.

Dutch water companies by region:

Water company	Area	Telephone	Website
Vitens	Northern and Eastern Netherlands	088 884 8367	vitens.nl
PWN	North Holland	088 889 8899	pwn.nl
Waternet	Amsterdam and surroundings	020 511 0011	waternet.nl
Dunea	South Holland	088 347 8888	dunea.nl
Evides	South Holland, Zeeland, Brabant	010 282 9911	evides.nl
Brabant Water	North Brabant	073 683 8383	brabantwater.nl
WML	Limburg	043 302 2000	wml.nl

How to find your water company:

The quickest way is to use a postcode checker. Go to the website of any water company and enter your new postcode. You will find an overview of all the details you need.

Other options:

Call your real estate agent or landlord
Check the website of your new municipality
Ask the current resident
Use a comparison site

Pro tip: Always keep your customer number from your previous water company. This speeds up the cancellation process enormously.

Arranging water when moving, step 2: complete the takeover document for your new home

Now it gets serious. Step 2 means that you register yourself as a new customer with the water company of your new place of residence. You do this via the takeover document - also called the registration form.

There are several ways to report a move. Most people choose to register online because it is the quickest and easiest.

Online registration step-by-step plan:

Surf to the water company's website
Find the link to the moving page
Please fill out the form completely
Upload a photo of your ID
Receive confirmation by email within 2-3 business days

You will need these documents:

Valid ID
Extract from the BRP
Rental or purchase agreement for new home
BSN number
Bank account number
Contact email address

Important information to fill in:

Your full name and contact details
Address of new home including correct postal code
Date of key transfer
Desired start date of water supply
Meter reading upon moving in (if you have one)

Real life story:

The Van der Berg family moved from Amsterdam to Utrecht. They thought that Waternet was also active in Utrecht. Fortunately, Mrs. Van der Berg checked this in time. She discovered that Vitens is the water company in their new place of residence. By starting step 2 early, they had running water from day one.

Arranging water when moving, step 3: complete the transfer document at your old address

Step 3 is about properly closing your old address. You cancel your water connection with your current water company and ensure that all administration is correct.

To cancel your water subscription, follow these steps:

Determine the right timing (last day in your old house)
Contact your current water company
Always ask for written confirmation
Record meter readings for correct final settlement
Coordinate cancellation with your moving date

Recording meter readings is super important. Your water meter is usually found in the meter cupboard, basement or outside by the front door. Read it on your last day and take a photo as proof.

Different water meters read:

Analog meter: Only record the black numbers (whole cubic meters)
Digital meter: Read the entire display in m³
Photo proof: Always take a photo with date and time
Online reporting: Many water companies have apps for this

Notice period details:

Default: 30 days before the end of the month
When moving: Often possible every day
Confirmation: Always ask for written proof
Final settlement: You will receive it within 6 weeks

Step 4: Check the contract confirmation

You have now reached step 4. After you have completed steps 2 and 3, you will receive a contract confirmation from your new water company. Always check this confirmation thoroughly.

Check this personal information:

Correct name and initials
Correct address of new home
Correct email address and telephone number
BSN number correct
Bank account number for direct debit

Contract details that must be correct:

Start date of water supply matches moving date
Rates and costs are clear
Advance amount per month
Date of annual statement
General terms and conditions attached

Check technical information:

Meter readings (initial reading if you provided one)
Water meter type and connection number
Water pressure and other details
Any special circumstances

If there are errors:

Call our customer service immediately
Request changes to be confirmed in writing
Request new contract confirmation
We are available during office hours

Expert tip from water installer Jan Bakker: “Always check that you are connected to the water supply of the correct water company. In border municipalities, it can happen that houses in the same street are served by different water companies.”

Step 5: Pay your final bill from the old address

The finish line is in sight! Step 5 deals with your final bill for your old address. You will usually receive this final bill within 6 weeks of your move.

This is what is on your final statement:

Element	Explanation	Example amount
Fixed fee	Fixed costs until moving date	€45,20
Consumption costs	Actual water consumption in m³	€78,45
Advance payment refund	Overpaid advances	-€25,30
Administrative costs	Costs for final settlement	€12,50
Final Total	To pay or to receive	€110,85

Important checks:

Meter reading matches your note
Period calculation until exact moving date
Advances correctly settled
No double costs for new address

Most water companies give you 30 days to pay. You can pay by direct debit, online payment, bank transfer or by post (if you object to digital).

In case of problems with the final settlement:

Please contact customer service
Provide proof of your meter reading registration
Request an explanation of the calculation
If problems persist: contact the disputes committee
Check out our dispute resolution tips

Water supply companies in the Netherlands by province

The Netherlands has seven major water companies. Each company has its own service area. Which water company is responsible for your new home depends on the location.

Vitens – the largest player

Vitens is the largest water company in the Netherlands. They serve Friesland, Groningen, Drenthe, Overijssel, Flevoland, Gelderland and parts of Utrecht. With 5.8 million customers, they are a real powerhouse. Vitens also supplies green energy via a subsidiary. Their rates for 2025: fixed charge €107.52 per year and €1.23 per m³ consumption. You can reach them via vitens.nl or 088-884 8367.

PWN – North Holland specialist

PWN serves North Holland (except Amsterdam). They are specialists in extracting dune water and surface water. Since 2020 they have been working 100% CO₂ neutral. Their rates 2025: €98.40 fixed fee per year and €1.18 per m³. Contact via pwn.nl.

Waternet – Amsterdam and surroundings

Waternet provides for Amsterdam, Diemen, Muiden, Weesp and Ouder-Amstel. What is special about Waternet is that they also arrange sewerage and waste water. They are innovative with smart water meters and handy apps. Rates 2025: €89.76 fixed fee per year and €1.15 per m³.

Dunea – South Holland quality

Dunea serves The Hague, Leiden, Alphen aan den Rijn and surroundings. They deliver premium quality dune water and have a 24/7 breakdown service. Rates 2025: €91.20 fixed charge per year and €1.21 per m³.

Evides – southwest Netherlands

Evides provides Rotterdam, Dordrecht, Zeeland and West-Brabant. They also supply large industrial customers and work with water storage Netherlands techniques. Rates 2025: €95.64 fixed fee per year and €1.19 per m³.

Brabant Water – entire province

Brabant Water serves the entire province of Noord-Brabant. They focus on circular economy and have local customer service per region. Rates 2025: €88.44 fixed fee per year and €1.16 per m³.

WML – Limburg

WML provides for the province of Limburg. They work together across borders and use groundwater from Limburg sources. Rates 2025: €92.88 fixed fee per year and €1.22 per m³.

How do you determine which water company is responsible?

The quickest way to determine which water company is active in your new place of residence is to use a postcode checker.

Postcode checker methods:

Water company website: Every water company has a postcode checker
Comparison sites: Independent sites like gaslicht.com
Municipal information: Official municipal websites
Energy supplier: Some also have water information

Step-by-step plan for postcode check:

Surf to a water company website
Search for “postcode checker” or “service area”
Enter your new zip code
Find an overview of the responsible water company
Note contact details and rate information

Other ways:

Contact real estate agent or landlord
Calling the municipality of your new place of residence
Request information from current residents
Check out our address change service for complete support

Differences between water companies

Although all Dutch water companies deliver comparable quality, rates vary considerably per region.

Tariff comparison 2025:

Water company	Fixed fee/year	Price per m³	Average family/year
Waternet	€89,76	€1,15	€231,36
Brabant Water	€88,44	€1,16	€230,24
PWN	€98,40	€1,18	€242,64
Dunea	€91,20	€1,21	€236,04
WML	€92,88	€1,22	€239,28
Evides	€95,64	€1,19	€238,44
Vitens	€107,52	€1,23	€254,52

Calculation: average consumption of 120 m³ per year for a household

Service differences:

Online services: All water companies offer web portals and apps
Customer Service: Accessibility varies from 24/7 to office hours
Sustainability: Different focus on green energy and circular economy
Innovation: Smart meters, leak detection and water saving programs

Importance of correct meter reading registration

Recording meter readings is crucial when arranging water for relocation. Correct meter reading registration prevents financial problems and ensures accurate billing between you and the previous occupant.

Financial protection:

You don't pay for water you haven't used
Correct calculation of your consumption
No double billing between old and new residents
Correct basis for your energy bill and water bill

Legal safety:

Proof of actual water consumption
Protection in case of disputes with water company
Documentation for final settlement of old home
Starting point for new housing contract

Practical advantage:

Insight into your consumption pattern
Possibility to save water
Check for leaks or unusual consumption
Monthly consumption check

You will usually find your water meter in one of these places:

Meter cupboard: Most common in new homes
Basement: Often in older homes or terraced houses
Outside: At the front door, in the garden or at the sidewalk
Utility room: In shed or outbuilding
Technical room: In apartments or flats

Types of water meters:

Analogue water meter

Looks like a big clock with spinning hands. Red numbers indicate liters (after the decimal point). Black numbers show cubic meters (before the decimal point). Actually, you should only pay attention to the black numbers.

Digital water meter

Has an LCD or LED display. Shows the position in m³ (cubic meters) directly. Often with date/time function. Some have a scan function for automatic reading.

Smart water meter

Reads automatically from a distance. Data is temporarily forwarded to the water company. Provides real-time consumption information. Has app connectivity for monitoring.

Reading step by step:

Find your water meter using the above locations
Check if it is the water meter (not gas or electricity)
Read numbers:
- Analog: Note black numbers (whole cubic meters)
- Digital: Read full display
Take photo with date/time visible
Write down the date, time and meter reading
Please read again to be sure

Expert tip from Maria Jansen, Consumer Expert: “Always take a photo of the meter reading with your phone. The metadata of the photo automatically shows the date and time – this is legal evidence in case of any disputes.”

When should I submit my meter reading?

Timing of meter reading registration:

When moving from old home: Read off on your last day in your old home. Preferably do this as late in the day as possible. Coordinate with the key transfer timing.

When moving to a new home: Read off on the day you receive the keys to your new home. Do this as early as possible on the first day, before your first water consumption. Your new home will then have a correct starting meter reading.

Regular reading:

Annually for final settlement
Monthly for own consumption control
During maintenance when work is being carried out
In case of problems, if you suspect leakage or unusual consumption

Ways to pass on:

Method	Advantages	Cons	Suitable for
Online portal	24/7 available, confirmation	Internet required	Most people
By telephone	Direct contact, questions possible	Waiting times	Elderly, complex situations
SMS	Fast and easy	No confirmation	Simple meter reading
App	Photo upload possible	App download required	Tech-savvy users
By mail	Physical evidence	Slow, loss possible	Temporary internet space shortage

Important deadlines:

10 working days after moving for new registration
30 days before cancellation of old address
Within 1 week after receipt of reading request
For invoice period ends for periodic readings

Reporting a move – procedures and timing

The timing of the relocation notification is like a choreography – everything has to happen at the right time. Registering too early costs unnecessary money. Too late can cause problems with water supply.

6 weeks before moving

Gather information about the new water company. Check out our rate comparison tool. Create an account on the new water company's website. Gather all necessary documents.

4 weeks before moving

Register your new home with the water company. Report your move to your current water supplier. Check and save all confirmations. Also inform your energy supplier (for combi deals).

2 weeks before moving

Check all contract confirmations. Contact our customer service for questions. Prepare meter reading old home. Make a step-by-step plan for moving day.

1 week before moving

Confirm final details. Keep water company contact details at hand. Check you are staying in the same region (same water company). Note emergency contacts.

Moving day

Note meter readings old and new home. Take photos of both meter readings. Report any problems immediately. Plan follow-up for the days after the move.

Emergency situations:

Sometimes you have to move suddenly. Then you only have to provide the minimum information. Call customer service immediately for urgent treatment. Then contact us within 24 hours after moving. You can add documentation later.

How to correctly report a move?

Most water companies offer comprehensive online move notification services.

Online registration step-by-step plan:

Go to the website of the water company of your new region
Find “Moving” or “New Customer” section
Click on the link to the moving page
Fill in the detailed form
Upload photo of your ID
Receive confirmation by email within 2-3 business days

Checklist of required information:

✅ Full name and initials
✅ BSN number
✅ Email address for communication
✅ Phone number (mobile and landline)
✅ Address of new home including zip code
✅ Date key gets new home
✅ IBAN for direct debit
✅ Copy of ID (scan or photo)

Telephone registration

For people who are less digitally skilled or have complex situations, you can call during office hours (usually 08:00-17:00). Have all necessary information at hand. Ask for written confirmation by post. Check if we are available - see the current opening hours.

Digital moving service

Some water companies offer integrated services. You can arrange your energy contract and water in one go. They provide automatic address changes with various agencies. You can register all utilities at once via this page. Complete moving service including electricity and gas.

What happens after you report a move?

After you have reported your move, you will receive confirmation within 2-3 working days.

Contents of confirmation email:

Customer number for future communication
Start date of water supply
Rates and monthly advance payment
Terms and Conditions
Contact details for questions

Technical connection:

In most cases, only the administrative transition needs to be arranged. Water is already connected to the water mains. Technical adjustments are usually not necessary. Your new home will have water supply immediately. Emergency service is available in case of problems.

Follow-up steps:

Check if water is working on moving day
Record meter reading of new home immediately
Please contact us if you have any problems
Check first invoice after 1-2 months
View our tips for optimal water consumption

Legal obligations for water connection

Arranging a water connection when moving is not optional. Dutch laws and regulations oblige you to register with the local water company. This obligation arises from the Drinking Water Act.

What does the law say:

You must register within 10 working days after moving
As a new resident you are directly responsible for water supply
Water companies have a monopoly in their service area
Supervision is carried out by the Netherlands Authority for Consumers and Markets (ACM)

Your rights and obligations:

Right to reliable drinking water supply 24/7
Obligation to report registrations and cancellations in a timely manner
Right to correct invoicing based on actual consumption
Obligation to report meter readings correctly

Consequences of non-compliance: You will face practical and financial problems if you do not comply with the rules. Water companies can impose fines for late registration. You also risk disconnection of water supply for repeated violations. This can be difficult in the event of a temporary lack of space.

Legal aspects of water contract

Your water contract is subject to the general terms and conditions of the water company. These terms and conditions have been approved by the ACM and contain important rights and obligations.

Contract terms:

Automatic renewal every year
Notice period usually 30 days
Price changes will be announced in a timely manner
Dispute resolution via independent committee

Consumer rights water supply

As a consumer, you have strong protection. The water company must deliver consistent quality. In case of problems, you can use the dispute committee free of charge. You are entitled to compensation in case of long-term disruptions.

Liability issues

The water company is liable for damage caused by them. Think of water damage caused by defective pipes or polluted drinking water. You are responsible for your own installation from the water meter.

Legislation and regulations per situation

Rental properties versus owner-occupied properties: In rental properties, the rules are different than in owner-occupied properties. As a tenant, you are usually responsible for reporting water yourself. But always check your lease agreement – sometimes the landlord will arrange this.

With owner-occupied homes, you are always responsible yourself as the owner. You must transfer the water connection when selling. The notary often ensures correct transfer between buyer and seller.

Tenants' rights:

Right to a working water installation
Landlord must resolve technical issues
Water may be included in all-in rental
Contact landlord for major repairs

New construction regulations

Special rules apply to new construction. The project developer must ensure a working water connection upon delivery. You as a buyer are responsible for registration from the delivery date.

Temporary residence

More flexible rules apply to temporary residence. You can often conclude shorter contracts. Water companies have special procedures for temporary situations such as subletting or hospita homes.

Overview of water connection costs

Water arranging relocation involves various costs. Most costs are transparent and predictable. However, there may be surprises in administration costs and deposit requirements.

Connection costs for new home

Most water companies do not charge connection fees for existing homes. The water is already connected to the water mains. You only pay administration fees for registering as a new customer.

Cost overview:

Cost item	Amount	When
Administration registration	€15-25	When registering a new home
Administration cancellation	€10-20	In case of cancellation of old address
Deposit	€50-150	Sometimes with new customers
Overlap period	Variable	In case of wrong timing
Emergency connection	€75-125	At last minute arrangement

Deposit and advances

Some water companies ask for a deposit from new customers. This is especially the case if you have no credit history. The deposit is returned after a year of loyal payment.

In addition, you pay a monthly advance for your expected consumption. They settle this advance against your actual consumption at the annual settlement. Finding another water company can be difficult. Look carefully at what options you have.

Understanding Monthly Water Costs

Dutch water bills consist of two parts: fixed charges and consumption costs. You always pay the fixed charge, regardless of how much water you use. The consumption costs depend on your actual consumption in m3 per home.

Fixed charges versus consumption costs:

Fixed fee: Fixed costs for availability (€85-110 per year)
Consumption costs: €1.15-1.25 per cubic meter of water
Average Dutch households: 120 m³ per year
Total annual costs: €230-255 for average family

Tariff structure of water companies

Each water company has its own rates. These rates are fixed for at least a year. They announce price changes in good time. You cannot negotiate rates – water companies have a monopoly in their area.

Read invoice

Your water bill shows your consumption over a certain period. Usually you get a bill four times a year. At the end of the year a final statement follows in which advances are settled against actual consumption.

Save money on water arrangements when moving

Optimize timing: The best way to save money is perfect timing. Make sure your cancellation and registration take effect on the same day. This prevents overlapping periods in which you pay for two addresses. Don't forget to write a comma when scanning. Otherwise the grid operator can't see this.

Minimize overlap period:

Match cancellation and registration dates precisely
Please check both contract confirmations
In case of problems, please contact us immediately
Document everything for possible recovery

Avoid administrative costs:

Register on time (no rush costs)
Provide correct meter readings
Use online services (often cheaper)
Request a waiver of administrative costs in case of problems

Save smart water

Start saving water in your new home right away. Check for leaks, install water-saving shower heads and monitor your usage. An average household can save 20-30% without sacrificing comfort.

Arranging water when moving to a rental property

Moving into a rental property comes with its own set of challenges. You need to figure out who is responsible for what – you as a tenant or the landlord.

Responsibilities of tenant versus landlord: In most cases, you as a tenant are responsible for registering water yourself. The landlord provides a working water connection, but you arrange the contract with the water company.

Check your rental agreement:

Does your contract say anything about water connection?
Is water included in the rental price (all-in)?
Who pays for water system repairs?
Can you choose your own water company? (No, because it is a monopoly)

Consult landlord procedures

Talk to your landlord about the procedures. Some landlords have experience with address changes and can help you. Other landlords leave everything up to you.

All-in rental including water

With all-in rent, water is sometimes included in the rent. Then you do not have to sign a contract yourself. The landlord has a contract and charges water through the rent. Always check this when signing the rental contract.

Arranging water when moving to a private home

In the case of a purchased home, you as the owner are fully responsible for arranging water during the move. The notary plays an important role in the transfer of the water connection.

Owner responsibilities:

Register your water supply yourself with the water company
Maintenance and repairs of water installations
Submitting meter readings when buying and selling
All communication with water company

Transfer upon sale of home

When you sell your house you have to transfer the water connection correctly. The notary usually takes care of the administrative side. You are responsible for termination per sale date.

Technical inspection of water installation

When buying a house, a technical inspection is wise. The inspection shows whether the water installation is in order. Problems can be used for price negotiations.

Notary and water connection

The notary informs all utilities about the transfer of ownership. This also applies to the water company. However, you remain responsible for correct termination and registration.

Moving to a new-build home

New house in the new construction? Then special rules apply for water regulation relocation. The project developer must ensure a working water connection upon delivery.

First water connection new construction:

Project developer arranges technical connection
You are responsible for the contract with the water company
Registration can often be done before delivery
Water meter is already in place upon delivery

Project developer coordination

Keep in touch with the developer about timing. They can tell you when the water connection is ready. Some developers help with application procedures.

Special procedures timing

In new construction, you can often register your water weeks before delivery. Make sure that the registration starts on the delivery date. That way, you have water as soon as you get the key.

Delivery and water activation

Check upon delivery whether the water is working. Test all taps and check the water pressure. Report any problems directly to the project developer and the water company.

Water not working after moving

You are standing in your new home and there is no water coming out of the tap. Don't panic! This problem occurs more often than you think. We will explain what you can do.

Carry out initial checks yourself:

Is the main tap open? (Usually at the water meter)
Are all the taps in your house not working, or only some of them?
Is there any maintenance going on in the street?
Do neighbors have the same problem?

Contact water company

If the above checks do not solve the problem, call the water company. Have your customer number at hand. Explain that you have just moved and have no water.

Emergency repair procedures

Water companies have 24/7 emergency services. Water is a basic necessity so they treat problems as a priority. Action must be taken within 4 hours.

Temporary water supply

In case of long-term problems, the water company must provide temporary supplies. This can be done by tankers or jerry cans. You are entitled to at least 3 litres per person per day for drinking water.

Common problems

Sometimes something goes wrong with your registration.

Common mistakes:

Incorrect start date entered
Postcode incorrectly typed
BSN number not correct
Bank account number is incorrect

Meter reading errors also occur regularly:

Incorrect reading (analog meter)
Photo blurry or unclear
Confusion with gas or electricity meter
Late submission of meter reading

Sometimes connection takes longer than expected:

Administrative delay at water company
Technical problems in the street
Maintenance work planned
Communication error between departments

Beware of duplicate invoices:

Check that the cancellation has been processed correctly
Check new contract start date
Keep all confirmation emails
If you have any doubts about invoices, please contact us

Disputes and complaints

Sometimes things don't go as they should. Then you are entitled to a fair handling of your complaint. Water companies have mandatory complaints procedures.

Follow the complaints procedure:

First try to solve with customer service
Request a written response within 2 weeks
Not satisfied? Escalate to complaints coordinator
Final step: involve the dispute committee

Involve the Disputes Committee

The Energy and Water Disputes Committee handles complaints about water companies. Their ruling is binding. Costs for handling are low (approximately €25).

Legal protection for consumers

You have strong rights as a consumer:

Right to correct water supply
Right to correct invoicing
Right to compensation for damages
Right to independent dispute resolution

Mediation and arbitration

For complex disputes, you can try mediation. A neutral mediator helps parties reach an agreement. This is often faster and cheaper than legal proceedings.

Arrange water online when moving

The digital world is making water management moving easier and easier. All water companies are investing heavily in online services and user-friendly platforms.

Water company websites

Modern websites offer complete self-service possibilities. You can complete your application completely online without having to call. Upload documents, check rates and follow the status of your application.

Advantages of online services:

Available 24/7 (also on weekends)
Direct confirmation of your registration
Clear documents and contracts
Faster processing than telephone application
Automatic reminders and updates

Digital registration cancellation

With a few mouse clicks you can arrange both registration and cancellation. The systems of water companies are linked so that you do not have to enter twice. Smart!

Upload documents online

You can upload copies of IDs and contracts directly. The system automatically checks whether documents are complete. No more hassle with scanning and emailing.

Moving apps and platforms

Modern moving apps combine water, electricity and gas, internet and other services. Arranging everything via one platform saves a lot of time and administration.

Apps for reading meters

Various water companies have their own apps for reporting meter readings. You take a photo of your meter and the app automatically reads the numbers. No more chance of typing errors.

Popular moving apps:

Energievergelijk.nl (also compares water rates)
Gaslicht.com (complete moving service)
Water company apps (Vitens, PWN, etc.)
Municipal apps (often linked to address changes)

Advantages and disadvantages of digital processing:

Advantages	Cons
Fast and efficient	No personal contact
Available 24/7	Technical problems possible
Automatic checks	Less flexibility in complex situations
Direct confirmation	Digital skills needed

Customer Portals and My Account

Create an account for a water company: After you register, you will automatically receive access to the customer portal. Here you will find all your contract details, invoices and consumption history in one place. A storage for this is useful.

Online portal features:

Submit meter readings with one click
Download and pay invoices
Track and compare consumption
Change contact details
Report and track faults

App connectivity monitoring

Modern smart water meters automatically send your consumption to the customer portal. You see in real time how much water you use and receive warnings in case of unusual consumption.

Service support

You can contact customer service directly via the portal. Chat, email or callback function - you choose how you want to contact us. Often faster than traditional calling. Of course, you prefer to report a move on time!

Interprovincial move

Moving to another province brings additional challenges. You often have to change water companies, which means more administration. Are you staying in the same province? Then you obviously don't have this problem.

Various water companies

The Netherlands has regional water companies. When moving from North Holland to North Brabant, for example, you switch from PWN to Brabant Water. Both companies have their own procedures and rates. Look for water companies with a link so you can read more information about this.

Additional administrative procedures:

Two different cancellation/registration procedures
Various documents may be required
Other rates and contract conditions
Separate customer accounts and numbers

Tariff differences between provinces

Rates can vary considerably between provinces. For example, Vitens is more expensive than Brabant Water. Calculate this in your moving costs budget.

Timing coordination

Timing is extra important for interprovincial moves. You have to coordinate two different water companies. Therefore, start the procedures earlier than for local moves.

Moving abroad

Are you leaving the Netherlands for good? Then you must cancel your water connection permanently. There are special procedures for international relocation.

Permanently cancel water

When you permanently move abroad, you cancel your contract completely. No interim changes or changes of address - just complete termination.

Final settlement for international relocation

Your final bill will be sent to your new foreign address. Make sure you provide this address correctly. International post can take a long time. Choosing a new water company can be difficult.

Deposit refunds

Any deposits and overpaid advances will be returned to your Dutch bank account. Therefore, keep this account open for a while after your move. It is the case that this will be forwarded after a while.

Return procedures

Are you coming back to the Netherlands later? Then you are a new customer at the water company. Your old customer number and history are deleted. Then start again from scratch.

Arrange emergency water relocation

Sometimes you have to move unexpectedly quickly. Relationship breakdown, job change or other circumstances force you to make an emergency move. Even then you can arrange your water.

Last-minute procedures

Water companies have emergency procedures in place for emergencies. Call customer service immediately and explain your situation. They can often arrange your water connection within 24-48 hours.

In case of an emergency move, focus on the essentials:

Register your new home immediately (even if it is incomplete)
Submit meter reading for old home
Arrange cancellation within a week after moving
Add documentation later

Temporary solutions

Sometimes it is not possible to arrange everything perfectly. Water companies can offer temporary solutions. Think of provisional registration while you complete your documents.

Emergency procedures for water companies

All water companies have 24/7 emergency lines. For acute problems with water supply you can always call. They understand that life can be chaotic sometimes.

Complete moving checklist water

A good checklist prevents stress and forgetting moments. We made a complete checklist for water arranging moving.

6 weeks before moving:

<> Find out which water company is active in your new place of residence
<> View rates and services of new water company
<> Collect required documents (ID, BSN, bank details)
<> Check your current contract for notice periods

4 weeks before moving:

<> Register with new water company
<> Report your move to your current water company
<> Get confirmations for both registrations
<> Note customer numbers and contact details

2 weeks before moving:

<> Check contract confirmations for errors
<> Plan meter reading old house
<> Prepare meter reading for new home
<> Please contact us if you have any questions

1 week before moving:

<> Confirm start date of water supply to new home
<> Confirm end date of old home
<> Keep water company contact details at hand
<> Schedule time to record meter readings on moving day

Moving day:

<> Read the meter reading of the old house (as late as possible)
<> Take photos of meter readings as proof
<> Read the meter reading of the new home (as early as possible)
<> Test if water works in new house
<> Report problems immediately to the water company

Week after moving:

<> Provide meter readings to both water companies
<> Check first invoices for correctness
<> Keep all documents and confirmations
<> Update your address in customer accounts

Taking photos of meter readings

Always take photos of your meter readings with your phone. The date and time are automatically included in the metadata of the photo. This is legal evidence in the event of a dispute.

Save contact details of water companies

Save all contact details in your phone. Also add your customer number so that you always have it at hand. In case of problems, you can call the right number immediately.

Schedule overlap day

Plan one day overlap between your old and new home. This way you have buffer time if something goes wrong with timing. One day extra costs is better than a day without water.

Create backup plans

Think about what you will do if the water does not work on moving day. Where can you get water? What restaurants are nearby? A little preparation will save you a lot of stress. Are you moving? Then start arranging everything right away. Are you staying in the same area? Then everything will be easier.

What to do in case of problems

Water not working? Follow these steps:

Check if the main tap is open
Test different taps in your home
Ask neighbors if they have any problems too
Call the water company if everything has failed

Who to call in case of emergency

Every water company has a 24/7 emergency number. You can find these numbers on your water bill or website. In case of acute problems you can always call.

Maintain documentation

Save everything! Contract confirmations, invoices, email exchanges, photos of meter readings. In case of disputes, you already have all your documentation neatly in order.

Escalation procedures

Problem not solved via normal customer service? Then you can escalate:

Request a complaints coordinator
File an official complaint
Engage the disputes committee
Seek legal advice for complex matters

Frequently asked questions about water arrangements when moving

Question 1. Can I arrange water on moving day?

Technically it is possible, but it is not wise. Water companies need processing time. Plan at least 1 week in advance, preferably 2-4 weeks.

Question 2. How long does a water connection take?

For existing homes usually 1-3 working days for administrative processing. For new construction, technical connection can take weeks.

Question 3. What about a weekend move?

Water companies work during the week. So plan your registration during the week. In case of acute problems during the weekend, there are emergency services available.

Question 4. Minimum lead time for registration?

Officially you can register up to 24 hours in advance. But give yourself at least 1 week buffer. This way you avoid stress and problems.

Question 5. What are the costs of water connection procedures?

Sign up costs €15-25 administration fee. Cancellation costs €10-20. Deposit can be €50-150 for new customers with no credit history.

Question 6. How to avoid double costs?

Match your cancellation and registration dates precisely. Make sure both start on the same day. Check all contract confirmations for correct dates.

Question 7. When will I get my deposit back?

Usually after 12 months of loyal payment. Some water companies return the deposit sooner with a good payment history.

Question 8. Final settlement timing?

You will receive your final statement within 6 weeks after cancellation. Payment term is usually 30 days after receipt of invoice.

Question 9. Forgot to report meter reading?

Don't panic! Call your water company immediately. You can usually report meter readings a few days after moving. Take a photo as proof.

Question 10. Can't find the water meter?

Check meter cupboard, basement, utility room or outside at front door. Still not found? Call the water company - they know where it is.

Question 11. Incorrect information provided?

Contact customer service directly. Most errors can be corrected online or by phone. Major changes sometimes require new registration.

Question 12. Are contract changes possible?

Small changes (name, address, bank account) can always be made. Major changes such as transfer of ownership require new contracts.

Moving is happy to help you

Arranging water for a move doesn't have to be a headache if you follow the right steps. At Moving, we see every day that good preparation makes the difference between a smooth move and a stressful experience. When you're moving, you don't want this, but a water connection when moving is very important.

Key points to remember:

Start preparing 4-6 weeks before your move
Find out which water company is responsible for your new place of residence
Record meter readings accurately upon departure and arrival
Perfectly coordinate the timing of cancellation and registration
Please retain all documentation for any disputes

Early preparation is essential for success. Do not start too late because water companies need processing time. A day without water in your new home is no fun. Calling in professional help can be wise in complex situations. Think of interprovincial relocation, new construction or emergency relocation. We are available for advice and support.

With this complete guide you are well prepared for water arranging relocation. Follow the steps and everything will be fine. Do you have more questions? Then contact our customer service.