Setting Up Electricity for Renters in Texas

Moving brings a never-ending to-do list: packing boxes, renting a truck or hiring movers, cleaning out closets and scrubbing countertops, and last but not least—unpacking. Near the top of that list is getting the lights turned on so you can crank up the AC and start listening to your favorite playlist as you unpack.

Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, transferring electricity service or signing up for a brand-new plan doesn’t have to be a headache. Here’s a quick, no-stress guide to getting your electricity squared away as a Texas renter.

Step 1: Check Your Lease (Who Pays What?)

Before you start shopping for electricity for your house or apartment, double-check your lease or ask your landlord one simple question: Is electricity included, or is it on you?

• If it’s included: Easy enough! Your landlord handles the electricity account, and you’ll typically pay for your share through your rent or a separate utility fee.
• If it’s on you: Welcome to Texas energy! In areas with a deregulated electricity market, you have the freedom to shop around and choose the best electricity provider and plan that fits your lifestyle and budget.

If you’re responsible for setting up your own electricity, don’t wait until moving day to figure it out. Knowing who handles the account—and when you need to have service turned on—can help you avoid a dark house, a very warm apartment, or scrambling to get service at the last minute, and potentially paying more for electricity.

Step 2: Pick a Plan That Fits Your Budget & Timeline

Flexibility is everything when you’re renting an apartment or house.

Whether you’re staying for six months or three years, Payless Power offers electricity options designed to fit different budgets and lifestyles. Choose a traditional postpaid plan with end-of-the-month billing, or go with a prepaid plan if you want more flexibility without a credit check or security deposit.

The right plan depends on your financial situation, how long you’re planning to stay, and how you prefer to pay for your electricity. The good news? You have options.

Best Electricity Plans for Renters

If you live in one of Texas’ deregulated cities—which covers roughly 85% of the state—it’s time to pick your provider. If you’re looking for total control over your power bill, you’re in the right place.

Payless Power is one of the few energy providers to offer both postpaid electricity plans and prepaid plans designed to meet your unique needs, with the option to select a fixed-rate plan with contracts as short as six months to as long as 36 months.
Depending on your financial goals and moving timeline, you generally have two routes:

• Traditional Postpaid Plans: Pay once a month after you use your energy. (Best if you prefer a standard monthly bill, though it may require a credit check or security deposit upfront).
• Prepaid Electricity Plans: Pay-as-you-go power. (Best if you want to skip credit checks, avoid large upfront deposits, and monitor your usage in real time).

A Texas Renter’s Guide to Setting Up Utilities in Your Apartment

Ready to get your utilities squared away? Follow these three simple steps.

Step 1: Know Your Move-In Timeline

• Plan ahead: Set up electricity 1 to 2 weeks before move-in whenever possible.
• Need power fast? Same-day electricity may be available if your property has an eligible smart meter.
• Moving your existing service? Contact your current provider 2 to 3 weeks before your move to coordinate service at both addresses.

Pro Tip: Forgot to set up your electricity? If you have a smart meter, Payless Power may be able to connect eligible service the same day.

Step 2: Gather Your Details

Have these ready when you enroll:

• Exact new address: Include your apartment or unit number.
• Move-in date: Schedule service to start when your lease begins.
• Basic identification: Have the information required by your chosen plan ready.

Pro Tip: Payless Power prepaid plans don’t require a credit check or security deposit. In many cases, you can sign up without a driver’s license or Social Security Number!

Step 3: Test Your Power

Once you get the keys, do a quick power check before the unpacking begins:

• Flip the light switches.
• Test a few outlets.
• Turn on the AC or heat.

If something isn’t working, contact your electricity provider right away so you can get it resolved before the boxes take over.

Setting Up Utilities in a Rental House vs. an Apartment

Renting a house or townhouse can come with a few more utility responsibilities than renting an apartment. Before move-in, check your lease and ask your landlord which utilities you’re responsible for and which, if any, stay in the owner’s name.

You may need to set up:

• Electricity: Choose an electricity provider and plan for your rental address.
• Natural gas: Some homes use gas for heating, water heaters, or appliances.
• Water and sewer: Check with your landlord to see if these are included or need to be set up in your name.
• Trash and recycling: Find out whether collection is provided by the city or a private company.
• Internet: Ask your landlord if the property has a preferred provider or existing service.

Pro Tip: Don’t assume that utilities work the same way at every rental. A quick conversation with your landlord before move-in can help you avoid surprises—and make sure everything you need is ready when you get the keys.

Signing Up for Payless Power for Your Rental

Getting reliable, affordable electricity for your new apartment or rental house can be simple. Once you’ve chosen the plan that fits your needs, getting started with Payless Power takes just a few steps.

Choose Your Plan

Select the option that works best for your budget and lifestyle. Choose a prepaid plan with no credit check or security deposit and pay as you go, or select a traditional postpaid plan with monthly billing.

Sign Up Online or by Phone

Ready to get started? Enroll online in just a few minutes or call Payless Power and speak with a friendly, bilingual customer service specialist.

Fund Your Prepaid Account

If you choose a prepaid plan, make your initial payment online or from your phone to activate your service. When your balance gets low, you can easily add funds or set up autopay to help keep your service running.

Keep Track of Your Usage

Stay on top of your electricity costs with free daily text or email alerts showing your energy usage, costs, and account balance.

You can also review your Statement of Usage and Payments each month for a clear look at your electricity usage and payment history.

Texas Renter Protections

Regardless if you’re renting a house or an apartment in Texas, knowing your rights can help you plan your move and protect your budget.

A few things renters should know:

• Security deposits: Texas doesn’t set a maximum amount a landlord can charge for a security deposit. The amount and terms should be spelled out in your lease, so read the fine print before signing.
• Getting your deposit back: In most cases, landlords have 30 days after you move out to return your security deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions. Be sure to give your landlord your forwarding address in writing.
• Application fees: Landlords can charge application fees to cover costs such as background and credit checks. If you have less-than-perfect credit, keep these fees in mind as you compare rental options.
• Your rental’s condition: Texas landlords are responsible for maintaining rental properties in livable condition, subject to state law.

Pro Tip: Moving costs can add up quickly. Before signing a lease, ask about all upfront costs, including the security deposit, application fees, utility deposits (if the landlord handles the utilities), and other move-in fees.

Don’t Let a Utility Deposit Break Your Moving Budget

Getting approved for your rental is only part of the move. Once you have the keys, you may still need to set up electricity—and some traditional electricity plans may require a credit check or security deposit.

That’s where prepaid electricity can make a difference.

With a Payless Power prepaid plan, you can get electricity without a credit check or security deposit. Instead, you add funds to your account and pay for your electricity as you use it. You can also receive daily usage and balance alerts to help keep track of your energy spending.

So while you may not be able to avoid every move-in expense, you don’t necessarily need another large deposit just to turn on the lights.