Turning on Utilities

[Pat Arneson]

Are there any tips, tricks, or guides for turning on utilities after close of escrow and possession? This particular property (townhouse) has been bank-owned and vacant for the last 14 months. I am assuming all utilities were turned off. For water, is it best to hire a plumber to come out, turn on, and assess? I've read a few guides about turning the main on gradually, going fixture to fixture one at a time, etc. Once everything is pressurized, check the meter to see if it's running. I'm unsure how to handle the water heater. Commonly it's gas.

What about electric and gas? The utility will turn on both. I'm assuming they would sniff for gas leaks once turning that meter on?

I'd prefer to play it as safe as possible. Do folks here just let their contractor handle it?

Thanks!