Moving into a new home is exciting, but sorting out utilities can feel like a maze. If you’re closing or just got your keys in Westbrook, you want water running, lights on, and a plan for trash without hiccups. This guide lays out who to contact, what to expect, and how to handle water, power, and waste the right way in Westbrook. You’ll find simple steps, trusted links, and local tips to make move-in day smooth. Let’s dive in.
Utility basics in Westbrook
Westbrook’s services are a mix of public utilities and town-managed programs. Here’s the quick overview so you know where to start:
- Electric: Eversource is the primary electric utility. You can start or transfer service, manage your account, and report outages through Eversource Connecticut.
- Water: Many properties are served by Connecticut Water (CT Water). Others use private wells. To start service or check water quality, visit the Connecticut Water customer pages.
- Trash and recycling: Westbrook operates a town transfer station for disposal, recycling, and bulky items. Hours, fees, and sticker rules are posted on the Town of Westbrook website. For hazardous items that don’t belong at the transfer station, see the CT DEEP Household Hazardous Waste page.
Set up electric with Eversource
Eversource handles electric delivery, meters, and outage response in Westbrook. Setting up service is straightforward, and you can do most of it online.
Start or transfer service
- Create or log in to your account on Eversource Connecticut.
- Have your property address, move-in date, and identification ready. If you’re renting, proof of tenancy may be required.
- If the meter is active, service may start remotely. If not, schedule a technician visit.
- Be prepared for a possible deposit or credit check based on current policy.
Outages and safety
- Use Eversource’s outage tools to report an outage and check restoration estimates on their Connecticut site.
- Treat any downed wire as live. Call to report it immediately and keep a safe distance.
Planning solar or upgrades
- If you’re considering rooftop solar or need a meter upgrade for renovations, follow Eversource’s interconnection requirements. Start with their Connecticut customer pages for applications and guidelines.
Water service and wastewater
Water service in Westbrook varies by location. Many homes connect to CT Water. Some rely on private wells. Wastewater may be municipal sewer in certain areas, though many properties use septic systems.
Public water with CT Water
- To start or transfer service, visit the Connecticut Water customer pages. You’ll provide your property details, move-in date, and contact information.
- Check the latest water-quality information through CT Water’s annual Consumer Confidence Reports on their site.
- Fees or deposits may apply. CT Water’s customer service pages outline current policies and forms.
Private wells
- If your home uses a well, plan to test the water for bacteria and common contaminants and review recent test results from the seller if available.
- Keep maintenance records for the pump and casing. If you’re buying, a well inspection is a smart step during due diligence.
Sewer vs septic
- Some parts of Westbrook connect to municipal sewer, while many homes use septic systems. Confirm your home’s setup through seller disclosures or town records.
- For septic systems, schedule routine pumping and inspections. If you’re buying, request a septic inspection and pump documentation.
- For sewer-connected properties, confirm any sewer use charges or assessment details with the town. You can find department contacts starting at the Town of Westbrook website.
Trash, recycling, and bulky items
Westbrook manages solid waste at the town transfer station. Understanding the rules early helps you avoid extra trips and unexpected fees.
Transfer station basics
- The transfer station is where residents bring household trash, recyclables, and many bulky items. Check current hours, holiday closures, and accepted materials on the Town of Westbrook website.
- Many Connecticut towns require a resident sticker or proof of residency for access. The town site will outline how to obtain one and list any fees.
What to bring and what to avoid
- Commonly accepted items include household trash, mixed recycling, scrap metal, and yard waste. Tires, appliances, and electronics are often accepted with specific rules or fees.
- Do not bring paints, solvents, pesticides, or other hazardous materials to the transfer station. Instead, use regional collection events posted by the CT DEEP Household Hazardous Waste page. Pre-registration may be required.
Curbside and contractors
- Curbside pickup and construction debris rules can differ by town and hauler. Confirm Westbrook’s current policies and any private hauler options on the town site.
- For large projects, a private dumpster may be the simplest route. Some transfer stations have separate rules for contractor loads or demolition materials.
New resident setup checklist
Use this quick list to organize your move-in and avoid surprises.
- Confirm your utility mix. Identify electric provider, water source (CT Water or private well), and wastewater system (sewer or septic).
- Start electric service. Open or transfer your account on Eversource Connecticut. Schedule any needed meter activation.
- Set up water service if applicable. If your home is in CT Water’s service area, open or transfer your account through the Connecticut Water customer pages. For wells, schedule testing and a system check.
- Verify trash and recycling access. Check the Town of Westbrook website for transfer station hours, accepted items, sticker requirements, and fees.
- Plan for hazardous items. Review the CT DEEP Household Hazardous Waste page and mark your calendar for an event.
- Save emergency contacts. Bookmark Eversource’s Connecticut pages for outage reporting and CT Water’s site for service notices.
- Keep records. Ask the seller for recent utility bills, well test results, and septic pump dates. Store any transfer station sticker receipt and fee schedule.
Local tips for a smooth start
- Time your turn-ons. Start electric and water setup about a week before move-in so technicians can schedule visits if needed.
- Verify before you haul. Transfer station hours and fee schedules change seasonally. Check the town site the morning you plan to go.
- Label the odd stuff. Batteries, old chemicals, and certain paints need special handling. Separate these items and hold them for the next HHW event.
- Think ahead for irrigation. If your home has an irrigation system or pool, ask about backflow prevention requirements and testing so you stay compliant.
- Keep it safe in storms. After severe weather, check Eversource’s outage tools and report downed wires immediately. If you suspect a water main issue, review CT Water’s customer pages for emergency guidance.
How we can help
If you’re buying or selling in Westbrook, you don’t have to navigate utilities alone. As part of a smooth closing, you’ll get a clear checklist, reminders for start and stop dates, and local guidance on transfer station access, wells, and septic records. If questions come up during escrow or after you move in, reach out anytime and we’ll point you to the right town or utility resource.
Ready to make your move easier? Schedule a free consultation with Clare Guest for local guidance and a calm, organized plan from offer to move-in.
FAQs
Who provides electric service in Westbrook, CT?
- Eversource is the primary electric utility. Start or transfer service through the Eversource Connecticut customer pages.
How do I set up water service for a Westbrook home?
How can I tell if a Westbrook property is on sewer or septic?
- Confirm through seller disclosures or town records. Many Westbrook homes use septic, while some areas connect to municipal sewer. Start with the Town of Westbrook website.
Where do I take bulky items and electronics in Westbrook, CT?
- Use the town transfer station for most disposal and recycling. Check hours, sticker rules, accepted items, and fees on the Town of Westbrook website.
How do I dispose of paint, solvents, or pesticides near Westbrook?
What documents do I need to start utilities in Westbrook?
- Expect to provide your address, move-in date, and identification. For rentals, proof of tenancy may be required. Utility deposits or credit checks may apply per current policies on provider sites.
