Setting Up Utilities in Cherry Hill, NJ

Moving into a new home is exciting, but setting up utilities can feel like a chore. Whether you are a first-time homeowner or a seasoned mover, this guide walks you through every utility you need to activate in Cherry Hill, including contact info, setup tips, and what to expect in terms of timing and deposits.

Electric Service: PSE&G

PSE&G (Public Service Electric and Gas) is the primary electric provider for Cherry Hill. Most homes in the township are served by PSE&G's reliable grid, which covers a large portion of New Jersey's residential and commercial needs.

• Phone: 1-800-436-7701
• Website: pseg.com
• Setup timing: Call at least 5 to 7 business days before your move-in date to ensure a smooth transfer or activation.
• What you will need: Your new address, move-in date, social security number or other ID, and a previous utility account number if you are transferring service.
• Deposits: PSE&G may require a deposit if you have no credit history or a history of late payments. The deposit amount is typically based on estimated usage for two months.

You can start, stop, or transfer service entirely online through the PSE&G website or by phone. Many homeowners find it easiest to schedule the transfer when they lock in their closing date.

Natural Gas: PSE&G

PSE&G also provides natural gas service to Cherry Hill. In most cases, your electric and gas accounts can be combined into a single bill. Gas is used primarily for heating, hot water, cooking, and clothes drying in many Cherry Hill homes.

• Phone: Same as PSE&G electric: 1-800-436-7701
• Website: pseg.com
• Tip: If the previous homeowner had gas service, your transfer is usually seamless. If the home has been vacant, an inspection may be required before reconnection.

Water Service: New Jersey American Water

Most Cherry Hill addresses receive water service from New Jersey American Water, a subsidiary of American Water Works. The company serves over 2.8 million people across the state.

• Phone: 1-800-272-1325
• Website: njamericanwater.com
• Setup timing: Contact them at least one week before moving in. A service initiation fee may apply.
• Billing: Monthly billing with options for paperless statements and auto-pay. Some homes may require a deposit based on credit history.

If you are buying a home, the closing attorney or real estate agent typically coordinates the final water meter reading and transfer of service. For rentals, the tenant is usually responsible for setting up the account in their name.

Sewer Service: Cherry Hill Township

Cherry Hill Township operates its own municipal sewer system. Unlike electric and water, sewer service is typically billed through the township and is tied to your property tax or utility bill rather than a separate monthly invoice.

• Department: Cherry Hill Township Public Works & Utilities
• Phone: (856) 488-7880
• Website: chnj.gov
• Note: Sewer fees are generally included in the township's sewer utility billing system and may be paid quarterly or annually. Check with the township for your specific property's billing schedule.

Trash and Recycling Collection

Cherry Hill provides municipal curbside trash and recycling collection for all residential properties. The township issues a green 95- or 64-gallon cart for trash and a blue cart for recyclables. Collection occurs once per week on a scheduled day based on your address.

• Department: Cherry Hill Township Public Works
• Phone: (856) 424-4422
• Guidelines: Place carts curbside after 5:30 PM the evening before your collection day or by 7 AM on collection day. Remove carts by 5:30 PM after collection.
• Recycling: Single-stream recycling is accepted (glass, aluminum, plastics #1 and #2, paper, cardboard). No plastic bags, food waste, or ceramics.

For a detailed breakdown of recycling rules, bulk pickup, and special disposal, read our full Recycling and Trash Collection Guide.

Internet, Cable and Phone

Cherry Hill is well-served by multiple internet and cable providers. Most residents have a choice between fiber-optic and cable internet, and many homes are wired for both.

• Xfinity (Comcast): Cable internet, TV, and phone. xfinity.com
• Verizon Fios: Fiber-optic internet, TV, and phone. verizon.com/fios
• Optimum (Altice): Cable internet and TV. optimum.com

Availability can vary by street and neighborhood, so check each provider's website with your specific address before moving. Fiber-optic service (Fios) is generally the fastest option where available. Many residents bundle internet with streaming services rather than traditional cable TV.

Tips for a Smooth Utility Setup

• Start early. Contact every utility at least two weeks before your move-in date. Some providers require appointments or inspections.
• Keep a spreadsheet. Track each provider, the phone number you called, the confirmation number, and the scheduled activation date.
• Read the meter. Take a photo of the electric, gas, and water meter readings on move-in day. This protects you from being billed for the previous owner's usage.
• Ask about auto-pay. Most utilities offer a small discount or convenience benefit for enrolling in paperless billing and auto-pay.
• Check for senior or low-income discounts. PSE&G and New Jersey American Water offer assistance programs for qualifying households. Visit the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities website for details.

Need Help Finding the Right Home?

Setting up utilities is just one part of the home buying process. If you are shopping for a home in Cherry Hill and want an experienced agent who knows the market inside and out, I would be glad to help. Bob Millaway has helped more than 728 families buy and sell homes in South Jersey.