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Do you need to set up gas at home? Perhaps you are moving to Japan for the first time or relocating to a new apartment within Japan. This article outlines the steps required to set up gas and provides guidance on closing the gas connection when moving out of your property. For setting up electricity, or water, as well as want to view quick video guide, please refer to article below. This article is based on the information provided by Tokyo Gas.
Step1: Contact the gas company you used at your previous residence
As soon as your moving-out date is confirmed, please contact your current residence’s gas company by phone or online to request service termination. In Japan, March, April, and September are popular moving seasons. Due to potential high demand and a reservation system, it is recommended to initiate the process at least one week before your moving day. Once your moving date is confirmed, it is advisable to make the reservation promptly for a smoother transition.
What you need for a phone call or online registration:
- Subscriber information such as your name, phone number, and customer ID.
- Location information including your address and building type (A house or apartment).
- Desired date and time for service termination.
Step2: Contact your preferred gas company for your new residence
Once your moving date has been confirmed, please contact the new gas company at your new residence to arrange for the gas meter installation. If you plan to continue using the same gas company as your previous residence, it is advisable to make a reservation for your new place during Step 1 for a smoother transition.
Step3: Turn off the gas main valve at your old residence
On the scheduled day determined in Step 1, a technician will visit your old residence. Generally, your presence is not required during this process. However, in situations where the gas meter is indoors or in apartments with automatic locking systems, your on-site presence may be necessary.
Step4: Open the gas meter valve at your new residence
On the moving-in date, the technician will visit your new place on the scheduled date from Step 2. It is essential to be present when starting to use gas. The technician will conduct an ignition confirmation and explain safety procedures under the customer’s supervision inside the premises.
Points to Note
- Payment for moving out
Normally, the gas company will calculate the gas fee on a prorated basis, considering the number of days and the amount of gas used from the day after the meter reading date just before the gas usage was stopped until the day of usage suspension. Payment can be settled using your current payment method. Therefore, if you used to pay via bank transfer or credit card, it is advisable not to cancel your bank account or credit card for a while.
- Regarding the witness
To set up gas, a witness is required. This is mandated by law for safety reasons. Gas line opening must be performed by a certified professional, who will also explain to the tenant how to use the gas safely. If it’s difficult for you to be present on the appointed day, it’s possible to have a friend or someone else act as your representative. In such cases, when making arrangements with the gas company for the opening date, they will typically ask for the name and relationship of your representative. Therefore, if a representative is needed, it’s advisable to arrange this with a friend or someone else in advance for a smoother process.
- Gas line opening on weekend
Gas line openings are typically available even on weekends and bank holidays. However, due to high demand during these times, it is advisable to make a reservation with the gas company well in advance if you wish to schedule the service on a weekend.
