How do I get the utilities in my apartment connected when I move in?

Carly Bode, International Affairs Division

Connecting electricity

There are several different electric companies throughout the country. In the Kantō area, including Ibaraki, Tōkyō Electric Company is the power supplier. When you start using electricity, fill out the postcard attached to the power meter and send it in.

Switches to turn on

To turn on the electricity, please follow these instructions:

  1. Turn on the switch on the power meter.
  2. Turn on the switch on the main circuit breaker.
  3. If necessary, turn on the switch for the individual interior circuits.

Power meter

If you use too many electrical appliances at one time, you may trip the circuit breaker. If this happens, turn off several electrical appliances to reduce the load and turn the breaker switch on again.

If this happens frequently, contact the Tōkyō Electric Power Company, increase the amperage in the contract and have them change the power meter. Changing the meter is free, but the basic monthly rates for electric service will change.

Amperage 10 A 15 A 20 A 30 A 40 A 50 A 60 A
Meter color Red Pink Yellow Green Gray Brown Purple

Appliances

The electrical current in Ibaraki Prefecture is 100 volts at 50 Hertz. If you move to western Japan where the frequency is different (60 Hertz), you may need to adjust or replace some appliances. Refer to your owner's manuals or check at an appliance store.

Remember that the voltage required for many foreign appliances is different from that for products made in Japan.

Gas connection

Before moving into a new house, call the local area gas substation, notify them of when you are moving in and ask them to provide you with the necessary services (opening the gas valve, or an inspection).

When you move out, be sure to call and tell them your moving date and account number (printed on your receipts or inspection papers).

The local area gas substation will send someone to your home to cut off the gas supply and settle your account.

Types of gas

Different types of gas are supplied to different areas. The type of gas provided is indicated on a sticker in the kitchen or on your inspection papers.

Gas appliances should match the kind of gas available. It is extremely dangerous to use an appliance which is not properly adjusted.

If appliances from your previous residence do not match the gas available at your new location, ask the gas company to adjust the appliances.

Types of gas in Ibaraki prefecture:

  • Natural gas
  • Propane gas

Water heater

Many apartments in Japan do not have hot running water. If you purchase a water heater, call the gas company to install it.

Gas safety

Please take the following precautions when using gas.

  • Always visually verify the gas flame when you turn it on or off.
  • Turn off the gas valve at night and before leaving your house.
  • Before turning on the gas in the bathtub, check the water level.
  • Be sure to use a ventilation fan.

If you smell gas, please do the following:

  • Open all windows and doors.
  • Natural gas disperses into the air when it is released because it is lighter than air.
  • Propane gas is heavier than air so it must be swept out.
  • Shut off the gas valve and meter.
  • Call your nearest gas substation.
  • Do not turn any electrical switches on or off.

A safety device that emits a warning sound in the event of a gas leak may be leased.

Gas bill example
1) Customer #, amount of gas used; 2) Term of use; 3) Current meter reading; 4) Previous meter reading; 5) Charge for amount used, and base charge; 6) Period of use; 7) Amount used; 8) Total charge

Rates for gas

The gas rate is determined by adding a base charge and a charge for the amount used.

The base charge is fixsed for each type of gas. The gas company inspects the meter each month and calculates the amount of use.

Payment:

  • Automatic withdrawal, or
  • Bill sent each month after inspection of the meter and paid through a bank or in person to the gas company.

Water service

When moving in or out, call the water service department of your city hall to start or discontinue water service.

Leaks: for repair of leaking faucets, call the water department of your city or town.

Water bills

A water bill may be sent once a month or once every two months. It includes a basic charge, and in areas with sewage systems, an additional charge, based on the amount of water used.

There are three methods of payment. You can have the amount due automatically deducted from your bank account, you can pay in cash, or with a monthly manual bank transfer using a furikaeyōshi.