Picture this: you’ve just stepped into your new Portuguese abode. The sun streams through the windows, casting a warm glow on the terracotta tiles. The aroma of fresh pastéis de nata wafts in from a nearby bakery. It’s perfect, except for one small detail – you can’t turn on the lights, run the tap, or cook your dinner.
Welcome to the often overlooked, yet crucial chapter of your Portuguese adventure – setting up utilities.
Setting up water, electricity, and gas isn’t rocket science, but doing it in a new country and in another language isn’t always easy.
Don’t worry, though: at Portugalist we’ve helped hundreds of people set up their utilities. So whether you’re unsure of which electricity supplier you need or whether you’re struggling to find an English-speaking customer service rep at the water company, we’re here to help.
Do It Yourself or Delegate?
Not in the mood for a bureaucratic adventure? We get it. That’s why at Portugalist, we’re here to take the reins. Just fill out our form, sit back, and let us wrangle those utilities into submission for you.
Other White Knights
- Renting? Your landlord might be your utility fairy godparent. Many are happy to help or even handle it entirely.
- Buying? Your buyer’s agent, lawyer, or even the seller’s agent might step up. Some estate agents even throw in utility setup as a freebie.
What You’ll Need
To set up your utility contract, you’ll typically need to provide:
- A Portuguese address
- Identification (passport or European ID card)
- NIF (Portuguese tax number)
- Phone number (Portuguese mobile preferred)
- Email address
- Proof of address (lease or property deed)
- Bank details (Portuguese bank accounts work best)
- Preferred installation date
- Previous tenant’s bill with CPE code (código de ponto de entrega)
Don’t have these things? We can help you get a NIF number or Portuguese bank account.
While a Portuguese bank account is typically required for utility services, some providers are becoming more flexible. They may accept European bank accounts with IBAN numbers, including online or app-based accounts like Wise. If you go this route, be prepared to provide proof of account ownership.
Unlike long-term phone and internet contracts, you can switch utility providers at any time, offering more flexibility.
If the electricity was disconnected by previous occupants, reconnection usually takes 4-5 days and typically doesn’t require the company to enter the property.
Remember, while this process might seem daunting at first, it’s a standard part of settling into your new Portuguese life. With these documents in hand and a bit of patience, you’ll be well on your way to a fully functioning home in no time.
Tips & Tricks
Navigating Portuguese Utilities: Tips and Tricks
As you set up your new life in Portugal, here are some insider tips to help you manage your utilities more effectively:
- Divide and Conquer: For couples, consider putting different utility bills in each partner’s name. This clever strategy ensures you both have official proof of address, which can be incredibly useful for various administrative purposes down the line.
- Payment Options: You have two main choices when it comes to paying your bills:
- Direct debit: Set it and forget it. This option offers convenience but keep an eye on your statements.
- Manual payments via Multibanco: Gives you more control but requires regular attention. Choose the method that best fits your lifestyle and financial habits.
- A Word of Caution: It’s worth noting that Portuguese utility companies aren’t always known for their stellar customer service, particularly when it comes to cancelling contracts. Be prepared for potential challenges and keep thorough records of all communications.
- Stay on Top of Your Usage: Most providers allow you to submit meter readings online. Take advantage of this feature – it helps ensure your bills are based on actual usage rather than estimates, potentially saving you from overcharges.
By keeping these points in mind, you’ll be better equipped to handle the nuances of Portuguese utilities. Remember, a little knowledge goes a long way in making your transition smoother and your new Portuguese life more enjoyable.
Arranging Electricity
Unlike water, where choice is limited, Portugal’s electricity market offers a buffet of options. EDP stands as the giant, but contenders like Galp Energia, Endesa, and Iberdrola are also worth considering. Often, these companies bundle electricity and piped gas services, conveniently presenting them on a single bill.
Weighing up providers
But which provider should you choose? It’s not just about the bottom line. While price comparison websites like Comparamais.pt, Poupaenergia.pt, Comparaja.pt, and Simulador.precos.erse.pt can give you a financial overview, consider other factors too. An English-speaking helpline or a smooth connection process might be worth their weight in gold when you’re new to the country.
Most providers offer a range of tariffs. Some plans feature lower rates during off-peak hours, particularly at night. These can be financially savvy if you’re willing to run your dishwasher or washing machine during these hours. It’s all about adapting your habits to maximize savings.
Another crucial factor is the electricity output. Cheaper tariffs often come with a catch – they might cut out if you run multiple high-powered appliances simultaneously. Imagine blow-drying your hair while heating up lunch in the microwave, only to find yourself suddenly plunged into darkness.
If you’d rather avoid frequent trips to the fuse box or unexpected internet resets, consider upgrading to a more powerful tariff. Yes, it costs more, but many find the peace of mind well worth the extra expense.
A word of caution: always double-check the final price. Sometimes, the advertised rate doesn’t include taxes or other fees, which can significantly impact your actual bill.
Gas
Gas isn’t a universal feature in Portuguese homes, particularly when it comes to mains gas. However, if your property does have gas capabilities, it’s worth considering as a cost-effective alternative to electricity.
To find the best deal, you can utilize the same comparison websites mentioned for electricity. However, convenience often trumps minor price differences. Many providers, such as EDP and Endesa, offer both electricity and gas services. Most residents opt for this bundled approach, simplifying their utility management with a single provider and bill.
If you do have gas, keep in mind that safety comes first. Portuguese regulations require a gas safety inspection every 2-4 years. While this does incur a fee, it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind and legal compliance.
For properties without access to mains gas, bottled gas is a common alternative. These gas bottles are readily available and can be exchanged at local supermarkets or petrol stations. Some companies even offer a delivery service, adding an extra layer of convenience to your gas supply.
Water
Unlike the competitive markets of electricity and gas, water supply in Portugal is typically managed by a single company in each region. This means your options are limited, but it also simplifies the process of getting connected.
For instance, if you’re in the capital and surrounding areas, Aguas de Lisboa e Vale do Tejo will be your go-to provider. Down in the sunny Algarve? Aguas do Algarve has you covered. It’s worth noting that costs can vary between regions. Generally, you’ll find lower rates in less densely populated areas like inland Portugal, while popular coastal regions like the Algarve tend to be pricier.
Now, let’s address a common concern among newcomers: Is Portuguese tap water safe to drink? The short answer is yes, it is. However, the quality and taste can vary depending on your location and the time of year. Some areas might have harder water or a stronger chlorine taste.
If you find yourself less than thrilled with your tap water, don’t fret. There are several solutions:
- Install a BRITA tap filter
- Set up a reverse osmosis system
- Invest in a water softener
- Use a simple Brita filter jug
These options can help improve taste and reduce hardness, ensuring you can enjoy refreshing Portuguese water straight from the tap.
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