Vancouver

๐Ÿ”Œ

Utilities and Services

Information about setting up utilities such as electricity, gas, water, and internet in Vancouver.

Sections

1. Electricity and Natural Gas

Electricity and natural gas are essential utilities in Vancouver, and they are primarily provided by two major companies:

Electricity

  • Provider: BC Hydro
  • Service Overview: BC Hydro supplies electricity to most of British Columbia, including Vancouver. The electricity is primarily generated from hydroelectric dams, making it a relatively clean and renewable energy source.
  • Costs:
    • Residential electricity rates are tiered:
      • Tier 1: $0.0950 per kWh for the first 1,350 kWh over a two-month billing period.
      • Tier 2: $0.1408 per kWh for usage above 1,350 kWh.
    • A basic charge of approximately $0.206 per day applies.
    • Average monthly cost for a small apartment: $50โ€“$100.
    • Larger homes may pay $150โ€“$300 per month, depending on usage.
  • How to Set Up:
    1. Visit the BC Hydro website (bchydro.com) or call their customer service.
    2. Provide your address, identification, and move-in date.
    3. A security deposit may be required if you have no credit history in Canada.
  • Billing: Bills are issued every two months, but you can opt for monthly billing or equal payment plans.

Natural Gas

  • Provider: FortisBC
  • Service Overview: FortisBC provides natural gas for heating, cooking, and hot water.
  • Costs:
    • Basic charge: $0.421 per day.
    • Usage charge: Approximately $11โ€“$15 per gigajoule (GJ), depending on the season.
    • Average monthly cost: $50โ€“$150, depending on home size and usage.
  • How to Set Up:
    1. Contact FortisBC (fortisbc.com) or call their customer service.
    2. Provide your address, identification, and move-in date.
    3. A security deposit may be required for new customers.
  • Local Tip: Vancouverโ€™s mild climate means heating costs are lower than in other parts of Canada, but energy-efficient appliances and insulation can further reduce costs.

2. Water and Sewer Services

  • Provider: City of Vancouver
  • Service Overview: Water and sewer services are managed by the City of Vancouver. The water is sourced from nearby reservoirs and is of high quality.
  • Costs:
    • Water and sewer charges are typically included in property taxes for homeowners.
    • For renters, these costs are usually included in the rent unless specified otherwise.
    • Metered water rates (for businesses or some properties): $4.317 per unit (1 unit = 2,831.6 liters).
  • How to Set Up:
    • If you are a homeowner, water services are automatically connected when you move in.
    • For renters, confirm with your landlord whether water charges are included in your rent.
  • Local Tip: Vancouver encourages water conservation. Consider using low-flow fixtures and being mindful of water usage, especially during summer months when restrictions may apply.

3. Waste Management

  • Provider: City of Vancouver
  • Service Overview: The city provides garbage, recycling, and organic waste collection services.
  • Costs:
    • Waste management fees are included in property taxes for homeowners.
    • For renters, these costs are typically included in the rent.
  • Collection Schedule:
    • Garbage: Every two weeks.
    • Recycling: Every two weeks (alternating with garbage collection).
    • Food scraps and yard waste (organics): Weekly.
  • How to Set Up:
    • Services are automatically provided to all residential properties.
    • Check your collection schedule on the City of Vancouver website (vancouver.ca).
  • Local Tip: Vancouver has strict recycling and composting rules. Ensure you separate recyclables, organics, and garbage properly to avoid fines.

4. Internet and Mobile Services

Vancouver has a variety of internet and mobile service providers offering competitive plans.

Internet

  • Major Providers:
  • Costs:
    • Basic plans (50 Mbps): $50โ€“$70 per month.
    • High-speed plans (300 Mbps or more): $80โ€“$120 per month.
    • Installation fees: $0โ€“$100 (often waived during promotions).
  • How to Set Up:
    1. Compare plans online or call providers for the best deals.
    2. Schedule an installation appointment.
    3. Provide your address and identification.
  • Local Tip: Look for bundle deals that combine internet, TV, and phone services for savings.

Mobile Services

  • Major Providers:
    • Telus, Rogers, Bell (main providers with extensive coverage).
    • Fido, Koodo, Virgin Plus (budget-friendly subsidiaries of the main providers).
    • Freedom Mobile (cheaper plans but limited coverage outside urban areas).
  • Costs:
    • Basic plans (unlimited talk/text, 2โ€“5 GB data): $40โ€“$60 per month.
    • Premium plans (unlimited data): $80โ€“$120 per month.
  • How to Set Up:
    1. Visit a providerโ€™s store or website.
    2. Choose a plan and provide identification.
    3. If youโ€™re new to Canada, you may need to pay a deposit or provide proof of creditworthiness.
  • Local Tip: Bring your own unlocked phone to avoid additional device costs.

5. Public Transportation

  • Provider: TransLink
  • Service Overview: TransLink operates buses, SkyTrain (light rail), SeaBus (ferry), and West Coast Express (commuter train) in Metro Vancouver.
  • Costs:
    • Compass Card (reloadable transit card):
      • Monthly pass: $102.55 (1 zone), $137.10 (2 zones), $185.20 (3 zones).
      • Single fare: $3.20 (1 zone), $4.55 (2 zones), $5.90 (3 zones).
    • Discounts available for students, seniors, and children.
  • How to Set Up:
    1. Purchase a Compass Card at a SkyTrain station, online, or at select retailers.
    2. Load money or a monthly pass onto the card.
  • Local Tip: Use the TransLink Trip Planner or the Compass Card app to navigate the system efficiently.

6. Other Services

Postal Services

  • Provider: Canada Post
  • Costs:
    • Domestic letter: $1.07 (standard size, up to 30g).
    • International letter: $2.71 (standard size, up to 30g).
  • How to Access:
    • Visit a Canada Post office or use mailboxes located throughout the city.
    • For package delivery, consider private couriers like FedEx or UPS for faster service.

Emergency Services

  • Emergency Number: 911 (for police, fire, and ambulance).
  • Non-Emergency Numbers:
    • Police: 604-717-3321.
    • Fire: 604-665-6000.

Local Tips and Considerations

  1. Sustainability: Vancouver is a green city with a strong focus on sustainability. Take advantage of energy-efficient appliances, public transit, and recycling programs.
  2. Language: English is the primary language, but many services are also available in French, Mandarin, Cantonese, and Punjabi due to the cityโ€™s multicultural population.
  3. Payment Options: Most utility providers accept online payments, pre-authorized debit, or credit cards. Setting up auto-pay can help you avoid late fees.
  4. Moving In: Notify utility providers at least two weeks before your move-in date to ensure services are activated on time.

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to set up and manage utilities and services in Vancouver, ensuring a smooth transition to life in this vibrant city.