Vancouver

๐Ÿ”Œ

Utilities and Services

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.