Moving to Linden and want your lights, water, and sewer ready on day one? Setting up utilities can feel like a puzzle, especially when timelines and deposits vary. With a simple plan, you can avoid delays and last‑minute surprises. In this guide, you’ll find who to call, what to have ready, and how Linden’s providers handle start, stop, and billing. Let’s dive in.
Quick contacts for Linden utilities
- Water: New Jersey American Water (NJAW) — 1-800-272-1325
- Sewer: Linden Roselle Sewerage Authority (LRSA) — 908-862-7100
- City of Linden Tax Collector (collects LRSA payments) — 908-474-8434
- Electric: PSE&G — 1-800-436-PSEG (7734)
Tip: Some properties have different arrangements like private wells or septic systems. Confirm utility details in your listing or closing documents.
Water: New Jersey American Water
NJAW handles account setup, meter reads, and billing. You can request turn-on or turn-off service online or by phone, and NJAW will start billing from an actual meter read when service exists. For properties that never had service, NJAW schedules a meter installation and may need access to the home.
- Start or stop service online: review steps for turn-on and final reads on the NJAW page for turning service on or off.
- New to the building: request a meter and service through new water service installation. NJAW typically reaches out within about five business days to begin the process.
- Deposits: NJAW may require a deposit based on credit. Have your service address, billing address, and a phone number ready.
Lead service line check
New Jersey requires water systems to identify and replace lead and galvanized service lines by 2031. Use NJAW’s public inventory and program portal to check status for a specific property at the lead service line replacement site. The state mandate is outlined in New Jersey law. Ask the seller or landlord if the private service line has been identified and whether any replacement work is complete or scheduled.
Sewer: LRSA and City of Linden
LRSA operates the sewer system that serves Linden and Roselle. Sewer charges are administered by LRSA, and the City of Linden Tax Collector collects payments. LRSA also posts annual sewer bill adjustment applications and deadlines for property owners.
- Billing and adjustments: review LRSA’s current process and deadlines on the sewer bill adjustment application page.
- Paying your bill: the City of Linden Tax Collector collects LRSA payments. See contacts and payment options on the Tax Collector page.
- At closing: sellers typically cover charges up to the closing date. Buyers and sellers should verify the sewer account status early to avoid surprises, since unpaid amounts can be enforced like municipal liens.
Electric: PSE&G basics
PSE&G delivers electricity in Linden, handles meters, and responds to outages. You can start, stop, or move service online or by phone. The start-service process asks for identity details and may require a deposit based on credit.
- Start service: submit your request through PSE&G’s start, stop or move service page.
- Deposits and returns: deposits can be required, accrue interest, and are returned after satisfactory payment history. See more in PSE&G’s guide to understanding your bill and deposits.
- Recommended timing: contact PSE&G 3 to 7 business days before move-in if no onsite work is needed. If meter work or inspections are likely, reach out earlier.
Outages and emergencies
Report outages or hazards using PSE&G’s tools and hotlines. For downed wires or gas odors, call immediately and follow safety instructions. Learn how to report issues on PSE&G’s outage and gas leaks page or call 1-800-436-PSEG.
Move-in checklist
- Confirm providers: verify who supplies water, sewer, and electric for your address.
- Gather documents: photo ID, service address, billing address, and contact phone. Be prepared to provide SSN or tax ID for credit checks if asked.
- Schedule reads and activations: request NJAW meter reads or installs and schedule PSE&G service start.
- Review recent bills: ask the seller or landlord for the latest water, sewer, and electric bills to confirm account numbers and any adjustments.
- Check for lead: use NJAW’s portal to review service line material and planned replacements.
- Verify sewer status: confirm any balances with LRSA and the City Tax Collector before closing.
Typical timelines and deposits
- Electric (PSE&G): same-day activation is possible when the meter is energized and no work is needed. If meter installs or upgrades are required, allow days to weeks.
- Water (NJAW): existing service can start from an actual meter read. New service or first-time meters require an application and scheduling.
- Sewer (LRSA): service is typically continuous. Focus on billing status, payment method, and any adjustment deadlines.
- Deposits: NJAW and PSE&G may require deposits depending on credit and payment history. PSE&G deposits accrue interest and may be refunded after a satisfactory payment period.
Energy supplier choice in New Jersey
You can choose a third-party electricity supplier for the supply portion of your bill while PSE&G continues to deliver power and handle emergencies. The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities explains options and protections on its residential consumer page.
Ready to make your move smooth and stress-free? If you want a simple pre-closing utility timeline or reminders tailored to your purchase, connect with Barbara Deleon Perez. Prefer Spanish? Hablamos español.
FAQs
How do I start water service with NJ American Water in Linden?
- Request turn-on online or by phone, provide your service and billing address, and schedule a meter read. For homes without prior service, submit a new-service installation request and plan for a technician visit.
Who handles sewer bills in Linden and how do I pay?
- LRSA administers sewer charges, and the City of Linden Tax Collector collects payments. Check your bill or contact the Tax Collector to confirm payment options and due dates.
What should I do if there’s a power outage or downed wire?
- Report outages using PSE&G’s tools or call 1-800-436-PSEG. Stay away from downed wires and follow emergency instructions.
Will I need a deposit to start utilities in Linden?
- Possibly. NJAW and PSE&G may require deposits based on credit and payment history. PSE&G deposits accrue interest and can be refunded after a period of on-time payments.
How can I check for a lead service line at a Linden home?
- Ask the seller or landlord and use NJAW’s public inventory portal. If listed as lead or unknown, expect outreach from the utility about replacement plans.
When should I contact PSE&G before my move-in date?
- Reach out 3 to 7 business days ahead for standard activations. If meter work, inspections, or upgrades are needed, contact them earlier to secure scheduling.
