ComEd (Commonwealth Edison)
Primary electricity provider for Chicago and Northern Illinois.
Setup tip: Open an account online or by phone up to 60 days before your move-in date.
Resident Resources
Your essential resident guide.
Use this hub to plan utility setup, locate important emergency contacts, and find local assistance programs.
Move-in essentials
Utility setup, explained.
Start with the service providers below, then confirm the responsibilities listed in your lease. Availability and billing can vary by building and municipality.
01
Electricity
Start service before move-in to make your first day at home seamless.
02
Natural Gas
Service territory varies between Chicago and surrounding suburbs.
Peoples Gas (Chicago city limits)
Natural gas provider for Chicago city limits.
Setup tip: Register online about 14 days before your move-in date.
Nicor Gas (Suburbs)
Natural gas provider for suburbs — Evanston, Oak Park, and surrounding municipalities.
If your address is outside Chicago city limits, you may be in Nicor Gas territory. Verify at nicorgas.com.
03
Water & Sewer
Check your lease to confirm whether water or sewer is part of your rent.
City of Chicago — Department of Water Management
Water and sewer service for Chicago city residents.
In most Chicago apartment buildings, the landlord pays the water bill. Check your lease for 'Water/Sewer' responsibility.
Suburban Water Service
Water service for residents outside Chicago city limits.
Water service is managed by your local city or village utility department. Contact your municipal city hall.
04
Internet & Cable
Availability can vary by address and some buildings may have service agreements.
Xfinity
Chicago's largest internet and cable provider.
AT&T
Fiber and DSL internet service.
Astound Broadband (formerly RCN)
Available in select Chicago neighborhoods.
Availability varies by neighborhood. Some buildings have exclusive service contracts. Schedule installation 2–4 weeks in advance.
05
Trash & Recycling
Pickup schedules and recycling guidelines depend on your municipality.
City of Chicago — Department of Streets & Sanitation
Trash and blue cart recycling for Chicago city residents.
Blue cart recycling is provided by the city. Check the schedule at the link above.
Suburban Waste Collection
Waste collection for residents outside Chicago city limits.
Waste collection varies by municipality. Contact your local village or city hall for pickup schedules and recycling programs.
Keep close at hand
Emergency services
For any immediate life-safety emergency, call 911 first. This quick-reference list is here when you need it most.
Emergency
911
Police, fire, or immediate life-safety emergency
City Services (non-emergency)
311Chicago city service requests and information
Poison Control
1-800-222-1222
24/7 exposure and poisoning support
Gas Leak (Peoples Gas)
1-866-556-6002
If you smell gas, leave the area and call
Community support
Utility & rental assistance
The programs below may help eligible residents manage utility costs or rental hardship. Availability, funding, and eligibility are determined by each program.
CEDA — Community & Economic Development Association
LIHEAP utility bill assistance. Free programs to help offset rising utility costs. Income-based eligibility.
City of Chicago — Utility Billing Relief (UBR)
50% reduction of water rate, sewer rate, and water-sewer tax for eligible homeowners. Also offers complete debt forgiveness on past-due City utility accounts.
Search 'Utility Billing Relief' at chicago.gov.
Illinois Rental Payment Program
For tenants behind on rent due to financial hardship. Check current availability and eligibility requirements.
Need help with your rental?
For routine questions, review the resident FAQ or contact our support team. For maintenance, submit a request directly.
Get Started
Questions About Your Rental? We're Here to Help.
Our resident support team is available Monday–Friday 9am–5pm. For maintenance emergencies, we're available 24/7.
Or call: (312) 847-4414