Tim Tsang · Independent Ambit Consultant · Texas

Guides for property managers and movers · Last reviewed 2026-10-23

Unit turnover: keeping the power side simple

Every move-out and move-in means an electricity change. Here's how Texas rules work at each step, plus a checklist your leasing team can use.

Move-out: the tenant's plan doesn't follow them

A Texas electricity contract covers one address. When a tenant moves out, they don't have to keep the contract at their next home, and the provider can't charge an early termination fee for the move if the tenant gives a forwarding address and, if asked, proof they've left.

Move-in: same day is possible, not promised

In Oncor's area, a priority move-in order is completed on the requested day if the unit has a working smart meter, the day is a business day, and Oncor gets the order by 5 p.m. Priority move-in carries a utility charge.

Orders placed after 5 p.m., or on a weekend or holiday, move to the next business day.

Deposits can hold up a move-in

If a provider asks a new tenant for a deposit, service can wait until that's settled. Many tenants qualify to skip one; the deposit guide on this site explains who.

Turnover checklist

• Tell every new tenant to set up power before move-in day, not on it.
• Give them the unit's service address exactly as it appears on utility records.
• Remind tenants who are leaving to give their provider a forwarding address.
• Ask tenants to place move-in orders before 5 p.m. on a business day.

About Ambit's plans

• Turning power on at a new address? If the place already has a working smart meter and the order goes in before 5 p.m. on a business day, service can usually be turned on that same day. Your utility sets the actual start date, so no one can promise a time of day.
• Ambit runs a soft credit check to see whether a deposit is needed, and a deposit can often be waived — for example with a letter of credit from your current provider, or ID showing you're 55 or older. If one is required, you can pay it in installments or within 30 days.

Moving someone in?

Look up plans for the new address on Ambit's site, or send your client to me and I'll help them pick a plan.

See plans for a new ZIP

Or email me: tim@energycostreview.com

Sources

1. 16 TAC §25.475, Texas rule on retail electric products and contracts (Cornell LII copy)
2. Oncor Tariff for Retail Delivery Service, section 6.1.4.1 (priority move-in)

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