Essential Services for New Homeowners Moving to Chilliwack

Moving to a new city means finding new services. This guide lists the essential services you need to set up in Chilliwack. It covers utilities, home maintenance, and local resources.

Getting these services in order will help you settle in faster. We will point you to the right providers and show you how to find local help.

Setting Up Your Home: Utilities and Government Services

Start here. You need these services to live comfortably in your new home.

Electricity and Natural Gas

Most homes in Chilliwack get electricity from BC Hydro. You need to start an account with them. You can do this online or by phone. For natural gas, the main provider is FortisBC. Contact them to connect service or transfer an existing account. Do this a few weeks before you move.

Water and Waste

The City of Chilliwack provides water, sewer, and garbage collection. You must set up an account with the city. This often includes signing up for a recycling and organics bin. Check the city website for pickup schedules in your neighborhood.

Home Insurance and Property Tax

Get home insurance right away. It is required by your mortgage lender and protects your investment. You can shop around with different providers. Property taxes are paid to the City of Chilliwack. Your first bill may come from the previous owner’s account. Contact the city’s finance department to get the bill in your name.

Your Next Step: For local advisors, browse our directory of Chilliwack businesses in the Financial & Insurance Services category.

Home Maintenance and Improvement Services

Things will need fixing or improving. Finding trusted local professionals is key.

Finding a Good General Contractor

For major projects like renovations, you need a reliable contractor. Look for licensed and insured professionals. Ask for references from past clients in Chilliwack. Get multiple detailed quotes before starting any work.

Essential Tradespeople

Some trades are good to know early on. These include:

• Plumber: For leaks, clogs, or fixture installation.
• Electrician: For wiring issues, panel upgrades, or installing new lights.
• HVAC Technician: For furnace servicing, air conditioning, or duct cleaning.
• Roofer: For inspections, repairs, or full replacements.

Lawn and Garden Care

If you have a yard, you might need help. Local services include landscaping, lawn mowing, tree trimming, and seasonal clean-up. Some people hire regular maintenance, while others call for one-time projects.

Getting to Know Your New Community

Once your home is running, explore what Chilliwack offers. This helps you feel settled.

Shopping for Groceries and Essentials

Chilliwack has major supermarkets and local specialty stores. You will find everything from big-chain groceries to local butchers and farmers’ markets. The Chilliwack Farmers’ Market is a popular spot for fresh local food.

Healthcare Services

Registering for healthcare is important. Find a family doctor or a walk-in clinic. Chilliwack Community Health Centre and Cascade Clinic are major centers. Also, locate your nearest pharmacy for prescriptions.

Getting Around Town

Learn the main roads. The Trans-Canada Highway (Hwy 1) runs through the area. Chilliwack Transit System provides local bus routes. If you commute, check the schedules for the Fraser Valley Express (FVE) bus to other cities.

Your Next Step: Discover local favorites. Use our guide to find the best restaurants in Chilliwack and popular spots for things to do in Chilliwack.

Checklist for Your First Month in Chilliwack

Use this list to track important tasks.

Task	Details	Completed
Start Electricity Account	Contact BC Hydro.	[ ]
Start Natural Gas Account	Contact FortisBC (if applicable).	[ ]
Set Up City Utilities	Contact City of Chilliwack for water/sewer/garbage.	[ ]
Register for Property Tax	Contact City of Chilliwack Finance Department.	[ ]
Purchase Home Insurance	Get quotes from several providers.	[ ]
Find Family Doctor/Dentist	Search for clinics accepting new patients.	[ ]
Update Driver’s License/ID	Visit ICBC/Service BC with new address.	[ ]
Register for Provincial Health (MSP)	Update address online or by mail.	[ ]
Explore Local Schools	If needed, contact School District 33.	[ ]
Find Key Tradespeople	Identify a plumber, electrician, etc.	[ ]
Locate Nearest Hospital/Clinic	Note address of Chilliwack General Hospital.	[ ]
Discover Shopping Areas	Find grocery stores and hardware stores.	[ ]

Frequently Asked Questions for New Residents

How do I find a family doctor in Chilliwack?

It can be challenging. Start by calling local clinics to ask if they are accepting new patients. You can also use the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC “Find a Physician” tool. Registering with a walk-in clinic can provide temporary care.

Where do I get a BC driver’s license or update my address?

Visit an ICBC/Service BC office. You must get a BC license within 90 days of moving. Take your current license, proof of new address, and other identification. You can update your vehicle insurance and registration at the same time.

What is a good way to meet people in Chilliwack?

Join local activities. Check community centers for sports leagues, fitness classes, or art workshops. Volunteering is another good option. Look at the Chilliwack Connect directory for community groups and local events to start.

Are there job resources for new residents?

Yes. The WorkBC Centre in Chilliwack offers free employment services. For current openings, browse the jobs in the Chilliwack section right here on Chilliwack Connect to see who is hiring locally.

Final Steps to Feeling at Home

Setting up services is the first part of moving. The next part is becoming part of the community. Explore local parks, try a new restaurant, and find hobbies you enjoy.

Chilliwack Connect is built to help you with this. It is your local directory to find trusted Chilliwack businesses, from contractors to coffee shops. Use it to support the local economy and connect with your new neighbors.

Welcome to Chilliwack.