Setting up utilities is one of the first steps to making this place feel like home. In this section, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about getting connected—whether it's setting up the internet, sorting out gas and electricity, or knowing when and where to pay your council tax. We've broken down each utility with clear instructions and tips to help you get started without any hassle. So grab a coffee, get comfy, and let’s make sure your home is fully powered, connected, and ready for you!
Great news! Your apartment is set up for internet speeds of up to 1 Gbps. Before you can get online, you'll need to create an account with an internet provider of your choice.
We recommend comparing providers using Compare the Market.
You are free to select an energy provider of your choice. To do this, you can compare different providers using a website like Uswitch, where you can explore options and select a plan that suits you.
If you haven’t already, you'll soon receive your inventory report, which will contain meter readings taken at the beginning of your tenancy. Provide these meter readings to your chosen electricity provider when setting up your account.
61 Old Compton Street is part of the City of Westminster local council. You'll need to set up an account with them and notify them of your move to begin paying council tax.
If you plan to watch live TV or use BBC iPlayer, you'll need to set up and pay for a TV licence for your address.
Not sure if you need a TV licence or not? Check this list of all TV services that require a TV licence.
Your water is provided by Thames Water. Set up an account with them below to manage and pay your water bills.
Electricity meter
You don’t have direct access to your electricity meter, as it’s in the communal areas of the building. Once you've chosen a utilities provider, they’ll take your meter readings remotely. For your first meter reading, check your inventory report.
Gas meter
Similarly, you don’t have direct access to your gas meter, as it’s located in the communal areas of the building. Your utilities provider will handle readings remotely. Refer to your inventory report for the initial reading.
Water meter
If your apartment has a water meter, it will be under the kitchen sink next to the inside stop valve. Otherwise, it may be outside. Thames Water collects readings annually, either in-person or electronically. Check with Thames Water if you're unsure.
Water valve
The inside stop valve is located under the kitchen sink. Use this to stop water flow when necessary.
Boiler
Your boiler is in the storage cupboard in your kitchen, near the window. Refer to the boiler’s instruction manual below to adjust settings.
Fuse box
Blown a fuse? No problem. The fuse box is in the hallway cupboard. Flip the switches as needed to restore power
Post box
Your post box is in the lobby near the building's front door, labelled with your apartment number. Don’t forget to check it regularly!
Kitchen appliance switches
Each kitchen appliance has its own switch, located in a cupboard near the cooker. Use these switches to save energy or ensure safety during extended absences.
In the event of a fire:
Parking on Old Compton Street and the surrounding area is controlled Monday - Saturday 8.30am - 6.30pm.
As a resident within the jurisdiction of the City of Westminster council, you'll be able to apply for a residents' parking permit if you have a car. Old Compton Street and the surrounding area are part of the "G1" controlled parking zone.
Apply for your City of Westminster parking account
If you or a visitor are just parking a car in the area temporarily, you can pay by the hour. Refer to on-street parking signs for instructions on how to do this. Make sure you're aware of any parking restrictions to avoid receiving a fine.
Residential rubbish is collected from Old Compton Street twice a day, every day.
Old Compton Street is a "bags off streets" area, so please place your waste outside, in the street, (not on the pavement) up to 30 minutes before the start of the collection period. Your non-recyclable waste collection times are as follows:
03:00 - 05 :00
17:00 - 19:00
Recycled waste is collected once per week from your doorstep on a Wednesday between 08:00 and 10:00
For more information about waste collection times Old Compton Street, use Westminster Council's online tool.
In this section, you'll find all the essential instructions and tips for using the appliances in your new home.
When you live with us, you get more than a beautiful home. Check out your complimentary perks below.
Submit maintenance requests, review useful documents and receive updates through the Residently app.
Need to talk to someone? Reach the right people with the contact details below.
Available 9:00am - 5:30pm, Monday - Friday
Available 9:00am - 5:30pm, Monday - Friday
