Complete Guide to Setting Up Water and Electricity Accounts for Singapore Companies

A Practical Guide to Help You Navigate the Utility Account Opening Process for Business Premises

In Singapore, whether it’s a corporate office, retail shop, or temporary construction site, water and electricity usage must comply with relevant regulations by setting up dedicated commercial utility accounts.

Many business clients, after leasing office space, often lack sufficient understanding of the account opening process, required documents, and key considerations. To help, Haohaoguo has compiled this detailed guide to assist you in smoothly completing the commercial utility account setup.

01. Confirm Premises Usage (Residential / Commercial)

Before applying for a utility account, first determine the purpose of the premises:

  • Residential Use (Domestic Use): The premises are solely for residential purposes with no commercial activities.

  • Commercial Use (Non-Domestic Use): The premises are used for trade, business, or professional activities.

Please declare the usage truthfully. False declarations violate the Public Utilities Act (Cap. 261).

02. Choose Supply Type (Permanent or Temporary)

Depending on your needs, utility supply can be categorized as:

  • Permanent Supply: For long-term use, including residential, commercial offices, retail stores, etc.

  • Temporary Supply: Applicable to:

    • Construction sites

    • Event stages

    • Temporary site offices

    • Temporary facilities like suspended cradles

03. Understand Deposit and Capacity Requirements

Both temporary and permanent supply applications require corresponding deposits.

Permanent Supply Deposit
Temporary Supply Deposit

04. How to Open an SP Utilities Account?

Businesses can submit applications via:

  • SP Utilities App (iOS or Android)

  • SP Group Website

  • In-person at SP Customer Service Centers

05. Required Documents for Company Utility Account Applications

If applying under a company name, prepare the following:

  • Completed application form (signed by an ACRA-registered director)

  • Latest ACRA BizFile

  • Proof of premises occupancy (e.g., tenancy agreement)

  • For electricity capacity exceeding 45kVA: Submit the Electrical Installation License (EIL) Confirmation Form

  • Deposit (varies by application type)

If the signatory is not a director, additionally provide:

  • Authorization letter (on company letterhead, stating representative’s name and NRIC number)

  • Copy of director’s NRIC (front and back)

06. How Long Until Utilities Are Activated?

Typically, after submitting complete documents and paying the deposit, utilities will be activated within 3 working days. However, if meters are not yet installed, the start date will depend on arrangements by your licensed electrician/plumber/gas technician.

For urgent same-day activation, you can apply for Express Turn-on (additional fees apply), excluding:

  • Electricity capacity exceeding 45kVA

  • Water meters larger than 25mm

  • Commercial gas requirements

  • Current third-party electricity retailers

07. How to Check Bills, Submit Meter Readings, and Avoid Estimated Bills?

Via the SP Utilities App or Utilities Portal, you can:

  • View and pay bills

  • Track usage history

  • Submit self-read meter readings

To avoid estimated bills, submit meter readings promptly via:

08. Accepted Payment Methods for Utilities

Payment options include:

  • eGIRO Auto-Debit: Apply via App/Portal, approved within 48 hours.

  • PayNow QR / Credit / Debit Card

  • AXS Machines

  • 7-11 Stores (limited accounts)

  • Bank ATMs (DBS/POSB/OCBC)

  • Online Bank Transfer

Late payments incur a $0.55 notification fee, followed by a 1% late charge if unpaid.

09. How Can Business Users Close Accounts? Key Notes?

The closure process resembles account opening:

  • Submit closure request via SP App / Website / Service Center

  • Provide company BizFile and signatory’s ID

  • If signatory is not a director, include an authorization letter

Post-Closure Notes:

  • Deposits offset final bills before refund.

  • GIRO auto-cancels after settlement.

  • For gas supply, City Energy charges separate termination/removal fees (see website).

Running a company in Singapore involves many details—utility accounts may seem minor but impact daily operations. Haohaoguo’s team can assist with commercial utility setups alongside office leasing, streamlining processes and saving time.

If you need office relocation, site selection, or utility account services, contact Haohaoguo for a one-stop corporate solution!

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