After registering a flat, the sale deed does not automatically guarantee that every utility account is in the purchaser's name. In Kolkata and adjoining areas, an electricity connection may be served by **CESC** or **WBSEDCL**, depending on the address. The transfer procedure, supporting evidence and security-deposit treatment can differ. Organising this soon after possession helps avoid confusion over bills and previous dues.
Identify the actual electricity provider
Look at the latest electricity bill and meter identification details. Confirm the consumer number, registered name, sanctioned load, tariff category and billing address. Do not assume the distribution company solely from the locality name. For a gated residential project, ask whether the apartment has an individual distribution-company meter, a submeter or a bulk-supply arrangement managed by the association. This affects who can directly request a change.
CESC: use the official name-change service
CESC publishes an online name-transfer process for changes in ownership, tenancy or occupancy. Its guidance requests the existing customer ID and supporting identification, and it distinguishes cases where the registered consumer is alive or deceased. The standard online route applies when the connected load remains unchanged; other situations may require offline interaction. Read the current CESC instructions rather than uploading documents to third-party sites claiming to expedite approvals.
WBSEDCL: verify ownership-change formalities
WBSEDCL provides an official form for change of name or ownership. West Bengal has also published an e-registration-linked process for eligible transactions, but purchasers should confirm whether their individual case has been triggered and whether additional formalities remain. Follow the actual communication and status from WBSEDCL instead of assuming that deed registration alone completes the transfer. If a connection is not yet active, a new-supply application may be needed rather than a name change.
Read the bill and record meter readings
At handover, photograph the meter reading and meter number with permission. Request recent bills, payment receipts and written disclosure of any arrears or disconnection issues. Agree in writing with the seller on the settlement of consumption before and after possession. If the association bills common power separately, obtain its latest statement too. An electricity account change is not a substitute for checking the legal title to the apartment.
