Newberg Oregon Utility Guide: Everything Home Buyers Need to Know Before Moving
Last Updated: June 2026
One of the questions I hear from almost every buyer is:
“Who do I need to call to get my utilities turned on?”
After helping families buy homes throughout Newberg for years, I’ve learned that moving is stressful enough without trying to track down utility companies at the last minute. That’s why I put together this guide. Whether you’re relocating from another part of Oregon or moving here from out of state, this list should help you get settled a little faster.
One thing I always tell my clients is this: not every home in the Newberg area has the same utility providers. A home in downtown Newberg may have city water, sewer, natural gas, and fiber internet, while a property just a few miles outside town could have a private well, septic system, propane, and satellite internet. Understanding those differences before closing can help you avoid surprises.
Water, Sewer & Stormwater
If your home is located within the Newberg city limits, your water, sewer, and stormwater services are generally provided by the City of Newberg.
The City allows homeowners to establish service, pay bills online, and access account information through its utility billing department.
Website: https://www.newbergoregon.gov/government/departments/services_billing/index.php
My Tip: I recommend contacting the City a few days before closing so your water service is active when you receive the keys. If you’re buying outside the city limits, your home may be served by a private water company instead.
Don’t Overlook Your Backflow Prevention Device
During your home inspection, it’s a good idea to ask the inspector to identify whether the property has a backflow prevention device. While a standard home inspection typically does not include testing the backflow assembly, confirming its presence and condition can help you avoid unexpected expenses after closing. In Oregon, and especially Newberg and Yamhill County many water providers require backflow prevention assemblies to be tested annually by a certified tester to ensure they are protecting the public water supply from contamination.
I recommend scheduling a certified backflow test with One Way Backflow LLC. Regular testing helps ensure your system remains compliant, protects your family’s drinking water, and can identify minor issues before they become costly repairs.
Electricity
Most homes in Newberg receive electric service from Portland General Electric (PGE).
Website: https://portlandgeneral.com
If you’re already a PGE customer, transferring service to your new address is usually quick and easy.
Natural Gas
Many Newberg homes use natural gas for heating, fireplaces, water heaters, and cooking.
Natural gas service is typically provided by NW Natural.
Website: https://www.nwnatural.com
If your home is outside city limits, it may use propane instead of natural gas. During your inspection period, I always recommend confirming which fuel source the home uses.
Garbage & Recycling
Garbage, recycling, and yard debris service for most Newberg residents is provided by:
Waste Management (WM)
Website: https://www.wm.com
If you’re moving into a newly constructed home, don’t assume garbage service has already been established. A quick phone call before move-in day can save you from an overflowing garage the first week.
Internet Providers
Internet availability depends on your neighborhood.
The most common providers include:
- Xfinity
- Ziply Fiber
- Quantum Fiber (CenturyLink)
- Starlink (popular for rural properties)
Before purchasing a home, I recommend checking internet availability using the property’s address—especially if you work remotely or have multiple people streaming or gaming in the household.
Mail Service
You’ll want to forward your mail before moving.
United States Postal Service (USPS)
Website: https://www.usps.com/manage/forward.htm
I usually recommend submitting your mail forwarding request about a week before closing.
Backflow Testing
This is one utility-related service that many buyers have never heard of.
If your home has an underground irrigation system, there’s a good chance it also has a backflow prevention device. These devices protect Newberg’s drinking water supply by preventing contaminated irrigation water from flowing back into the public water system.
Many backflow devices are required to be tested annually by an Oregon-certified backflow tester.
The City of Newberg mails annual reminders when testing is due.
Useful Resources:
City of Newberg Backflow Testing Program
https://www.newbergoregon.gov/government/departments/public_works/water_treatment/backflow_testing_program.php
Oregon Certified Backflow Tester Directory
https://www.oregon.gov/oha/ph/healthyenvironments/drinkingwater/crossconnection/pages/publiclist.aspx
A local company that performs backflow testing is:
Valley Plumbing NW
My Tip: During your home inspection, ask the seller if the property has a backflow prevention device and request the most recent inspection report. It’s one of those small details that often gets overlooked until after closing.
John Knows Newberg
I’m John Laney I’ve lived, invested, and worked in Newberg for years, and one thing I’ve learned is that moving goes much smoother when you plan ahead.
Most buyers focus on the inspection, financing, and moving truck—which they should—but spending just a little time getting your utilities organized before closing makes those first few days in your new home much less stressful.
Whether you’re buying your first home, moving across town, or relocating to Oregon Wine Country, I’m always happy to help my clients navigate the details that make a move successful.
If you’re thinking about buying a home in Newberg or Dundee, I’d love the opportunity to help.
John Laney
John Knows Newberg
Frequently Asked Questions
Who provides water service in Newberg?
Most homes within the city limits receive water, sewer, and stormwater service through the City of Newberg. Homes outside city limits may be served by private water companies or private wells.
Who is the electric company in Newberg?
Most residential properties are served by Portland General Electric (PGE).
Does Newberg have natural gas?
Yes. Many homes receive natural gas service from NW Natural, although some rural properties use propane.
Do I need a backflow test?
If your home has a backflow prevention device connected to an irrigation system, annual testing may be required by the City of Newberg. Ask the seller whether the property has one and request the most recent inspection report.
What internet providers are available in Newberg?
Depending on your address, you may have access to Xfinity, Ziply Fiber, Quantum Fiber, or Starlink. Availability varies by neighborhood, so it’s always a good idea to verify service before purchasing a home.