Whether you are renting an apartment or living in a detached house or duplex, you will need to decide between a landline telephone or a cell phone, and perhaps internet services and cable television.
In comparing television, telephone and internet service providers, ensure to ask about all fees, cost of local and long distance calls, and all details of the contract, if one is required. A list of these service providers is below. Many companies offer lower prices for customers who sign up for more than one service, called a “bundle”.
You may have to complete a credit application, provide proof of employment, and/or pay a deposit. Deposits should be refunded when you cancel your service, so long as all bills have been paid on time and all contractual obligations have been met.
Television
Anyone who has a television can access a few networks free of charge. Beyond these, viewers can subscribe to many movie, sports, music and entertainment channels through cable or satellite TV. Both are provided at a monthly rate.
Telephones
You can choose either traditional, digital or cellular telephone service. You can purchase your telephone service online or go to a service location, which you should be able to find on the company websites. For cellular telephones, you can choose to sign a contract, which may cost less, or purchase minutes as you need them (called “Pay As You Go”). If you have a cell phone from home, you should check with cellular service providers to see if it can be activated in Canada.
Long Distance
Long distance charges can add up very quickly, leaving you with a large bill to pay at the end of the month. Long distance calls are normally billed as extra to the monthly telephone service fee. However, some companies offer monthly plans that include some long distance calls.
Internet
Both dial-up and high-speed service is available from many service providers in Edmonton.