Types

• Do some research online and get in touch with your neighbors to compile a list of companies that offer the necessary services in your area. In talking with your neighbors, you may come across some local companies that are worth looking into, especially when you have a choice of providers. Once you have a list of providers, keep a chart to easily compare your findings.
  
  

Services

• Provider's services often differ from one another. Many electric companies offer an energy audit where they will run a test on your home to see what is consuming the most electricity in your home and to provide you with ideas on how to save money. Other offerings may include having a budget plan and/or package deals that allow you to combine services like Internet, cable and phone for a discounted rate.
  
  

Fees

• Get details about fees. Find out about yearly fees, security deposits, cancellation fees, and late payment fees. Also, find out if there is an introductory period, how long it lasts and how much you can expect your bill to be after the introductory period. For electric companies, also be sure to ask about their service rates.
  
  

Customer Service

• While you are collecting the information listed above, keep track of the experiences you encounter with their customer service departments. Specifically, note the length of their hold times, how easy it was to get in touch with someone, whether they were friendly and helpful and if provided alternate ways to get in touch with someone.