If you are moving from the Triad to Nags Head, the first 30 days feel different than an inland move. Barrier islands run on coastal timelines, storm seasons, and layered permits. This guide walks you through utilities, approvals, and simple steps that keep your transition smooth.
Start your Triad-to-OBX move right
You want the beach lifestyle without surprise costs or delays. On the Outer Banks, you will handle town water setup, power with the regional utility, and sometimes septic care instead of sewer. You may also need coastal permits for even small projects. The steps below focus on what matters most in the first month so you settle in with confidence.
Map your pre- and post-closing timeline
60–30 days before closing
- Confirm power, water, and internet options by address. For Nags Head, electricity runs through Dominion Energy. Call early to plan service activation and ask about storm prep tools like outage alerts and surge protection options Dominion Energy guidance.
- Check water service. Inside Nags Head town limits, set up a new owner account with the Town. The town outlines application steps and deposit rules for new accounts Town of Nags Head water setup. If the property is outside town service, you may work with the Dare County Water Department Dare County Water.
- Identify sewer or septic. Many OBX homes use on-site wastewater. If you plan upgrades, learn the county’s permit process so you do not delay future work Dare County septic permits.
- Price internet and TV. Availability and speeds vary by address. Spectrum is common across Nags Head. Schedule installs early for smooth move-in Spectrum Nags Head.
- Start flood and wind insurance quotes. Coastal homes often need separate wind and flood policies. The Coastal Property Insurance Pool is a last-resort option if you cannot find private coverage NC Coastal Property Insurance Pool.
- Ask the town about flood zone and elevation details for your parcel. This helps your lender and insurance planning and informs any future project designs Town flood resources and Dare County flood maps.
Two weeks out: confirmations and deposits
- Set firm start dates for electricity and water. Confirm account names match your deed for water accounts in Nags Head Town new water accounts.
- Book internet installation and any security or smart-home setups that need access.
- If the home has a septic system, schedule a certified inspection if you want condition checks before closing. North Carolina requires state-certified onsite wastewater inspectors for real estate inspections NCOWCICB certified list.
- Review flood, wind, and homeowners policy effective dates so coverage is in place at closing. Mortgage-backed loans in FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas usually require flood insurance NFIP policy framework.
Closing week: utilities and access
- Confirm key exchange or lockbox details for utility techs.
- Turn on power and water on closing day if possible. Coastal homes benefit from quick dehumidifier and HVAC use to manage humidity.
- Walk the property for storm-readiness: check shutters, gate latches, outdoor lighting, and GFCI outlets.
First 30 days in your home
- Set up trash and recycling. Nags Head provides municipal trash collection and subscription curbside recycling through TFC Recycling. Review schedules and sign up if needed Town sanitation and recycling and recycling program.
- Create a storm kit and enroll in outage alerts through your power provider Dominion Energy support.
- If you plan any renovations, call the town to learn what permits are required and how flood rules and coastal standards apply to your address Permitting and inspections overview.
Outer Banks utilities setup checklist
Power, water/sewer, and septic basics
- Electricity: Dominion Energy serves Nags Head. Start service and set up alerts ahead of move-in. Storm season can bring outages, so consider surge protection and review generator rules before installing Dominion Energy customer support.
- Water: Inside town limits, apply for a new owner account with Nags Head. The application outlines ID, deed-name matching, and deposit steps Town water accounts. In other OBX areas, water is handled by Dare County Water Dare County Water.
- Sewer versus septic: Many homes use on-site wastewater. If you plan additions or a pool, the county’s permit steps include a site evaluation, improvement permit, construction authorization, and an operations permit. Start early to avoid delays Dare septic permits.
Internet, TV, and cell coverage
- Internet and TV: Spectrum is widely available in Nags Head. Speeds vary by address, so pre-schedule your install. If wired options are limited, evaluate backup choices like satellite or fixed wireless for redundancy Spectrum availability.
- Cell: Coverage can fluctuate during peak seasons and in heavy weather. Test signal in key spots like your office, kitchen, and porch.
Trash, recycling, and bulk pickup
- Trash collection is handled by the Town on a set schedule. Seasonal volume can spike during summer or rental turnovers. Review calendar details and arrange cart needs early Town sanitation.
- Curbside recycling is subscription-based in Nags Head. If you want recycling service, enroll after closing Town recycling.
- HOAs and condo associations may have separate pickup rules and enclosure requirements. Check your community handbook.
Propane, fuel oil, and gas service
- Natural gas is limited on the barrier islands. Many homes use electric heat pumps plus propane for stoves, fireplaces, or backup heat. Decide whether you will lease or own a propane tank and set auto-fill or will-call based on usage North Carolina natural gas overview.
- If a buried tank is present, ask for documentation and schedule a safety check before heavy use.
Permits and approvals you may need
Renovation, repair, and coastal rules
On the OBX, many common projects need permits. Decks, siding, windows, pools, dune walkovers, and additions usually require town approvals. Coastal areas follow North Carolina’s Coastal Area Management Act for work near the ocean or estuarine shorelines. Minor CAMA permits are common for single-family projects and are reviewed on an expedited timeline once your application is complete CAMA permit types and Town permitting overview. For any beachfront or dune work, confirm rules first to avoid violations Town CAMA guidance.
Short-term rental registrations and taxes
If you plan to offer short-term rentals, align early on occupancy limits, safety items like smoke and CO alarms, and tax collection setup. Many owners work with a property manager to meet booking, safety, and compliance standards. Confirm HOA or condo rules before marketing the home.
Beach access, parking, and vehicle permits
Beach parking and access can be seasonal and may require permits. If you plan to drive on the beach in nearby towns that allow it, check rules and timing windows well ahead of your trip. Keep proof of residency and vehicle documents handy when applying.
Surveys, elevation data, and floodplain docs
Updated surveys and elevation certificates help you plan improvements and insurance. Dare County flood maps took effect in 2020. Towns like Nags Head also use a local elevation standard that can be higher than the FEMA minimum, which affects how high you must build or place equipment. Verify your parcel’s flood zone and any local elevation standard before design work Dare County flood maps and Town flood info.
Insurance and coastal readiness essentials
Homeowners, wind/hail, and flood coverage
- Policies: Many coastal owners carry a standard homeowners policy, a separate wind or wind and hail policy, and flood insurance. Align effective dates with closing so you never have a gap NC Coastal Property Insurance Pool and NFIP policy basics.
- Documents: Your insurer may ask for an elevation certificate, roof age, and flood zone details. Request these early from the seller or the town.
Storm prep, re-entry, and alert systems
- Outages: Enroll in utility alerts and bookmark outage maps. Keep flashlights, batteries, and a small power bank on hand Dominion Energy support.
- Re-entry: After storms, local authorities control access. Store proof of ownership in a cloud folder and share with trusted contacts in case you are off-island.
- Home kit: Stock tarps, contractor bags, duct tape, and basic tools. Schedule a roof and gutter check before peak season.
Maintenance rhythms for salt, sand, and humidity
- HVAC: Change filters often, service twice a year, and use a dehumidifier during shoulder seasons.
- Exterior: Rinse salt spray from windows and railings, lubricate locks and hinges, and clean dryer vents to fight corrosion and sand.
- Decks and doors: Inspect fasteners and seals. Salt air speeds up wear, so set recurring maintenance reminders.
Registrations and everyday logistics
Address changes, DMV, and voter updates
Update your address with banks, insurers, and subscriptions. If you are new to the state or changing your NC address, handle license and registration updates within state timelines NC DMV moving guidance.
Schools, healthcare, and pet requirements
Gather school records, immunizations, and transfer documents early. Book primary care and dental visits before peak summer. Check pet rules for beach access and rabies tags, and find the nearest after-hours vet.
HOA/COA onboarding and local contacts
Request your community’s handbook, gate codes, parking passes, and vendor lists. Add key local numbers to your phone, including water billing, property services, and emergency maintenance.
Get a concierge partner for your move
Moving from the Triad to the OBX is easier with a local guide who knows both sides of the journey. If you want help timing utilities, lining up inspectors, or fast-tracking permits and vendors, connect with Cathy Cagno at Local to Coastal Realty. Request a Free Consultation and get a custom timeline, provider introductions, and a smooth inland-to-coast plan from contract to keys.
FAQs
Who handles electricity in Nags Head and how soon should I schedule service?
- Dominion Energy serves Nags Head. Contact them 2 to 3 weeks before closing to set start dates and enroll in outage alerts Dominion Energy customer support.
How do I set up water service as a new owner in Nags Head?
- Apply through the Town’s New Owner Water Service process. Names must match the deed and a deposit may be required Town new water accounts.
My home uses a septic system. What should I know before renovations?
- Dare County requires permits for on-site wastewater changes. The process includes site evaluation and approvals before construction. Use a state-certified inspector for real estate inspections Dare septic permits and NCOWCICB certified list.
When do I need coastal permits like CAMA?
- Work near the ocean or estuaries often needs a CAMA permit. Many single-family projects use a minor permit that is reviewed on an expedited timeframe after a complete application CAMA permit types and Town permitting overview.
Do I need flood insurance on the OBX?
- If your home is in a FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area and you have a federally backed mortgage, flood insurance is usually required. Many owners outside mapped zones still carry policies due to storm surge risk NFIP policy framework.
Who provides trash and recycling in Nags Head?
- The Town provides trash collection. Curbside recycling is subscription-based through TFC Recycling. Check schedules and sign up after closing Town sanitation and recycling.
Is natural gas available on the Outer Banks?
- Natural gas is limited on barrier islands. Many homes rely on electric systems and propane for appliances or backup heat. Decide on tank leasing versus ownership and set delivery preferences NC natural gas overview.
What documents help me plan projects and insurance?
- Order a current survey, elevation certificate, and flood zone confirmation. Dare County maps took effect in 2020 and towns may use local elevation standards above FEMA minimums Dare flood maps and Town flood info.
I am changing my address. What are my DMV steps?
- Update your license and vehicle registration within state timelines. Start within the first 60 days of residency updates NC DMV moving.
