Moving to Lakeside or Somers and wondering how to get the lights on, Wi‑Fi connected, and snow cleared before you arrive? You’re not alone. Rural lakeside living in 59922 comes with a few extra steps, especially if you’re coordinating from out of state. This guide gives you clear, address‑specific checklists to set up utilities and essential services with fewer surprises. Let’s dive in.
Start with address verification
Before you call any provider, confirm your official street address and 911 registration. In rural areas, accurate addressing ensures emergency responders and delivery drivers can find your home. Make sure your driveway and house numbers match county records and are clearly visible from the road.
If you’re buying remotely, ask the seller or your agent to verify which post office serves the property and whether the address receives rural route delivery or relies on a PO Box.
Electricity and heating fuel
Verify your provider
Electric service in Flathead County is typically provided by an investor‑owned utility or a rural cooperative. Many addresses in and around Lakeside/Somers are served by Flathead Electric Cooperative, while other parts of Montana use providers such as NorthWestern Energy. Always confirm by your exact street address. Some rural homes rely on propane for heating, water heating, or cooking where natural gas lines are not present.
Set up your account
- Ask the seller for provider names, account numbers, recent bills, and the meter location.
- Decide on an account transfer vs a new account. Have a photo ID and proof of ownership or lease ready. Some utilities may run a credit check or request a deposit.
- At closing, record meter readings. This helps avoid billing disputes.
Propane checklist
- Identify the current supplier and whether the tank is owned or leased.
- Confirm tank size, current level, and delivery method (automatic vs will‑call).
- If low, schedule a first fill to coincide with move‑in. Winter access and steep drives may affect delivery timing.
Common pitfalls
- New service drops or line extensions can require permits, easements, and multi‑week scheduling.
- Out‑of‑state customers may face deposit requirements. Ask early so you can plan.
Internet, phone, and TV
Check service at your address
Coverage can change block by block. Options may include cable or fiber, DSL or fiber through providers like CenturyLink/Lumen, fixed wireless from local ISPs, satellite services such as Viasat or HughesNet, and cellular‑based internet from Verizon, AT&T, or T‑Mobile. Ask the seller who they use and request a recent speed test screenshot.
Installation and backups
- Schedule wired installs well in advance, especially in winter or spring.
- If you work remotely, line up a temporary backup like a cellular hotspot or satellite while you wait for wired service.
- Confirm inside wiring and outlets for your desired modem or router placement.
Equipment and home wiring
- Clarify whether you are renting the modem/router or providing your own.
- Check that existing coax or Ethernet runs support your setup, particularly in larger or multi‑level homes.
If options are limited
- Fixed wireless often requires line‑of‑sight; ask the installer to verify on site.
- Speeds vary by exact location. Talk with neighbors about their real‑world experience.
Refuse and recycling
Curbside vs transfer station
Some addresses have private haulers for curbside pickup. Others use county transfer stations. Pickup options and routes can shift across lakeshore neighborhoods, and very remote roads may not be serviceable for all trucks.
Set up service
- Ask the county which haulers or transfer stations serve your address.
- If curbside is available, confirm pickup day, service frequency, container sizes, holiday schedules, and rates.
- Arrange container delivery and note where to place bins for safe, reliable pickup.
Tips for remote or steep drives
- Some haulers require cans at a roadside collection point.
- Snow and ice can disrupt service. Plan a pull‑out area where trucks can safely stop.
Mail and parcel delivery
USPS service options
Rural addresses may receive curbside or rural route delivery. Many owners choose a PO Box at the nearest post office for reliability, especially if the home is seasonal. Confirm which office serves your address in Somers, Lakeside, Bigfork, or Kalispell.
Change‑of‑address timing
- Submit a USPS Change‑of‑Address ahead of your move and choose the start date.
- Expect short processing lead times and use a PO Box if you need secure mail while you’re in transition.
Package strategies for rural addresses
- Create accounts with major carriers to set delivery preferences.
- Add delivery notes such as gate codes and cross‑streets.
- For hard‑to‑reach locations or high‑value items, consider pickup at authorized carrier locations.
Snow removal and road access
Who plows what
State highways like U.S. 93 are cleared by the Montana Department of Transportation. County roads are handled by Flathead County. Private drives and HOA‑maintained roads are typically the homeowner’s responsibility through a contractor.
Set up driveway service
- Book a local snow‑removal provider before winter. Demand spikes during heavy snow periods.
- Provide gate instructions and confirm equipment access for steep or narrow drives.
- Clarify service triggers, visit frequency, and emergency call‑out policies.
Emergency access checklist
- Confirm your 911 address is registered and visible at the road.
- Keep contacts for the sheriff, local fire department, and ambulance services.
- Some insurers expect accessible egress in winter. Keep paths and entries clear.
Seasonal and property systems
Septic basics
Many lakeshore homes use septic systems. Ask the seller for system records and permits. Plan for an inspection and set a pumping schedule, typically every 3 to 5 years depending on use.
Well and water quality
If your home is on a private well, test for coliform bacteria, nitrate, and any local concerns when you take occupancy and then seasonally. Keep service records for pumps and pressure systems.
Chimneys and wood heat
Schedule a chimney sweep and inspection before first use of a fireplace or woodstove. If you burn wood, line up seasoned firewood delivery and confirm safe drop‑off access.
Pest and shoreline notes
Lakeside living can bring seasonal mosquitoes and midges. Local pest control options and mitigation services are common. For lakeside parcels, confirm shoreline setbacks and any septic permit details through county records during due diligence.
Winter move tips
Book early
Installers and specialty contractors often have multi‑week lead times in fall and winter. Get on their calendars as soon as you go under contract.
Access for crews
Heavy snow and freeze‑thaw cycles can slow propane deliveries and utility work. Share gate codes, clear driveways, and mark underground items where appropriate.
Internet for remote work
If you must be online on day one, arrange a cellular hotspot plan or satellite as a temporary bridge until wired service is installed.
60‑30‑7‑1‑after checklist
- Ask the seller for utility contacts, recent bills, and provider names.
- Verify your 911 address and confirm mail delivery method or PO Box.
- Check internet availability by exact address and book installation.
- Identify propane, septic, well, and chimney vendors; request quotes.
- Submit USPS Change‑of‑Address to align with your move date.
- Open or transfer your electric account; schedule meter read for closing.
- Set up trash service or plan transfer station use; order containers if needed.
- Arrange snow removal and landscaping based on season.
- Share gate codes and access notes with vendors; confirm propane fill if needed.
- Photograph meter readings and equipment locations during walkthrough.
- Test water quality, schedule septic service if due, and book chimney sweep.
- Monitor first bills and internet speeds; follow up with providers as needed.
How Lacy helps
Relocating to a rural lakeside community is smoother when you have a local guide. With deep Flathead Valley roots and a title background, Lacy helps you collect seller‑provided utility contacts, verify address and service details, and coordinate key appointments when you cannot be here in person. You get clear timelines, reliable referrals, and fewer surprises at closing.
Ready to plan your move to Lakeside or Somers? Reach out to Lacy Richter for personalized relocation guidance and local insight.
FAQs
Who provides electricity for a Lakeside/Somers home?
- It depends on your exact address. Some areas are served by a rural electric cooperative and others by an investor‑owned utility. Ask the seller and confirm with the provider by your street address.
How reliable is internet service in 59922?
- Reliability varies by location. Where wired options are limited, fixed wireless, satellite, or cellular‑based internet are common alternatives. Always verify delivered speeds at your property.
Will FedEx and UPS deliver to rural lakeshore addresses?
- Major carriers often deliver but may require roadside drop‑off or pickup at a nearby hub for hard‑to‑access properties. Many owners use a PO Box for reliable mail.
Who plows my road and driveway in winter?
- The state plows highways and the county plows county roads. Driveways and private or HOA roads are typically handled by the homeowner through a contracted snow‑removal service.
What inspections should I order before closing on a rural home?
- Plan for a general home inspection, septic inspection if applicable, and well water testing. For lakeside parcels, also review shoreline setback and septic permits through county records.
Are deposits or credit checks required to start utilities?
- Often yes. Utilities and internet providers may require a deposit or credit check, especially for out‑of‑state customers. Ask about requirements when you open the account.
