When planning to relocate a park model home, most people focus on transportation—how it will be lifted, what the route looks like, or whether permits are needed. But just as important, and often more complicated, is what happens to the utilities. Disconnecting and reconnecting power, water, sewer, and gas safely and correctly is essential to avoid damage, delays, and unexpected costs. At Outback Transport LLC, we work closely with homeowners and utility professionals to ensure park model moves are well-coordinated from start to finish—utilities included.
Your Park Model Is Likely Tied into Multiple Systems
A Closer Look at What’s Connected
Most park models are built to be used like permanent homes, and that includes full utility service. Whether your park model is located on a rural lot or inside an RV park, it’s probably connected to:
- Electric power—direct wired or through a plug-in pedestal
- Fresh water supply—from a municipal source, well, or shared park line
- Wastewater connection—city sewer, septic, or holding tank
- Fuel—typically propane, sometimes natural gas if the area has service
Each of these needs to be professionally shut down, capped, and cleared before we can begin loading the structure for transport.
No Two Hookups Are the Same
The type of property your park model is currently on—and the location it’s going to—determines how utility disconnection and reconnection must be handled. For example, a park model sitting on leased land in an RV park might use above-ground hookups, while a cabin-style unit installed on a private property may have buried water lines and hard-plumbed sewer connections. Knowing what you’re working with early on will help you avoid delays.
How to Handle Disconnection Before Transport
Leave It to the Experts
Each utility should be disconnected by a licensed professional. Not only does this ensure safety, but it also protects you from code violations and liability issues. Here’s what typically needs to happen:
- Electric: An electrician disconnects the supply at the main source or meter and ensures the panel is safe for transport.
- Water/Sewer: A plumber removes and caps off lines properly so there’s no leakage or damage to pipes in transit.
- Propane/Natural Gas: A certified gas technician should handle line bleeding and tank disconnection. Propane tanks are generally transported separately.
Trying to do this work yourself can result in serious risks—especially with fuel and power systems. We strongly recommend scheduling licensed pros well before your move date.
Coordination Matters
Once your transport date is set, all utility services should be scheduled for disconnection at least a few days ahead. In many cases, utility companies or park managers require advance notice, especially if inspections or access permissions are needed.
Keep in mind:
- Some providers charge disconnection fees
- Parks or neighborhoods may have specific removal windows or restrictions
- Frozen lines, stormy weather, or soft ground can delay safe disconnection
A clear timeline is crucial, and we’re happy to assist in making sure all parties are aligned before we arrive to load the structure.
What Happens Once the Park Model Reaches Its New Site
Reconnection Isn’t Always Plug-and-Play
After the move, your park model will need to be reconnected to utilities at its new location—but don’t assume everything will work the same way. Differences in terrain, building codes, or utility availability can lead to additional work.
For example:
- Your new lot may not have a 50-amp electrical service panel
- There might be no direct propane hookup nearby
- The new water source could require filtration or pressure regulation
- Septic access might require new trenching or permits
You may also need to coordinate with the county or a licensed contractor to pass inspection before services can be fully reconnected.
Building Codes and Permits Vary
If your park model is crossing into a different county—or especially if it’s being relocated across state lines—there may be differences in what’s required for legal utility connections. Some jurisdictions require park models to meet mobile home or manufactured home standards if they’re going to be used long-term on private land.
Be prepared for:
- Electrical code variations, including grounding requirements
- Plumbing setup differences, such as frost-depth pipe placement
- Local zoning that regulates where park models can be connected at all
Getting familiar with local rules before delivery can save time and prevent frustrating rework.
Don’t Let Utility Issues Delay the Move
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
We’ve seen projects held up because a utility disconnect wasn’t scheduled on time, or because a property owner didn’t realize a gas line had to be professionally capped. In other cases, we’ve encountered surprise obstacles like decks covering access to plumbing or electrical panels hidden behind additions.
You can avoid these problems by:
- Confirming who will handle each utility service
- Clearing access to connection points before the move
- Double-checking that permits or approvals are secured, if needed
A good move is all about preparation—and utility coordination is one of the most important parts.
How We Support You at Outback Transport
While we don’t physically disconnect utilities, we help homeowners stay organized through the entire process. We’ll walk you through the expected requirements and help create a timeline, so you know when each piece needs to happen. If we arrive and utilities aren’t safely disconnected, we can’t move the structure—so working together to stay on schedule is essential.
We’re also happy to provide referrals to local electricians, plumbers, or propane companies who understand the specific demands of park model relocation.
Utilities Are the Backbone of a Successful Move
Your park model’s transport hinges on more than just the drive. Safe, code-compliant utility disconnection and reconnection are critical to protecting your structure—and getting your home up and running again as soon as it arrives. At Outback Transport, we treat every part of the process with care, including making sure utility logistics are handled smoothly.
If you have a move coming up and aren’t sure where to begin with disconnection planning, just give us a call. We’ll help you map out every detail so that when moving day comes, everything is ready to roll. Reach out to us today at 208.490.1482 to get a better idea on how we can help with your park model moving job!
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