The system of electricity used in Brunei is 220-240 volts. The plugs used on electrical items are the type with 3 pins, so those coming from the UK with electrical items will not need to worry about adaptors or purchasing new items. Those who do need adaptors will find that they are widely available.

The power company supplying electricity in Brunei is the Department of Electrical Services which is run by the government. It is relatively easy to get electricity connected in Brunei. When renting or buying a property the estate agent or the landlord may be able to assist you in having electricity connected to your home. As an expat who is new to the country you may be asked to provide personal identification and pay a larger deposit than most residents. The electricity supply is prone to power cuts and these are more likely to happen in more rural areas, but the cuts rarely last longer than a few hours.

Water is supplied by the Department of Water Services in the Brunei government. The water is considered to be safe to drink, although when you first arrive in the country it may be a good idea to use bottled water for a while until you become accustomed to it. Connecting to the water supply works in the same way as for electricity. If your landlord or estate agent cannot help you it is just a matter of contacting the department and arranging to have the supply connected. A deposit will be required and identification will need to be presented.

The customer service departments are open during normal office hours but are closed on Fridays, Sundays and on public holidays.

There is no piped domestic gas supply although some appliances can be run from bottled gas. However, they are not widely available. Most household appliances are run from the electricity supply.

Paying utility bills is now much easier in Brunei as both electricity and water bills can be paid at any of the country’s four main banks. Bills can be paid via deposit machines, cash machines and via online banking. If you prefer a more traditional approach you can pay over the counter. Customers who wish to pay in this way need to register with their bank. Bills can also be paid at the utility department offices and at a number of post offices and payments can be made using cash, cheque or credit cards.