In general, utility services in Romania are inexpensive, though not all are widely available.

Local governments in Romania are responsible for the water supply and sewage treatment. Running water for household use is not of top quality, but is safe to drink. Bottled water is recommended. Though hot water is available in the larger cities through a central supply system, it is not necessarily a staple in surrounding villages. Where it is available, it can't always be counted on to be present when needed - outages and shutdowns are common.

Natural gas is available for cooking with heating provided by local neighborhood stations.

Electric power throughout the country is 220 volts AC, 50 Hz. Wall sockets and plugs are two pin. Unlike the hot water supply, outages are uncommon.

Bucharest has a district heating system. The municipal energy utility, RADET, distributes heat from the national energy company to local stations in primary communities. RADET also supplies residential heat from two heat-only boiler plants. Electrica is the state-owned electric company.

Reputable gas, electric, and water utility companies are either owned directly by the Romanian Government or by a municipality. Privatization of utilities is an ongoing issue.

When not included in the rent, or if you own your residence, obtaining services can be difficult. Due to the fact that Romania is basically a cash-only economy, one must pay several months in advance and a large security deposit before services will be turned on. Proof of residence is required by all utility companies prior to service connection. This can be your lease or related financial papers.

For up-to-date information on utilities in the county in which you'll be living, contact the Ministry of Industry and Trade at the following address:

Calea Victoriei 152, Bucharest
Radu Berceanu, Minister
Tel:(40-1) 231-0262; Fax: (40-1) 312-10513