Water
The National Water Supply & Drainage Board is responsible for the water supply in Sri Lanka. In order to apply for water utilities, you have to download an application form for domestic users from the website listed below. It is currently not available in English, but only in Sinhala:
www.waterboard.lk/Scripts/ASP/New_Connections.asp
Gas
Locals are accustomed to buying gas tank and refilling them in local shops. If you should wish to use gas, there are many local outlets in all areas to purchase the tank and refill them.
Electricity
The biggest electricity company in Sri Lanka is the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB). The average time to receive electricity is 2 weeks after the application is made, as there are several document and authorisations to provide.
It should be noted that you are legally only able to apply for a maximum of 42 kVA supply of electricity.
In order to apply for electricity, the following items must be provided:
- A copy of your ID card
- A copy of the Certificate of Conformity (CoC)
- A copy of a neighbour’s bill
- A recent accurate map of the area of the premises
- The title deed / lease agreement
- A letter from General Secretary of the division (local district), attesting to the ownership or tenancy of the property.
After this, in order to apply for the service to provide electricity, you have to complete and sign an application form, which can be found at any CSC (customer service center). The CSC will issue a voucher, and you may be charged an application fee (250,000 Sri Lankan Rupees).
The local voltage on the Island is between 220 and 240 Volts, with a frequency of 50 Hertz. You may need to use a voltage converter if your devices don’t accept the Sri Lankan voltage. The plugs in Sri Lanka are three round pins arranged in a triangle.
Household waste collection
In some areas, household waste collection is controlled by private companies, and is said to be more efficient. By weight, Sri Lankan household waste is said to be between 60% and 90 % organic. This is why the government since 2007 has been promoting technology and action for concepts such as home composting, that could save a lot of money and reduce pollution.
Household insurance
Purchasing household insurance is quite cheap, and worth it as it may protect you against unexpected damages (Storms, Burglaries, house damage, natural disasters etc).
There are several insurance companies in Sri Lanka, including a state owned corporation, Sri Lanka Insurance , or Chartis Insurance , which is a worldwide insurance company. They offer a range of packages, covering different types of damages, and you may select the cover specifically for your needs.