New Oleh Center · Sparks to Life Tzfat

Utilities and Housing

Set up electricity, water, gas, and internet. Understand Arnona, Va'ad Bayit, and Israeli rental contracts.

When you move in — do this first

  • ›Photograph electricity, water, and gas meter readings
  • ›Ask landlord to show you the Dud Shemesh (solar water heater) on the roof — in winter, turn on the boiler 30-60 min before showering
  • ›Ask where the electrical breaker box is located
  • ›Do a walk-through noting every defect — record it on video with the landlord
  • ›Confirm who pays Arnona — tenant or landlord
  • ›Confirm Va'ad Bayit amount and what it covers

Electricity

Transfer the electricity bill to your name even if renting. Since July 2024, you can choose any licensed electricity supplier — potential savings of 5-20% per year. IEC infrastructure stays the same; only billing changes. IEC: call 103 or iec.co.il.

Water

In Tzfat, water is managed by Peleg HaGalil (1-800-550-050). Transfer the water account to your name with your rental contract and ID. The Arnona discount does NOT apply to your water bill. Billing is every 2-3 months.

Gas

Most apartments use gas for cooking. Two setups: (1) Central building tank — refilled automatically. (2) Private 12/48 kg tank — you arrange refills. Ask your landlord which you have before moving in.

Internet and phone

Main providers: Bezeq, HOT, Partner, Cellcom. Fiber availability varies in Tzfat — confirm before signing. Get an Israeli SIM as one of your very first steps — you need it for government appointment booking (SMS verification).

Renting in Israel

Never sign a rental contract without a lawyer. Israeli lease terms and collateral requirements are complex.

Israeli apartments often come unfurnished — no fridge, oven, washing machine, or even light fixtures. Va'ad Bayit (building maintenance fee) is typically 100-300 NIS/month. Real estate broker fees: 1 month rent plus 18% VAT.

Utilities and housing in Tzfat

Water (Peleg HaGalil): 1-800-550-050
Electricity (IEC): 103 or iec.co.il — transfer billing online or by phone
Arnona Office (Iriya): Jerusalem St. 50, Tzfat | Phone: 106
Rental price range: Approx. 2,500-4,000 NIS/month for 2-bedroom — confirm locally
Popular neighborhoods for Olim: Old City, Canaan, Darom, Nof Kinneret area
Internet coverage: Bezeq has widest coverage in Tzfat — confirm fiber at your address before signing

Sparks to Life can help

Getting set up in a new home has a hundred moving parts. We are here to help.

Reach out to us

Previous

← Education

Back to

New Oleh Center →