__TJ__

hi, im trying to get a realistic price comparison for cost of living, i have read the wiki but wondered if anyone could help with real "this is what we pay" info.

we are heading for maple ridge, outside of vancouver ( or possibly surrey or somewhere in between) but in the Van area anyway. we will be renting so no property tax.

how much would you expect to pay for a 3 bed house ( det or semi) gas/ elec.

what about water/garbage and sewage?

and finally internet, phone and telly package?

thank you all and i know this is sensetive personal information so i appreciate any info - if you want to PM thats fine to.

JonboyE

About $100 a month for natural gas and $120 for Hydro (electricity).

Garbage is usually included in property taxes so no additional cost to the tenant. Water and sewage is sometimes included in property taxes and sometimes billed separately. It depends on the municipality. If it is billed to the occupier rather than the owner then I think it was about $400 a year in Surrey.

You will need to ask potential landlords if it is included in the rent or if it is your responsibility. There is a check list on the rental contract to list what is, and what isn't, included in the rent.

Including tax this will be about $120 a month for a basic package, which is adequate for most people. You can usually get an introductory offer. Movie and specialty TV channels are extra, as is heavy duty internet use.

__TJ__

Thanks for that jonboy, it helps to have a guide to work from. My son has about 6 computers/screens printers etc so our uk bill is fairly hefty so if I work on your figures doubled it's still cheaper than uk prices. don't need to get him a bicycle attached to a dynamo...

Ps can't give karma with my iPhone, how annoying!