Advice please on utilities for housing

I just received my first contract and I am shocked that they did not specify a one-bedroom, rather "private furnished housing"...but they say they "allow" $50.00/mo for utilities, as if...and then say I have to "arrange" for them myself! Is this usual? I had agreed to start work the day after Thanksgiving but how could I get my utilities turned on when I won't get to town until Wednesday night late?

I wouldn't say that is the norm. Usually the travel companies will arrange the utilities except for phone and cable. Most apartment complexes include water in the rent. You could always call the electric company and arrange to have the power turned on a day ahead of time. They may require a deposit. It's to much of a hassle for me. I wouldn't even deal with a company who doesn't arrange this for me. What company are you with?

I thought that was unusual. This co is called Nurses in Partnership but I am starting to wonder....I have some others I am talking to. I accepted verbally but this contract has me bugged...

I would say its not the norm. Most companies have everything set up in their name. I wouldnt mess with a company that forced me to pay out all the deposits...they can get pricey depending on where you are going and its not worth it for 13 week. Good luck

Call the housing complex that you will be staying at and have them either email or fax you a list of the utility providers. W/S/G, telephone, cable provider, etc. Then call the companies, give them the info and ask to have everything turned on at least 2 days before your arrival. Note: Having a travel company have you do this on your own is a bit unorthodox. This should be a part of the package that they provide for you. You did not mention furnishings. If you have to arrange your own then give Cort Furniture a call in you contract locale. Hope this helps PS. $50 a month isn't going to be enough. I would consider breaking this contract and finding a reputable company to travel with. If they are sketchy on this aspect what are they going to be like if problems occur. Remember you are in in unknown world working for an unknown company and totally dependent. "Do your research before hand"

I haven't heard of this company and I've been traveling for 6 years.Don't sign the contract until you've checked them out.How long have they been in business? can you talk to a nurse that travels with them?Untilities are usually taken care of by the company.I have heard of a small copay in areas where housing is really expensive but have not run into this myself.

I agree, if you are having 2nd thoughts, don't go. Do your homework and check this company out. I would not work with a company that did not take care of everything and $50.00 is not enough. There are two many companies out there with better benefits. Let your company work for you. Good Luck

A company just tried to pull this on me.

I'm not going to do that, that's ridiculous. They're out of their minds.

Plenty of other companies out there who will take care of business.

I have been a traveler for 4 years.NEVER have I heard of a company not paying utilites!! The nerve!! Remember to be pro-active. You are in demand. They need you!!!NOt to be a hard-butt but I am insulted that some company out there would pull something like that!!! This company is either new or paying the bare minimum to nurses and pocketing the rest or their overhead must be high. It doesn't give the feeling of "taking care of their nurses" You don't want to be away from home with a company who doesn't have your back. My advice to all who read these replys is to take note of the name of the company

I have been a traveler for 4 years.NEVER have I heard of a company not paying utilites!! The nerve!! Remember to be pro-active. You are in demand. They need you!!!NOt to be a hard-butt but I am insulted that some company out there would pull something like that!!! This company is either new or paying the bare minimum to nurses and pocketing the rest or their overhead must be high. It doesn't give the feeling of "taking care of their nurses" You don't want to be away from home with a company who doesn't have your back. My advice to all who read these replys is to take note of the name of the company If you are not on assignment yet and have signed the contract remember you can legally cancel a contract that is greater than 25 dollars or make up a medical/or family excuse. I am truly concerned about you with this company. It is wintertime and you could be out alot of money paying for lights, gas , telephone. FYI> use your cell phone. it is tax deductible.

I took an assignment with NIP, and yes they did give me 50/month for electric. They basically set it up in their name and I paid the extra if I went over the 50.
Even though they did pay my electric, I do not recommend this company for other reasons.
Jenni