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Getting utilities connected in Costa Rica can be a frustrating process, especially for newcomers unfamiliar with the country’s bureaucracy and service delays. Buying a property in Costa Rica is a relatively simple process. However, the challenges to getting utilities connected often begin with the language barrier, as most communication with utility companies is conducted in Spanish. For those who are not fluent, this can lead to misunderstandings and delays in essential services. Additionally, the process can be slow, with some utilities taking weeks or even months to activate or not at all.
Complex bureaucracy
One major challenge is the complex bureaucracy. Unlike many countries where one call or online application suffices, Costa Rican utility companies always require in-person visits to submit paperwork and documents. Each company has its own requirements, such as proof of residency, property ownership, or a local ID number. This inconsistency can lead to multiple trips and unexpected costs, as requirements may not be fully explained or documented online.
The lack of clear timelines adds to the frustration. Utility providers are known for giving vague timeframes, with phrases like “próximamente” (soon) or “en unos días” (in a few days), which can stretch into weeks. For electricity and water, these delays can be particularly disruptive. The National Power and Light Company (CNFL) or the Costa Rican Institute of Electricity (ICE) may take weeks to process applications. At the same time, water companies like AyA (Acueductos y Alcantarillados) may have backlogs that further delay service initiation, especially in rural or newly developed areas.
Internet and telecommunications pose their own unique challenges. There are many internet and telecommunications providers in Costa Rica, their service availability depends greatly on the region. In rural areas, there may be limited infrastructure, causing long wait times for installation or subpar connectivity. Alternative providers exist but may not service certain areas.
Tico Time
The cultural aspect also plays a role. “Tico Time” is a common term to describe Costa Ricans’ more relaxed approach toward deadlines and schedules. Adjusting to this cultural norm can be difficult for many expatriates and foreigners who are used to punctual and efficient services. While Costa Ricans themselves often understand the system and manage expectations accordingly, newcomers can find this approach especially exasperating.
Overall, the process of getting utilities connected can be an eye-opening experience for those unfamiliar with the country’s systems. The bureaucratic hurdles, language barriers, and cultural differences contribute to a frustrating process requiring patience, flexibility, and often multiple trips to various offices. While Costa Rica is admired for its stunning landscapes and “Pura Vida” lifestyle, navigating utility connections is a reminder that paradise often comes with its own set of challenges.
If you’d like to know everything about utilities in Costa Rica, read this article now. And I suggest you hire a GoDutch Realty agent to search for your property before moving here, and you’ll learn that there is no more reason to get frustrated with getting your utilities connected.
1 Comment
CR is a country with not much economic history besides coffee and banana. It is tempting for such countries to make the same mistakes others have made before but more precisely the socialistic and communistic ctries where everybody was/is a functionaire.
Fat governments and well paid functionairs are not a solution – they are more like a plague – see Venezuela or Cuba of today. People who are not paid for performance will not perform . it is as simple as that !
A lesson CR will eventually be learning – but when ? Meanwhile: yes, even paradise may have its hassles…