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Posted by Wendy on October 08, 2008 at 16:56:08:

I wanted to know if there was anything illegal about making sure that tenants have their utilities in their own names (particularly their water). This is in compliance with their lease.

I wanted them to provide the name the account is in and the account number so that I can verify it.

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Posted by Rich-CA on October 08, 2008 at 21:34:54:

to take effect shortly after they move in (or even the day they move in) and I inform the tenant they need to call to turn on utilities effective their first day. If they forget - no utilities. Its their problem not mine. I also don't have to verify anything with the utility company until I transfer utilities back.

Since you did not do this in advance, call the tenant and tell them the date your disconnect order will take effect and let them know they need to have their connect order in before the disconnect takes effect.

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Posted by Wendy on October 10, 2008 at 21:11:58:

That is such great information. Thank you very much for the info. Can you do that to the water bill as well?

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Posted by Rich-CA on October 11, 2008 at 10:15:25:

Each utility handles things differently. The disconnect order is pretty much a given for all utilities and services, and you can set the date in the future but how far will depend on the specific company/service. Some utilities have a great feature, like Colorado Springs, where if they have to "disconnect" a tenant's utilities for non payment, it automatically reverts back to the owner. That way the pipes don't freeze and burst in the winter for lack of heat.