3 mo. after returning security, realized utility bill was unpaid

[Fred Sonoma]

Idiot mistake... 3 months after returning security deposit to tenants I get a call from PSEG that there is an unpaid bill greater than $1.5k at the house... What can I do? Can I send this to collections? Will I have to take them to court?

Thanks

[Matt Sicignano]

Because of errors by the utility company, specifically notifications, it looks like you are off the hook. Reference NJAC 14:3-3A.6 from the NJ Dept of Consumer Affairs. It also says the continuation of service to a tenant shall not be conditioned on payment by the tenant of any outstanding bills due on the account of any other person.