How To Handle Utilities After Tenant Moves Out?

Question

Hey Everyone,

I'm dealing with my first ever turnover of a unit. So this process is a little confusing to me. My question is what do I do about the utilities at this point?

My tenant (that's out the unit) texted me if I would be available today to meet pgw at the unit to give them access to the meter. So I'm guessing that they are about to end services there since she is moved out.

So do I call PGW right now so they can put it in my name at the same time that they take it out her name?

Then is it the same process when I find a new renter to get them to put it in there name? or is the steps different?

Jingru Sui · Answer

Some utilities company have landlord agreement. Basically they will allow you to have the property under your name. Once you have a  tenant ,they will use their lease to switch payment to their name and once they move out. it switch back to your name again.

Bill B. · Answer

I’d call now before the guy comes out, you don’t want him/her to turn it physically off or to charge you for turning it back on. They might have to come out anyway to physically read the meter if they are way behind the times but hopefully they charge the tenant or don’t charge at all.

James Nix · Answer

thanks @Bill Brandt I figured it would be a way to automate things then having to interrupt my free time by having to meet them at my unit every time to turn on and off.

So at this step right now You recommend I call PGW?

or should I just wait to ask the guy that comes to turn off service per her request to get it out her name?

Bill B. · Answer

Yes, it’s always cheaper to keep power on than to turn off and back on. Plus your workers will probably need it for turnover work.

I can’t believe someone is actually coming out? Is this a small town out in the country? About 10 years ago Nevada power switched to meters they can measure and turn on and off remotely. They never send anyone out for turnovers.

Try to keep the gas of your property has it as well because that they do need to come out for.

You can check with each utility if they have a landlord policy. My rental property utilities automatically switch to my name any time a tenant stops service. Then the new tenant simply puts it on their name. No work on my end.