Can I turn off gas service non paying tenant?

Question

I have a non paying tenant. Gas service is in my name. She won't move, can't pay anything, and can't evict. Can I cancel the gas service or could I get in trouble for this?

Thanks

Kyle J. · Answer

@Frank Nguyen Unfortunately, you can’t shut off a tenant’s utilities. It can be considered a self-help eviction and is prohibited. A good reason not to have any utilities that you don’t have to in your name.

Account Closed · Answer

I’d recommend investing in Columbus, OH it’s a great market with cash flow and appreciation!

Remington Lyman · Answer

What if you needed to turn it off for a gas leak and now the tenants will not let you in due to you evicting them? Asking for a friend...

My 6 unit on Stanley Ave Columbus, Ohio

Al Diaz · Answer

Just thinking in terms of optics, this could be disastrous for you if you are a landlord in the same town in which you live. There's moratorium's across the country on evictions and the cutting off of utilities for non-payment.

Why would you leave utilities in your name on a rental?

Theresa Harris · Answer

No you can't. Why not offer her the equivalent of one month's rent to move? Don't give it to her until she's out, handed over the keys and you've inspected the place. Give her 48 hours to decide and then 2 weeks to find a new place. Most landlords know they are unlikely to ever see any of the rent that was unpaid during covid.

Jonathan Styer · Answer

I hope your pipes don't freeze.

Jonathan Styer · Answer

@Remington LymanA gas leak is an emergency and hopefully your lease allows you to enter without 24 notice due to emergency. You own the property and have the right to access the property for health and safety reasons. If you need to drill out the locks to enter you have that right as long as you provide the tenants with a key - which is not ideal when they are in the process of being evicted.

Jonathan Styer · Answer

Check Illinois law. I know in Ohio this would be considered a constructive eviction and is a sizeable no no.

Patricia Steiner · Answer

No. You can't do it, you can't threaten it, you can't let your tenant see this post. What you can do is sue your tenant for non-payment of rent. File a Small Claims Court Complaint - don't evict due to the moratorium - but do sue. And, while you're at it, file for eviction. That way you'll be in line when the moratorium lifts.

Don't do anything that will in the end cost you more money and place you in harms way.

Remington Lyman · Answer

Hot take! What makes you say that?

Can I turn off gas service non paying tenant?

Can I turn off gas service non paying tenant?

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