Can a utility company legally collect an unpaid balance of a prior tenant from a new tenant moving in?

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Can a utility company legally collect an unpaid balance of a prior tenant from a new tenant moving in?

Can they legally terminate service if there is an attempt shown to pay on the account?

Asked on November 13, 2011 under Bankruptcy Law, Pennsylvania

Answers:

FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 12 years ago | Contributor

Yes, a utility company which has not been paid for utilities provided a rental from a prior tenant can refuse to restore the service until the outstanding bill is paid. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the landlord owning the rental to get the bill paid so that the new tenant can have the utility service.

The landlord then seeks reimbursement from the former tenant that failed to pay.


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