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Tenant did not pay utility bill, caused damage
by Raj (MN)
on February 2, 2016 @16:20
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My tenants did not not pay utility (gas) bill correctly and because of this the gas company disconnected the gas service. By the time they disconnected the service, the tenant had moved out. This caused pipes to freeze in the middle of the winter causing several thousands of dollars in damage.
The gas company did not contact me before disconnecting gas.
In the lease, I have mentioned it is the responsibility of tenants to pay the utility bill.
Can I withhold the deposit paid by the tenant at the least ? This will definitely not cover the damage.
Can I hold the tenant responsible for the damage and go after him/her ? Thanks
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Re: Tenant did not pay utility bill, caused damage
by Garry (Iowa)
on February 2, 2016 @17:50
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Explain your use of the word "correctly" in your post. Did the T's gas get shut off for non-payment? Did the T move without notifying you, or did one of you give notice to the other about moving? What is your gas company's policy regarding non-pay, or transfers into your name? You should at least have an agreement with your utility companies that they notify you of pending shutoffs. If the T just took off without notifying you, then you can hold him liable for damages. I get notices of pending shutoffs, even if its for non-payment, and also have the agreement that the utilities go back into my name if the T calls in to the utility to say they are moving out.
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