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Who Connects Utilities During a Vacancy Period?

Audience: property owners who want to know who is responsible for utilities when a home is vacant and why this matters operationally and legally.

During a vacancy, utilities are typically the owner’s responsibility. Keeping essential services active protects the property, supports maintenance and showings, and prevents costly damage.

Here’s how utility responsibility works and why it’s important.

FAQs ❓

Why can’t utilities just stay off while the home is vacant?
Because disconnected utilities can cause damage, delay repairs, and block showings.

Does the tenant keep utilities on after moving out?
No. Utility responsibility usually reverts to the owner at move-out.

Which utilities matter most?
Water and electricity are the most critical.

Does MoveZen automatically handle utility setup?
In some cases, but owners are ultimately responsible unless arrangements are made.

Why Utilities Matter During Vacancy ⚖️

Active utilities are necessary to:

  • Prevent frozen pipes or water damage

  • Allow HVAC testing and operation

  • Support maintenance and inspections

  • Enable showings and turnover work

A vacant home without utilities creates avoidable risk.

Typical Utility Responsibility Breakdown ✔️

During vacancy:

  • Owner: responsible for utilities

  • Tenant: no longer billed once they vacate

  • Management: coordinates as needed, depending on setup

This structure keeps liability clear.

Which Utilities Should Remain On 🔌

At minimum, owners should maintain:

  • Electricity

  • Water

Gas, internet, or trash may be situational depending on property type and local requirements.

How Utilities Are Usually Handled 🧾

Owners often:

  • Keep utilities in their name year-round

  • Transfer utilities back at move-out

  • Reconnect utilities before vacancy begins

This avoids gaps in service.

Related article:
https://know.movezen360.com/new-onboard-or-moving-out-fire-safety-audits

What Happens If Utilities Are Not Active 🚫

Inactive utilities can lead to:

  • Delayed repairs

  • Failed inspections

  • Inability to show the home

  • Preventable property damage

These delays often cost more than the utilities themselves.

How This Appears Financially 📄

Utility costs during vacancy:

  • Are owner expenses

  • Appear on Owner Statements (if paid through trust)

  • Are not tenant charges

Related article:
https://know.movezen360.com/how-to-read-owner-statement

Planning Ahead Helps 💡

Owners can reduce issues by:

  • Confirming utility transfer timing

  • Keeping accounts active between tenants

  • Communicating preferences in advance

This creates smoother turnovers.

A Helpful Owner Perspective 🤔

Instead of viewing vacancy utilities as “wasted expense,” think:

“This is risk prevention and turnover acceleration.”

That framing reflects their real value.