Vacant property over winter
In the fall, every property owner is responsible for checking vacant properties to ensure natural gas and electricity services are connected. Check with your property’s insurance company to see how often a vacant property requires monitoring against furnace malfunctions or utility interruptions.If the property is going to remain vacant and you do not want to pay for the utility services, property owners can hire a private contractor to “winterize” the property. This usually includes draining all water lines and pipes, and filling them with anti-freeze. Once the property is winterized, the utilities can be physically disconnected without causing damage.
PLEASE NOTE: If you hire a private contractor to physically disconnect the gas and/or electricity services because you have winterized the property, make sure you notify the appropriate energy providers or they will continue to bill you for delivery charges and administration costs.
