Can a public utility hold landlord reponsible for delinquent utilitiesl that was in the tenants name
Full Question:
Answer:
In some areas, the property owner is responsible for some utility bills. Ordinances are generally enforced as long as they aren't unconstitutional, despite a citizen's lack of awareness of the law. If you are responsible, you have to pay or a lien may be placed on the property. Then you may locate the old tenant so you can sue for the extra money the tenant owes.
Some utilities will not allow you to opt out of this obligation. Some force the property owner to be the guarantor of the tenant. If the tenant does not pay, the company pursues the property owner for the money. If the owner does not pay, the company places a lien on the property. See if opting out is an option for you. Also, make sure the utility marks the payment as being from you and not the tenant. The tenant shouldn't be able to get service at any other place until he pays the utility company and the company may refund your money.