Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Illinois

Teneant still has yet to transfer utilities to their name

I recently rented my property to a tenant. She states that she has called the utility companies to transfer service to her name. I find out that this is not the case as I am still receiving bills in the mail and have confirmed this by calling the utility companies myself to inquire whether the tenant has transfered service or not. The tenant has already racked up a $250 gas bill but it is still under my name because she never transferred service to her name. Can I shut the gas and power off in order to address this and not effect my credit? what are my rights as property owner and landlord?


Asked on 12/11/08, 4:04 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Motty Stone Law Offices of Motty Stone

Re: Teneant still has yet to transfer utilities to their name

Does your lease state that the tenant must take on the utilities payments? If so, then you may be able to evict the tenant for violating the lease.

Having the gas canceled is tricky because, in the winter, landlords can get in a lot of trouble for not providing heat. You are safer just trying to get the tenant to reimburse you for your costs and immediately threatening an eviction if the problem is not fixed.

Please feel free to give us a call if you want to talk.

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Answered on 12/12/08, 12:35 am


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