Gap Period

follyfoot

Hi my tenants are moving soon and I just wondered what name I should put the utilities in if there is a gap between them moving out and the next tenant moving in? Or should i disconnect the utilities?

MX5huggy

Don't disconnect could be a right parlarva to sort back out. Either put them in your name or just let the departing T's give meter readings and then when the new T's arrive and put them in their name the bill for the middle bit will be sent to the occupier.

follyfoot

you mean the bill for the middle bit will be sent to the landlord since the flat may not be occupied for 2-3 weeks?

MX5huggy

It won't be sent to the LL unless you tell them your name and address. It will be sent to "the occupier" at the property address your new T's will then open it and either payit (unlikley), throw it in the bin or pass it on to you (via LA?)

Imp

Between tenants moving out and new tenants moving in, the landlord is responsible for the bills, so you should tell the utility companies and council that you are now responsible, and provide the correct meter readings. It's one thing to try and save money, another to try and make you tenants pay for what is you responsibility.

mustrum_ridcully

follyfoot, don't disconnect as you might want or need to use the utilities. When the tenants move out the utility company will know and future bills will be addressed occupier/landlord. So unless you plan to visit and pick-up the bill give the utility companies your details.

Remember to sort out the council tax as well.

I don't know if you have new tenants lined up, but if not don't just assume you'll get some in a week or two, the way things are now it could even be several months.