Renter Didn't Pay Electric Bill, Who Owes?

[Brian Pulaski]

I have an off market lead. It is a homeowner who just removed renters from a property. The renters had not paid the electric bill (in their name) for some time. The electricity is off. The owner thinks that the electric company will simply go after the renters and once he sells it (to me or someone else) the electricity will be turned back on. My thoughts are very different and this is an issue attached to the house, not some renters who have no attachment/funds. Someone here should know.

[David Cruice]

Simply call up the electric company and ask them.  They'll tell you.  Most of the times the electric bill follows the account holder.  Not so with water bills and municipalities.  Worst case scenario you and the seller agree to split the cost of the unpaid electric.  Can't be more than a couple of thousand bucks, if that.