Transition of utilities

[Vince Mai]

Hi all!

We have been new landlords for the past two years so we have not encounter this situation where the tenant leaves early before their lease ends. My tenant is leaving early July 15th and their lease doesn't end until August 31st. We are trying to find new tenants so I wanted to ask about the transition of utilities. Do I temporarily transfer utilities (gas, water, electricity) to my name on Jly 16th until the new tenant moves in? Are the old tenants are still obligated to pay the utilities (gas, water, and electricity) during the transition period since they are breaking their lease early? Thank you in advance for your help!

Vince

[Nathan Gesner]

Quote from @Vince Mai:

Yes.

The tenant is obligated for the full term of the lease, which includes rent, utilities, landscaping, and any other expenses. If he leaves early, he remains obligated until a new Tenant takes over. As the Landlord, you are legally obligated to make a good faith effort to find a replacement tenant quickly and minimize the financial damages to the departing tenant.

Just because he leaves early doesn't mean the lease is terminated, so the deadline for returning the deposit does not start until after termination. Clean the unit, make repairs, and pay the utilities. Once a new Tenant is secured, apply the deposit and refund any remainder along with an accounting of charges, per your state law.