Late utilities transfer

[Amy Lee]

I was being naive and let the tenants move in without having utilities to their name. I outlined this in the ad but nothing in the lease. At this point, I'll be paying for their utilities for 1-2 weeks. I can't make calls to the companies with the weekend and holiday. Do I have to eat the cost on this? Is there a way to throw this back to have them pay? How would I figure what amount they are due for?

[Nathan Gesner]

Quote from @Amy Lee:

I was being naive and let the tenants move in without having utilities to their name. I outlined this in the ad but nothing in the lease. At this point, I'll be paying for their utilities for 1-2 weeks. I can't make calls to the companies with the weekend and holiday. Do I have to eat the cost on this? Is there a way to throw this back to have them pay? How would I figure what amount they are due for?

Dear Tenant,

Per Paragraph X in your lease agreement, you are responsible for utilities. The utilities were not put in your name until X days after you occupied. I am including a copy of the bills to show the inclusive dates you are responsible for and the prorated amount. Please make payment within 15 days.

Landlord