Benefit of using PM name or business name for utilities

[Lauren M.]

I am in the process of firing our PM company. All utilities were set up in their name and they would deduct the bills from collected rent before paying me for the month. To gain more control, I decided to set up utilities in my name (unfortunately, right now we pay water, wastewater, gas and electric for tenants). What are the risks and/or benefits of setting up utilities in my personal name? I asked the utility company and I can put utilities under our business name (we haven't set up an LLC though), but I have to put down a fairly big deposit. When I asked the representative what the benefit would be to set up the accounts under our business name, she said I would have to talk to a lawyer. Thoughts?

[Kurt K.]

For all of my transactions I use my LLC name for tracking expenses which helps with record keeping. But you can also do that with your personal name.

I'm not a lawyer and can not confirm the risks. But it seems there shouldn't be that many risks involved if you are just paying a utility company. I dont think they really care what the name is only if they get paid. 

When you contact the utility companies, you might check if it matters if you use you personal name or your business name. Sorry if I wasn't much help.