Also with washer unless they are super overloading it, or moved it and the hose disconnected that could be the cause.

But there's a disconnect in what he's saying.

I did disconnect and added a lock to the garage door that I will remove once its rented, that way they have to go through the front door where its more visible. 

That disconnect could raise questions. 

Otherwise it just creates a disconnect and shows unproffesionalism. 

What the utility needed you to was have the owner schedule a disconnect in the future then you could schedule the utilities to be put in your name, like a tenant move out. 

I have only found one online that advertises this option and their phone number is disconnected.

Is there a way to mentally 'disconnect' from the property while ensuring everything is handled responsibly?

He has ignored eviction warnings in the past and despite having his water and electric disconnected he maintains some measure of residency, as does his large pit bull type dog. 

He is responsible for gas/electric.He called me yesterday and notified me that the electric company disconnected his service 2 months a go because his bill got too big and he can not pay it at the moment.