I would assume your Property Manager was trying to protect the property from any damage or lapse in utility services so I not think they were at fault here. 

Lapse of time or never had a right or privilege.

Almost immediately let it lapse and have not renewed.Like Bruce noted, unless you want to represent other people in transacting real estate, you don't need it.  

I have had both my GC license and real estate license, and have let both lapse.  

Quote from @Kevin James: My tenant wants a refund of $175 for a lapse of 4 days without internet for the cost she incurred by using her mobile hotspot.

This way they don't lapse out and close.Next thing is don't have anything go to collections. 

Its like 100 bux a month, meaningless fee for them to handle it all Good luck  That was a momentary lapse in judgement lol.

.- Have discovered owners with lapsed ploicies they thought previous PMC was handling.- Also found terrible policies that owners had, that they didn't understand.4) Utilities: We check that all utilities are properly set up and cofirm or enroll in any Auto-Transfer of Service programs to avoid no heat during winter leading to frozen pipes.- Dealing with a very upset new owner client right now that previous PMC didn't handle the water account properly.

Heaven forbid a lapse in occupancy causing you to go upside down on a deal. 

Rent rolls show rents are up to date. 1 unit had lapse in payment for one month.