RE: Not Such A Bad Result
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Chatgpt:
In the United States, utility disconnection laws are primarily governed at the state level, and practices can vary significantly. However, across all states, utility companies are generally prohibited from disconnecting services at one property due to unpaid bills or penalties associated with a different property. Each utility account is typically treated as a separate contract tied to a specific address, and actions taken for nonpayment are confined to the property in question.
Property-Specific Disconnections: Utility companies can disconnect services for nonpayment at the specific property where the bill is delinquent. They are not authorized to disconnect services at a different property to enforce payment for another account.
Lawyers.com
Consolidation of Accounts: While some utilities may consolidate multiple accounts under a single customer profile, disconnection actions are still typically limited to the individual account and associated property that is in arrears.
State Regulations: Each state has its own regulations regarding utility disconnections, including required notice periods, protections during extreme weather, and provisions for vulnerable populations. For detailed information on state-specific disconnection policies, the LIHEAP Clearinghouse provides a comprehensive summary.
If You Encounter an Unlawful Disconnection:
If a utility company disconnects service at one of your properties due to issues at another, consider the following steps:
Request a Written Explanation: Ask the utility company to provide a written statement detailing the reason for the disconnection and the legal basis for their action.
File a Complaint: Submit a formal complaint to your state's Public Utility Commission (PUC) or Public Service Commission (PSC), which oversees utility regulations and consumer protections.
Seek Legal Advice: Consult with an attorney who specializes in utility law or consumer protection to explore legal remedies and ensure your rights are upheld.
It's important to address such issues promptly to restore services and prevent further complications.
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There is no common sense applied here in South Africa and the chances are I could win a legal case against them and could risk paying far more even though we were not at fault.