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Removing gas meter

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Justifer

Junior Member
What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Mo


About three years ago I installed natural gas. Renters knew this and agreed. Renters had meter removed without approval. They are using electric heaters. I called gas service and to have meter put back in when they leave will run about $125.00. Do I take this from deposit or would this be a fee that I need them to cover before signing a new lease?
 


Zigner

Senior Member, Non-Attorney
What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Mo


About three years ago I installed natural gas. Renters knew this and agreed. Renters had meter removed without approval. They are using electric heaters. I called gas service and to have meter put back in when they leave will run about $125.00. Do I take this from deposit or would this be a fee that I need them to cover before signing a new lease?
Your choice. Personally, I'd do this now, deduct it from their security and send a demand for them to pay the amount in order to bring their security back up to the proper level...
 

xylene

Senior Member
About three years ago I installed natural gas. Renters knew this and agreed.
Did they agree in writting?

Renters had meter removed without approval.
Did your agreement specify that they had to carry gas service and that they needed your approval to discontinue it?

They are using electric heaters. I called gas service and to have meter put back in when they leave will run about $125.00. Do I take this from deposit or would this be a fee that I need them to cover before signing a new lease?
Unless you made a written agreement, I don't see any basis for a deposit charge.

You are free to inform them of the fee are the next renewal, being sure to give them proper notice in writing (30 days)

Also include in the new lease the terms that gas service is to remain in place at the tenants expense, yada...
 

justalayman

Senior Member
I suspect by "new lease" you mean a renewal of the existing lease. If so, while you could likely wait until the end of any renewal, I would address it now. Better to deal with it while things are the freshest.
 

LdiJ

Senior Member
I am completely confused...why was it necessary to completely remove a gas meter in order to discontinue gas service?
 

justalayman

Senior Member
I am completely confused...why was it necessary to completely remove a gas meter in order to discontinue gas service?
I suspect there are some reoccurring charges that continue, even with no gas usage, as long as the meter is in place.
 

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