How to transfer or close gas, electricity, water, broadband, and other utilities after someone dies.
This guide is part of ProbateHelp's Notifications guide cluster. Estimated reading time: 10 min.
Also searched as: dealing with utilities; dealing with utilities after death.
Bills incurred under the deceased's sole contract are generally estate debts, not a relative's personal debts. Liability can differ for a joint account, a new occupier, or someone who agrees to take over a contract. If the estate may be insolvent, do not distribute assets before taking advice on the order for paying debts.
For gas, use the Find My Supplier service. For electricity, Ofgem directs consumers to the Energy Networks Association postcode search to identify the network operator, which can tell you the supplier. Keep a dated meter reading and photograph when responsibility for the property changes.
The person legally responsible for the ongoing supply should first tell the current supplier about the death and establish the account position. Ask the supplier what authority and information it needs before trying to switch or open a new contract.
Bereavement policies and contract terms differ. Ask the provider to state in writing whether it will close or transfer the service, whether a charge applies, and whether equipment must be returned. Use its complaints process if the answer conflicts with the contract or published bereavement policy.
Contact the network and ask about closing the service, any separate handset finance, charges or refunds, and whether the number can be transferred. Do not assume every network offers the same terms or accepts the same evidence.
In England, a qualifying empty property is exempt while it remains unoccupied and until probate or letters of administration are granted. A further six months can apply after the grant while it remains unoccupied and has not been sold or transferred. Tell the council when the grant, occupation, sale, or transfer occurs. Rules differ elsewhere in the UK.
Ask the provider for a final statement and how it will repay any credit. It may require evidence that the claimant is entitled to receive estate money. For a joint account, check the contract and beneficial ownership rather than assuming the whole credit belongs to one person.
A provider may close or update an account without a grant, but its evidence requirements can depend on the account and any money due. Ask what it needs. Being next of kin does not automatically give authority to receive estate funds or enter a new contract.