When Can Utilities Be Shut Off?
Utility companies must follow strict timelines before terminating service:
- No action can be taken until a bill is 20 days past due.
- Then, the company must issue a final notice at least 15 days before shutoff.
- This means the earliest a shutoff can legally happen is 35 days after the due date.
- Shutoffs can only happen Monday–Thursday, between 8 AM and 4 PM.
- Shutoffs cannot happen on:
- Fridays,
- Holidays,
- Days when the utility company’s main office is closed, or
- During the two weeks around Christmas and New Year’s.
If your shutoff didn’t follow these rules, contact the NYS Public Service Commission to report a violation.
Deferred Payment Agreements (DPA)
If you’re behind on your utility bills, you can request a Deferred Payment Agreement (DPA):
- DPAs allow you to pay back what you owe over time.
- They must reflect your actual financial situation — down payments can be as low as $0, and monthly payments as low as $10.
- The agreement must be signed by both you and the utility provider.
If your financial situation changes, contact the utility immediately to renegotiate the DPA. You may need to provide documentation of your changed circumstances.
Shared Metering
If more than one unit shares a utility meter:
- The Shared Meter Law requires the owner to pay for the service, or to separate the meters.
- Tenants should not be charged for utilities used by others.
Need Help?
Contact the Public Utility Law Project (PULP) for free support:
📞 Hotline: 877-669-2572
📧 Email: info@utilityproject.org