Can a utility provider deny new service for a suppossed past due amount from 8 years ago?
Get Legal Help Today
Compare Quotes From Top Companies and Save
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
Can a utility provider deny new service for a suppossed past due amount from 8 years ago?
I need new electric service from a previous provider. They refuse new service until I pay a past due amount they say I owe from 8 years ago.
Asked on May 16, 2012 under Bankruptcy Law, North Carolina
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 12 years ago | Contributor
Yes, they allowed to do this. A business, including a utility, is not required to provide service to someone who an unpaid balance or who has not paid bills in the past. If you feel you do not owe the amount and their records are in error, you could sue for a "declaratory judgment," or a court determination that you do not owe the money; however, it may be more cost effective, especially if you believe the debt is either entirely or mostly correct, to pay it to clear up the arrears.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: The Answer(s) provided above are for general information only. The attorney providing the answer was not serving as the attorney for the person submitting the question or in any attorney-client relationship with such person. Laws may vary from state to state, and sometimes change. Tiny variations in the facts, or a fact not set forth in a question, often can change a legal outcome or an attorney's conclusion. Although AttorneyPages.com has verified the attorney was admitted to practice law in at least one jurisdiction, he or she may not be authorized to practice law in the jurisdiction referred to in the question, nor is he or she necessarily experienced in the area of the law involved. Unlike the information in the Answer(s) above, upon which you should NOT rely, for personal advice you can rely upon we suggest you retain an attorney to represent you.