Utility accounts — electricity, gas, water, internet, phone — require specific handling after a death. Unlike subscriptions that can simply be canceled, utilities often need to stay active until the property is sold or transferred, then be transferred to a new account holder or closed.
The Key Distinction: Active vs. Vacant Property
The most important factor in managing utility accounts after death is whether the property will remain occupied or become vacant:
- Surviving spouse or family member continues living there: Utilities typically stay on and transfer to the new occupant's name
- Property is empty during estate settlement: Some utilities must stay active (heat in winter to prevent pipe damage, electricity for security systems), while others can be reduced or canceled
- Property is sold: Utilities are typically closed at settlement; the new owner sets up new accounts
Notifying Utility Companies
Most utility companies have a specific process for handling accounts after a death. You'll typically need:
- A certified copy of the death certificate
- The account number (found on a bill)
- Your name and relationship to the deceased
- Letters testamentary if you're the executor and need to make decisions about the account
Contact each utility company's customer service and specifically ask for their "deceased customer" or "estate" department.
Electricity and Gas
These are typically the most urgent to address if the property will be vacant — you need enough power to prevent damage (especially in winter) without paying for full residential service. Many utilities offer a reduced "vacant property" rate for estates.
If the property is actively occupied by a family member, the utility typically needs to transfer the account to that person's name within 30–60 days of the original account holder's death.
Water and Sewer
Water should generally stay on for properties under estate administration, even if vacant — it's needed for cleaning, minor repairs, and property maintenance. Request transfer to the estate's name if the account holder was the sole owner.
Internet and Cable
If the property is vacant and being prepared for sale, internet and cable can typically be canceled. If a family member is living in the home, transfer the account to their name.
Note: Cable/internet contracts may have early termination fees, but most providers waive these upon proof of death.
Cell Phone
The deceased's cell phone account should be reviewed promptly. Options include:
- Transferring a phone number to another family member's account
- Canceling the line with a death certificate
- Reviewing the account for voicemails or messages to preserve before canceling
Most carriers have a dedicated process for deceased customer accounts accessible through customer service.
Home Security and Alarm Monitoring
Keep home security active if the property will be vacant or in the process of being settled. Notify the monitoring company of the death so they have updated emergency contact information. When the property is sold, cancel the monitoring service — most will waive termination fees upon proof of death.
Documenting What You've Done
Keep a simple log of each utility account contacted, the date, the result, and any reference numbers. This documentation is part of the estate administration record. For the broader picture, see our complete guide to accounts and subscriptions.