Dealing with Utility Companies After Death
Managing Utility Accounts
When someone dies, their utility accounts need to be transferred, closed, or continued. This guide explains how to handle each type of utility service.
Utility Companies Checklist
What You'll Need
- Death certificate
- Account numbers and recent bills
- Your ID and proof of authority to act
- Final meter readings (for gas and electricity)
Key Information
Final Bills
Most companies will send a final bill to the estate. Keep these for probate.
Refunds
Any credit balances will be refunded to the estate.
Priority Services
If vulnerable people remain in the property, ask about priority service registers.
Related Guides
Complete Notification Checklist
Full list including utilities, telecoms and subscription services
Close Bank Accounts
Cancel direct debits for utilities before closing bank accounts
Secure Property
Keep utilities running or turn them off safely in empty properties
Cancel Insurance
Notify insurers and cancel policies including home and contents insurance
Death Notification Service
Quick notification service for some utilities and service providers
Tell Us Once Service
Notify government departments which may help with council tax
What to Do When Someone Dies
Complete overview of all death administration tasks
Register a Death
Get death certificates needed by utility companies
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