Once you have fixed the problems for the shut-off or provided a valid medical certificate, the utility company must timely turn on your service. If the utility company does not meet the time limits, you may not have to pay a reconnection fee. 

If the delay is for 2 or more calendar days and was not your fault, the utility must credit your account:

• Two non-prorated monthly charges, or
• Three non-prorated monthly charges if the shut off was a mistake. 

Reconnection time limits vary depending on your situation:

• The utility must reconnect your service within one business day (M-F) if:
  • You provide a valid medical certificate; or
  • The utility disconnects your service by mistake. In this case, you will not have to pay a reconnection fee.
• Your electric, water, or sewer service must be turned on within 4 calendar days once you are eligible.
• Your natural gas service must be turned on within 7 calendar days once you are eligible.

The time limits do not apply if:

• You do not give the utility company access to reconnect the service;
• The shut-off happened at place other than the meter as a result of lack of access;
• Repair is needed to correct damage or an unsafe condition; or
• Unforeseen reasons cause delay.

Do not avoid paying your bill by having another person apply for services:

If you try to get someone else in your home to apply, it may lead to trouble. The utility can punish you by requiring a deposit. This is called a Payment Avoidance by Location (PAL) deposit.

A PAL deposit is 1/3 of the estimated annual charges for your home. It must be paid in full before service is reconnected. This PAL deposit is in addition to any other deposits or fees.