Flat sale / Tenants moving out. What to do with Bills?

Landlord Discussion
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Hello I am in the process of selling my flat which is a little slow in going through. The tennants are moving out on 6th April and this is likely to be a few weeks before I exchange. My question is - noone is living in the property so no electricity or bills will be used or water BUT do i need contact all the suppliers and put the bills in my name just for 1-4 weeks or not? Can i just leave it until the new owner comes in?
Please can anyone advise? thanks

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You need to advise them, and transfer bills to your name. Its very simple…send them an email, with readings, and they will make the switches.

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so on day my tennants move out need to share their final readings? with suppliers?

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what about council tax? as i am not moving back in and already on another one in my current house

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tell all utilities and LA what is happening

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Yes, you will be liable for council tax. Some councils allow a reduction if the property is empty and unfurnished, but some don’t, so you may be liable for full council tax.

I’m currently paying council tax on 3 properties. My own, one being redecorated as inbetween tenants, and one waiting for a sale to complete.

7

yes

and get their forwarding address as utility companies usually ask for that so they can issue the final bill and you will need it for any post that arrives for them anyway

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You will be responsible for the standing charge on the electricity even if you don’t use any power. Water companies usually don’t charge if you tell them what is happening & turn the water off. Council tax will be due, probably at the full rate.

You also need to tell your insurance it is empty & check how long they will cover you on your existing policy & whether there are any special requirements - like regular inspections - whilst it is empty. If it is empty for several months you may need specialist Empty Property cover.

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Good point about insurance Tricia.

As an example, AXA only allow you to have a property empty for 45 days. Any longer than that and they will unilaterally cancel your LL insurance. I told them that policy wasn’t fit for landlords who might want to do work between tenants or struggle to find a tenant. They weren’t interested.

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