Utility Liens and Shut-offs
- A city or town owns and operates the utility. (change)
- Water and/or electrical power service charges are delinquent. (change)
- The account has been delinquent for four months or less. (change)
- The utility charges have been disputed. (change)
- The owner tendered the amount the owner claims is due. (change)
- The city or town has filed suit to recover the delinquent water and electricity charges. (change)
- The court did not enter a judgment the city or town's favor. (change)
Conclusion
According to the information you provided, the utility may not shut off water or electricity service to enforce payment of delinquent charges for the following reason:
- The court did not enter a judgment in the city or town's favor.
Explanation
- If charges on a utility account are disputed and the owner tenders payment of the amount the owner claim is due, a utility may not disconnect water and electricity until the city or town files suit and the court enters a judgment in the city or town's favor. RCW 35.21.300(1)
Legal Authority
Disclaimer
Regarding General Use of Information:
These materials are informational and are subject to change without notice. MRSC and SAO have made good faith efforts to provide reliable interpretations of Washington State and federal law relating to utility liens and shut-offs. This information is not intended to supplant due diligence by your agency's staff, and your agency may have established additional requirements that are not reflected in this tool. Always consult your agency's legal counsel, policies, and ordinances before pursuing a utility lien or shut-off. Neither MRSC or SAO or any officer, or employee of MRSC or SAO warrants the accuracy, reliability, or timeliness of any information or interpretation in these materials and shall not be liable for any losses caused by such reliance on the accuracy, reliability, or timeliness of such information or interpretation. Neither MRSC nor SAO are legally bound by any information or interpretation set forth in these materials.