When a unit is empty, its electric (and sometimes gas) account reverts to the owner. A share of that is the cost of vacancy. The avoidable part is days between move-in and the resident taking over service, and HVAC left running through a turn.
The check
- List the vacant-unit utility charges for the last six months by unit.
- Compare the dates with move-in dates on the rent roll. Charges after a move-in are the resident's.
- Look for units with high usage while vacant.
Fixes
- Make proof of service in the resident's name a move-in requirement.
- Set vacant thermostats to a safe setback temperature and check them at each turn walk.
- Ask the utility about a revert-to-owner agreement so service doesn't disconnect between residents.