Utility services in Maryland to send shut-off notices starting Oct. 1st

ANNAPOLIS, Md. – In Maryland, Starting October 1st, utility companies will be allowed to start sending out shut-off notices to residents in the state ending a nearly seven-month moratorium. The moratorium, which started around mid-March, will still prohibit companies from shutting off water, gas, and electric services for residents through November 15th. But if you’re behind on payments you will start getting these shut off notices in the mail. Early last week a number of Maryland lawmakers met to discuss the concerns people had about possible shut-offs as we head into the winter months.

“The briefing that we had last week was sort of a warning sign of here is where we stand as a state, here are the things that we’re doing, and here’s perhaps where the challenges are moving forward,” said Delegate Chris Adams (R-District 37B).

State officials add that residential customers who owe money will have 45 days from the day they get their notice to work out a payment plan with their utility company or apply for energy assistance programs.