Wiktor Wise
Missouri has several rules and regulations in place to protect residents from utility disconnections. These include the Cold Weather Rule and the Hot Weather Rule, which prohibit utility companies from disconnecting services during extreme weather. If you are facing an illegal shut-off, you can remind the utility company that disconnection is prohibited and contact the Missouri Public Service Commission or the Missouri Attorney General. If you are elderly or disabled, you can also register with your utility provider to access additional payment options and protect yourself from shut-offs. If you dispute a charge on your bill, you must cooperate in resolving the dispute and pay the undisputed part of the bill.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Rules | The Cold Weather Rule prohibits utility companies from disconnecting gas or electric utility services due to non-payment of a utility bill during times of extreme cold. The Hot Weather Rule prohibits utilities from disconnecting residential electricity services due to non-payment during times of extreme heat. |
| Requirements for utility providers | Utility providers must give advance notice before shutting off utilities. During the Cold Weather Rule period, they must attempt to contact the customer by mail, a door hanger, or at least two phone calls 96 hours before shut-off. They must also attempt to contact the customer on the day of the shut-off. For elderly or disabled customers who have registered with the utility provider, they must call and send a copy of the 10-day notice to the customer's alternate contact and make personal contact with the elderly or disabled customer or a family member on the day of the shut-off. |
| Customer action | If facing an illegal shut-off, remind the utility that disconnection is prohibited and immediately call the Missouri Public Service Commission (1-800-392-4211) or the Missouri Attorney General (1-800-392-8222). If you are elderly or disabled, you can register with the utility provider to gain access to additional payment options. |
| Notes | Municipal utilities and rural electric cooperatives are generally not regulated by the state, so check with your utility provider to see if the state policy applies. |
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What You'll Learn
- The Cold Weather Rule: From November 1 to March 31, utilities cannot disconnect electric service due to non-payment if the temperature is expected to be below 32°F
- The Hot Weather Rule: From June 1 to September 30, utilities cannot disconnect electric service due to non-payment if the temperature is expected to be above 95°F
- Elderly and disabled customers: Those who register with their utility provider and meet income guidelines cannot have their service shut off if they make a minimum payment
- Bill disputes: If you dispute a charge with your utility provider, service cannot be shut off for disputed charges 24 hours before the scheduled shut-off
- Illegal shut-off: If a utility attempts to disconnect service illegally, remind them that disconnection is prohibited and immediately call the Missouri Public Service Commission or the Missouri Attorney General
The Cold Weather Rule: From November 1 to March 31, utilities cannot disconnect electric service due to non-payment if the temperature is expected to be below 32°F
Missouri's Cold Weather Rule applies to gas and electric companies regulated by the Missouri Public Service Commission (PSC). The rule goes into effect annually from November 1 through March 31. During this period, utility providers are prohibited from disconnecting services on days when the temperature is forecast to drop below 32°F in the following 24 hours. Additionally, utilities cannot disconnect services if they will be unable to reconnect the following day, and the temperature is expected to be below 32°F.
It's important to note that the Cold Weather Rule does not apply to all utility providers in Missouri. Specifically, it excludes utility systems operated by cities, cooperatives, or propane delivery companies. These entities are not regulated by Public Utility Commissions (PUCs) or Public Service Commissions (PSCs).
If you are facing utility disconnection for non-payment or have concerns about your specific provider's policies, it is recommended that you consult official resources or legal advice to understand your rights and available options. Each utility provider is required to follow specific procedures before shutting off utilities, and it is important to be aware of these procedures to assert your rights effectively.
To summarize, Missouri's Cold Weather Rule provides a safety net for residents by preventing gas and electric companies from disconnecting services during extremely cold weather conditions. However, this rule does not apply to all utility providers, and it is essential to understand the specific regulations and procedures that apply to your situation.
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The Hot Weather Rule: From June 1 to September 30, utilities cannot disconnect electric service due to non-payment if the temperature is expected to be above 95°F
Missouri's Hot Weather Rule applies to all electric utility service providers in the state, including those provided by municipal utilities and rural electric cooperatives. From June 1 to September 30 each year, utility providers are prohibited from disconnecting electricity services due to non-payment if the National Weather Service forecasts temperatures above 95°F or a heat index above 105°F. This rule ensures that customers' electricity supply is maintained during periods of extreme heat, which can pose health risks, particularly to vulnerable individuals.
The Hot Weather Rule also applies to gas service shut-offs for non-payment if gas is the primary source of cooling in the home. This means that if your home relies solely on gas-powered cooling equipment, your gas service cannot be disconnected during the designated hot weather period if the temperature criteria are met.
It is worth noting that the Hot Weather Rule does not apply to all utilities in Missouri. Some utility providers, such as municipal utilities and rural electric cooperatives, may not be subject to the same regulations regarding disconnecting services. Therefore, it is important for customers to understand the specific policies and procedures of their utility providers, especially regarding potential service disconnections.
The Hot Weather Rule is a protective measure to safeguard Missouri residents from the potential health and safety risks associated with extreme heat. By maintaining access to electricity and, in certain cases, gas services during the hottest months of the year, this rule helps ensure that residents can adequately cool their homes and protect themselves and their families from heat-related dangers.
If you are facing potential utility disconnection for non-payment outside of the Hot Weather Rule period, there may be other resources and assistance programs available to help you maintain your utility services. These can include payment plans, energy assistance programs, or community resources. Additionally, utility providers are typically required to follow specific procedures and provide advance notice before shutting off utilities, so understanding your rights and available options is essential.
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Elderly and disabled customers: Those who register with their utility provider and meet income guidelines cannot have their service shut off if they make a minimum payment
In Missouri, elderly and disabled customers can register with their utility provider to gain access to additional payment options and protect themselves from utility shut-offs. By registering and meeting certain income guidelines, these customers can avoid service disconnection if they make a minimum payment.
To register, elderly or disabled customers can contact their utility provider and provide any necessary documentation to verify their age, disability status, and income level. This process may vary depending on the specific utility provider and the state's guidelines. It is always good to check with the utility provider for the exact steps to register for these protections.
Once registered, elderly and disabled customers who meet the income guidelines can make a minimum payment to maintain their utility services. The utility provider must offer additional payment options to these customers, ensuring they can continue to access essential utilities like electricity, gas, water, and telephone services.
In some cases, utility providers may have specific programs or plans tailored to the needs of elderly and disabled customers. These plans may include reduced rates or extended due dates for bills. It is important for customers to inquire about these options and understand the specific guidelines and requirements set by their utility provider.
Additionally, during the Cold Weather Rule period, low-income elderly or disabled customers who have registered with their utility provider may be eligible for further assistance. Their monthly payment can be temporarily reduced to 50% of the current bill, with the remaining balance due after the Cold Weather Rule period ends. This provision ensures that vulnerable customers can maintain their utility services during the colder months when heating is essential.
It is important to note that the specific rules and protections may vary by state and utility provider. Elderly and disabled customers should stay informed about their rights and the procedures outlined by their utility company to ensure they can effectively utilise these protections.
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Bill disputes: If you dispute a charge with your utility provider, service cannot be shut off for disputed charges 24 hours before the scheduled shut-off
If you're facing a dispute with your utility provider in Missouri, it's important to know your rights regarding service disconnection. Firstly, at least 24 hours before the scheduled shut-off, your utility provider must make reasonable attempts to contact you. This includes methods such as sending written notice, leaving a "door hanger" notice, or making two telephone calls.
On the scheduled day of the shut-off, the utility provider is obligated to make further reasonable efforts to get in touch with you. They must provide identification, clarify the purpose of their visit, and supply you with a notice that includes a restoration phone number and address.
In terms of bill disputes, there are specific circumstances under which the utility provider cannot proceed with a service shut-off. Firstly, they cannot disconnect your service if the issue is related to the failure of another customer to pay their bill, unless you have substantially benefited from or used the service in question. Similarly, if a previous owner or resident of your premises has an unpaid delinquent bill, your service cannot be shut off unless that person is still living on the premises.
Additionally, if the dispute involves charges for services received at a different address, the current service at your present address cannot be disconnected. However, the utility provider does have the right to combine that bill with your current bill.
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Illegal shut-off: If a utility attempts to disconnect service illegally, remind them that disconnection is prohibited and immediately call the Missouri Public Service Commission or the Missouri Attorney General
Missouri's Hot Weather Rule prohibits utilities from disconnecting residential electricity services due to non-payment of a utility bill during periods of extreme heat. This rule is in effect from June 1 to September 30 each year and applies to all electric utility service providers in the state. On days when the temperature is predicted to exceed 95 degrees Fahrenheit or the heat index will surpass 105 degrees, utility providers are barred from disconnecting electricity services.
If a utility company attempts to disconnect your electric service illegally, you have the right to remind them that such disconnection is prohibited. You should immediately contact the Missouri Public Service Commission at 1-800-392-4211 or the Missouri Attorney General at 1-800-392-8222. These entities are equipped to handle complaints regarding utility rights and shutoff issues. It is important to note that the information provided is for educational purposes and is not legal advice. For specific legal guidance, consulting a lawyer is recommended.
Additionally, it is important to understand your rights regarding utility shutoffs and bill disputes in Missouri. If you dispute a charge on your utility bill, you must do so with the utility provider either in writing, in person, or by telephone. Service disconnection is not permitted for charges legitimately disputed 24 hours before the scheduled shutoff. However, frivolous disputes will not prevent the service from being disconnected. You must still pay the undisputed portion of the bill and cooperate in resolving the dispute.
In summary, Missouri residents have protections against illegal utility shutoffs, particularly during periods of extreme heat. If you face an illegal shutoff attempt, you can assert your rights by reminding the utility company of the prohibitions and contacting the Missouri Public Service Commission or the Missouri Attorney General. It is also important to understand your rights regarding bill disputes and the procedures utility providers must follow before shutting off your utilities.
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Frequently asked questions
The Cold Weather Rule prohibits utility companies from disconnecting gas or electric utility services due to non-payment of a utility bill during times of extreme cold.
The Hot Weather Rule prohibits utility companies from disconnecting residential electricity services due to non-payment of a utility bill during times of extreme heat.
If a utility company attempts to disconnect your service on a day when the Cold Weather Rule or Hot Weather Rule is in effect, remind the company that disconnection is prohibited and immediately call the Missouri Public Service Commission (1-800-392-4211) or the Missouri Attorney General (1-800-392-8222).
A utility provider must attempt to contact the customer by mail, a door hanger, or at least two phone calls 96 hours before the shut-off. They must also attempt to contact the customer on the day of the shut-off.
Yes, elderly or disabled customers can register with the utility provider to gain access to additional payment options. Utility services for registered elderly and disabled customers who meet certain income guidelines and make a minimum payment cannot be shut off.
