When our client starting receiving bills from PECO for over $2200 she was distraught and confused. She was a property owner and Landlord but did not reside at the property and did not have the PECO account in her name. Her tenant was not paying rent or utilities and we were in the process of evicting him. Apparently, once he was served with the Eviction Complaint, the Tenant called PECO and complained that his electric bill was too high. When PECO came to inspect they found what had once been a split building with one electric meter. There is a law on the books that requires any utility company to transfer all balances to the owner if they find that there is more than one unit being served from one meter. This is known as Foreign Wiring, even though no additional wiring is in use. While the property had two entrance doors (like many old splits), the property had been a single family dwelling for some time. There was only one kitchen, one internal staircase, and one L&I Rental License. However, since there were two original doors, the PECO inspector concluded that it was two apartments and the Tenant's $2200 balance went into the Landlord's name despite no violations at the property and no zoning permit for multiple family dwellings. Thankfully, the Judge saw the injustice in having a Landlord responsible for $2200 electric she didn't use and a Tenant skating without any contribution. The case was dismissed but Landlords beware. This may be a new headache to look out for with non-performing tenants and the thought of PECO inspectors determining the nature of properties and how many units are present is less than ideal.

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