Dominion Energy Utility Authorization Program

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Coastal Group offering this program?

Managing utility accounts during tenant move-outs and move-ins can be surprisingly complicated. Utility bills are often sent to vacant properties, former tenants, or incorrect mailing addresses. Final bills can be missed, resulting in late fees, collection notices, or service interruptions.

This program allows Coastal Group to work directly with Dominion Energy to help manage utility accounts and maintain continuity of service when needed.

How does Revert-to-Owner work?

When a tenant disconnects electrical service, Dominion Energy can automatically transfer the account to the owner or authorized property manager rather than disconnecting service.

This helps ensure that electricity remains available for:

• Property inspections

• Cleaning and repairs

• Showings and leasing activities

• Safety and security systems

• House-meter and common-area service

The property owner remains responsible for utility charges incurred during these periods.

What is the $500 reserve for?

Owners participating in the program agree to maintain a minimum reserve balance of $500 in their property management account.

The reserve may be used for:

• Vacancy utility charges

• House-meter and common-area utility expenses

• Emergency maintenance

• Other authorized property-related expenses

Any utility expenses paid on behalf of the property will be reflected on the owner's monthly statement.

How are utility bills charged?

Utility charges remain the responsibility of the property owner.

When Coastal Group receives utility billing information, charges are posted to the property's accounting ledger and paid through the normal property management process. Owners will see these expenses on their monthly statements.

Can I cancel the authorization?

Yes.

Participation is voluntary. Owners may revoke their Dominion Energy authorization at any time by providing written notice to Coastal Group and Dominion Energy.

The Dominion authorization is initially established for a three-year term to reduce paperwork and administrative processing.

What properties qualify?

The program may be used for:

• Single-family homes

• Condominiums

• Townhomes

• Duplexes and multi-family properties

• Commercial properties

• Properties with common-area or house-meter accounts

Participation is subject to Dominion Energy's approval and account requirements.

What is a house-meter account?

A house-meter account is an electric account that serves areas not occupied by a tenant.

Examples include:

• Hallway and stairwell lighting

• Exterior lighting

• Parking lot lighting

• Sign lighting

• Irrigation systems

• Laundry rooms

• Common areas

• Utility rooms

These accounts typically remain active year-round and are generally paid by the property owner.

How does this help owners?

Benefits may include:

• Reduced risk of service interruptions

• Better oversight of utility expenses

• Fewer missed final bills

• Faster property turnover preparation

• Improved communication with Dominion Energy

• Simplified utility administration

Common Questions

Does this increase my utility costs?No. Owners remain responsible only for actual utility usage associated with their property.

Does Coastal Group become the owner of the utility account?No. Coastal Group acts as an authorized representative for utility management purposes.

Can a new tenant still place utilities in their own name?Yes. The authorization does not change the tenant's responsibility to establish utility service when required under the lease.

What happens when a tenant moves out?If applicable, service may automatically transfer to the owner/property management account rather than being disconnected.

Will I still receive information about utility expenses?Yes. Utility charges will continue to appear on your owner statements and accounting reports.

If you have additional questions, please contact Coastal Group Inc. at 757-233-9595.