Utility shutoff protection
Rules that limit when a utility company can shut off your water, electric, or gas, including cold and hot weather protections, and help paying the bill.
The general rule
Sometimes the heat is off because the utilities (water, electric, gas) were shut off over unpaid bills. You may have protection: 42 states have cold weather rules that limit utility shutoffs. Ask your utility company what cold weather protections apply to you, and ask about help paying the bill.
✓ Sources checked August 31, 2026
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