At the beginning of the pandemic in early 2020 Livable along with several utility-based companies did our part to make sure that residents were able to afford their utilities. In April 2020 Livable announced that we were suspending all late fees until July 1, 2020. Throughout the pandemic, we have remained committed to promoting conservation through billing and education, and with no minimums.
Suspended Shutoffs During the Pandemic
From coast to coast in early 2020, many utility companies took the extraordinary step of suspending shutoffs as the coronavirus sent unemployment numbers to figures not seen since the Great Depression.
In California, some of the largest gas and electric companies, including Pacific Gas and Electric, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas and Electric assured not to shut off customers’ power due to nonpayment. “I think they’re having a new relationship with their customers in acknowledging that just being punitive is not the answer, and that really helping their customers stay in a home with power will only help them revive economically. And that it’s in their interest to keep these customers healthy” - Martha Guzman Aceves - CPUC Commissioner 2020
Although several companies honoured the measure there was actually no statewide power shutoff ruling in the state of California. New York and New Jersey, two of the states hardest hit by COVID-19, had government rulings to keep power and heat on for all residents. As well as power promises, many states, including California issued moratoriums on water shutoffs.
“Everyone, regardless as to what industry, has to have a heightened responsibility that’s encompassed in compassion and take everything into consideration. Now is not the time to be worrying about late payments or bills. We need to get past this, hopefully, to see what we’re facing and then deal with other things” - New Jersey state Sen. Teresa Ruiz 2020
As lockdowns and other factors that came from the pandemic ease off, people are back to work and able to pay for utilities once again. At Livable by offsetting the rising costs of utilities through an easy to manage RUBS program we help tenants save money while also saving the world! Book a call today to connect with a Livable professional.
.png?width=600&name=Livable_SuperSaver_TipOfTheMonth_v2%20(1).png)
Since 2020 apartments have been doubling as workspaces, it’s a good time to remind residents of the simple ways they can save energy. Check out this informative list from Oregon’s KGW8 and forward your favorites on to your residents.
