Can SC utilities shut off your heat, power even in snow & winter storms? Here’s what to know

Frosty conditions are finally in South Carolina’s forecast.

According to the National Weather Service, there’s a good probability a winter storm will make its way to Columbia, and other parts of SC, this weekend.

It’s a win for those who love the snow, but it also spells problems for some South Carolina residents who are experiencing financial struggles.

Choosing between utilities or groceries is a real issue that can affect someone down on their luck. If you’re unable to pay the energy bill, you might be worried that the utility company will shut off your power.

Thankfully, there are some protections in place that will prevent residents from suffering in the freezing cold.

Here’s what you should know:

SC winter power shut off rules

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has a dedicated webpage for seasonal termination protection regulations in every state.

In South Carolina, between Dec. 1 and March 31, you can’t get disconnected from your heat source if the average forecasted temperature is freezing or below for a 45-hour period.

Additionally, there is a 30-day shut-off delay for those that are seriously ill and have a medical note from a doctor.

You can only renew the medical certificate three times during the winter protection period.

The SC Office of Regulatory Staff confirms that the medical note must be presented three days before the disconnection is scheduled to occur. It doesn’t relieve you of your obligation to pay for electrical services.

Dominion Energy options

Dominion Energy provides some relief options for those who need more time to pay their utilities.

Short-term payment extensions and long-term payment plans are available, which can either extend the bill’s due date by a couple of days or set up a payment plan that will spread the remaining balance over several months.

Here’s a breakdown of Dominion Energy’s long-term payment plan:

• Requires a down payment and will spread your bill’s current balance over three-four months
• A 1.5% late payment charge will be applied to the remaining past due balance on each bill until the payment plan is complete
• You can’t be on both short-term and long-term payment plans
• If your service is disconnected while on the Deferred Payment Plan, the arrangement is rendered null and void. Any outstanding balances will become due with the next billing cycle

You can reach out to Dominion Energy for more information of this plan at 800-251-7234.

Dominion Energy also follows the state’s winter protection guidelines, meaning you can get a medical certificate to suspend payments for 30-days, between Dec, 1 and March, 31.

SC landlord requirements

Landlords are required to provide hot water and heat to their tenants no matter the situation.

The South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act gives protections to tenants when heat and water is not being provided in their living space.

If a landlord does not provide these necessities, then the tenant can sue, but must first provide a written notice to the landlord.

A landlord usually has 14 days to turn back on heat and water, but can be ordered to repair it as soon as possible if it endangers the tenant’s safety.

If you are having a problem with heat, air or hot water in your unit, you can call South Carolina Legal Services at 888-346-5592.