When you move out of your marital home during or after a divorce, or when your spouse moves out, you’ll need to work with the electric company.
Follow your Chapel Hill divorce lawyer’s advice on when the move should take place, and keep in mind that you’ll either need to start new electric service or remove your (or your spouse’s) name from your current account.
Moving: What Your Chapel Hill Divorce Lawyer May Suggest
Your Chapel Hill divorce lawyer may suggest that you move out of your home during or after your divorce as part of the bigger picture in a property settlement. (If you have already left your marital home, be sure to let your Chapel Hill divorce lawyer know when you moved out and why so that he or she can provide you with the most accurate legal advice.)
If, after speaking with your Chapel Hill divorce lawyer, you decide to leave your home and find a new place to live, you’ll need to remove your name from your existing account. Call Duke Energy at (877)777-9898 or visit them online to find out how to take your name off your current account.
You’ll also need to start service in your new home. Make sure you notify Duke Energy as far in advance as possible so they can send a technician to start power before you move in.
When Your Spouse Moves
If your spouse will move, or has already moved, out of your marital home, ask your Chapel Hill divorce lawyer when to remove him or her from your Duke Energy account. If the account is only in your name, you don’t need to take any action. However, if both your names are on the account, you’ll need to call the utility company and explain your situation and find out how to remove your spouse’s name.
You’ll need to notify your Chapel Hill divorce lawyer if your spouse is uncooperative about removing his or her name from the account; in that case, your attorney may discuss your legal options regarding your joint accounts.
Selling Your Home and Canceling Electrical Service
In some cases, both spouses move from the marital home. When this happens, your Chapel Hill divorce lawyer will likely advise you to simply call the electric company and have the service shut off. That way, both you and your spouse can start new accounts in your new homes.
Don’t Leave Your Chapel Hill Divorce Lawyer in the Dark
While you don’t have to discuss every minute detail of your life with your Chapel Hill divorce lawyer, you should make an effort to keep him or her updated when necessary. For example, when you move out of your home, move into a new home or make other significant changes, your Chapel Hill divorce lawyer needs to know. Your Chapel Hill divorce lawyer’s job is to provide you with the most accurate and helpful legal advice – and he or she can only do that by being aware of your current situation.
