Electricity, gas, and heat cuts: Ukrainians face basic inconveniences to life

The number of people in Ukraine with utility debt is growing, and the consequences of this situation may be much more serious than many consumers expect. Lawyer Natalia Agnatush, who specializes in housing and communal services, noted that this problem requires attention.

According to the Unified Register of Debtors, more than 794,000 enforcement proceedings related to non-payment of utility services have been registered in Ukraine. About 60% of them have been formally completed, but there has been no actual collection of debts, which may create a false impression of the alleged “cancellation” of debts.

According to the expert, it is worth considering the statute of limitations, which is prescribed in Article 257 of the Civil Code of Ukraine. Utility companies have 3 years to file a claim for debt collection, but this does not automatically cancel obligations.

Agnatush also warned that suppliers have the right to suspend services to debtors even without a court order. Electricity can be disconnected with little effort, while gas and water are disconnected according to specific procedures, and heating can be stopped for individual apartments in high-rise buildings. It is essential to know that reconnection is often at the expense of the debtor.

To prevent disconnections, lawyers recommend not ignoring the problem. If financial difficulties arise, it is advisable to contact utilities, discuss the possibility of debt restructuring, and try to pay at least the minimum amounts. This demonstrates a willingness to pay and reduces the likelihood of disconnection of electricity, gas, heat, or water.