What's the deal with security deposts (Austin, Round Rock: credit, utilities, living)

[woodinvilleguy]

So my wife and I have excellent credit and we are are moving to Austin from Seattle. I'm getting the utilities setup and they all want a security deposit for the first year. What is the deal with that? I've lived in CA and WA and never had to pay a security deposit for utilities.

[GreenPlastic]

I think that's how they deal with the high student population.

[atxcio]

I'm guessing you are primarily referring to City of Austin provided utilities... like Austin Energy, and water/trash/wastewater if you live in the city. Well, it's a monopoly.

They charge a deposit based on the history of electricity/water usage at that address... so, if the people prior to you were particularly wasteful, your deposit will be higher. It can be a big deal if you move into a place with huge summer electric bills -- if the deposit is really high, watch out. Call COA utilities and ask them about the previous usage at that address. Might be a really inefficient, poorly insulated place... or malfunctioning A/C system.

[neddy]

Out here in Leander we use Atmos Gas, City of Leander Water and PEC and we asked how to waive the fees and they said to get a letter from the previous ulitilty and they would waive the fee.

[mhudson78641]

Originally Posted by neddy

Out here in Leander we use Atmos Gas, City of Leander Water and PEC and we asked how to waive the fees and they said to get a letter from the previous ulitilty and they would waive the fee.

I had the same thing with TXU electric. City of Pflugerville water however did have a deposit that was refunded after the first year.

[Trainwreck20]

The COA refunds the deposit after one year (or used to) plus interest. You can probably get it waived if you work at it, though.

[jwb123]

Woodinvilleguy is moving to Williamson County, Round Rock... not Austin City limits.

We had the same thing - I wondered why too... I just paid it, with such a big move, I had too many other things to deal with... but I also thought it was odd. We have never paid deposits either in WA... but I guess I just chalked it up to one of the many differences (and there are many) about living here.

I do think that with a year of excellent payment history, you get it back.

[austin-steve]

Originally Posted by woodinvilleguy

So my wife and I have excellent credit and we are are moving to Austin from Seattle. I'm getting the utilities setup and they all want a security deposit for the first year. What is the deal with that? I've lived in CA and WA and never had to pay a security deposit for utilities.

They use to waive the deposit with a letter from your previous utility provider. Was that not offered as an option?
Steve

[woodinvilleguy]

Originally Posted by austin-steve

They use to waive the deposit with a letter from your previous utility provider. Was that not offered as an option?
Steve

I'll talk to them.