Start or Stop a Service

Request Requirements for a Final Read

• Parcel being sold and all associated service addresses

If a parcel contains multiple addresses, it is not necessary to list every address. Staff will search by parcel in the billing system to ensure all accounts are included.

• Email or mailing address for final billing statement delivery

• Full name of new owner(s) (First, Middle Initial, Last)
  • If no middle initial, include date of birth

• Billing/mailing address of new customer

It is important that this address is accurate for future utility billing. This may be different from the service address.

• Phone number of new customer(s)
  • Must be a valid number for emergency contact purposes
  • If multiple owners, provide a number for each person if available

How to Submit a Final Read Request

• Complete the Final Read Request Form
• Email the Utilities Office at utilities@cityoflacrosse.org with required information
• Call (608) 789-7536

Note: A final read request schedules a meter reading appointment. The final bill is processed the next business day after the read is completed.

Homeowners Buying or Selling

Utility charges from La Crosse Utilities can become a lien on the property, so a final bill is required at closing.

• The title company or realtor will contact the Utilities Office to:
  • Provide required buyer information
  • Schedule a final meter reading (no more than 2 weeks before closing)
• A final read may also be required for vacant properties, even when charges are not based on meter usage. All outstanding balances for parcels included in the sale must be resolved before closing.
• If the property is a rental:
  • A final reading is strongly recommended, even if tenants pay the bill
  • This helps the buyer review tenant balances and billing status
  • It also helps identify delinquent payments and possible water leaks

Important: If tenant utility charges are placed on the tax roll, the new property owner becomes responsible for those charges.

Tenant Utility Responsibility & Account Changes

• When a tenant is responsible for utilities, the tenant and/or landlord must contact the Utilities Office to start or stop service.
• If a tenant moves out and no new tenant establishes service, the account is automatically placed in the landlord’s name and a vacancy notice will be issued.
• Do not rely on the bill date to determine tenant responsibility. Bills may be issued 2–4 weeks after the last meter reading.

Recommended Best Practices

• Request a final meter reading when a tenant moves in
• Request a final meter reading when a tenant moves out

This ensures tenants are billed for actual usage. Water meters in La Crosse are typically read once every 3 months.

Important Notice

Important: If a landlord or tenant does not notify the Utility of a move-in or move-out, the account will remain in the previous tenant’s name until the Utility is notified of the change.

Benefits of a Final Bill

Requesting a final bill during a property sale or tenant change helps identify potential issues and ensure all utility charges are properly resolved.

• Current and future utility charges
• Damaged or missing meter replacement costs
• Potential water leaks
• Bankruptcy-related balances tied to the seller
• Any other outstanding charges the seller is responsible for