The Ultimate Utility Disconnect Checklist for Texas Homeowners (2026)

Utility disconnections are often the #1 cause of project delays in Texas demolition. Whether you are in the heart of Houston, the historic districts of San Antonio, or the tech hubs of Austin, utility companies move on their own timelines—often requiring 3 to 6 weeks of lead time.

At HouseDemoTX, we’ve managed hundreds of site preparations. Follow this checklist to ensure your site is safe, legal, and ready for the machines to roll.

1. Pre-Demolition Utility Survey

Before calling any providers, you must walk the property and identify every connection point.

• [ ] Identify Meters: Locate electric, gas, and water meters.

• [ ] Trace Overhead Lines: Note any power or telecommunication lines running from the street to the structure.

• [ ] Mark Underground Assets: Use Texas 811 ("Call Before You Dig") to have underground lines marked with spray paint or flags.

• [ ] Check for Shared Services: Ensure your lines don't feed a neighbor's garage or a shared well/septic system.

2. The Big Four: Service Removal vs. Simple Shut-off

Standard "account closing" is not enough for demolition. You must request a Service Removal (Retirement).

⚡ Electricity

• The Goal: Full removal of the meter and the service drop (the wire from the pole to the house).

• Provider Action: Call your provider (e.g., CenterPoint, CPS Energy, or Austin Energy).

• [ ] Request a "Demolition Disconnect."

• [ ] Verify the line is rolled back to the transformer or pole.

• [ ] Obtain a "Letter of Disconnect" for your city permit.

🔥 Natural Gas

• The Goal: Gas must be retired and capped at the main (usually at the street).

• Provider Action: Contact Atmos Energy or CenterPoint Gas.

• [ ] Request a "Service Retirement."

• [ ] Warning: This is often the slowest step (up to 4 weeks). Schedule this first.

• [ ] Confirm the meter has been physically removed from the property.

💧 Water & Sewer

• The Goal: Air-tight capping to prevent site flooding and sewer backups.

• Provider Action: Contact your municipal water department (e.g., Houston Public Works).

• [ ] Request a "Capping Permit."

• [ ] Hire a Licensed Plumber: Most Texas cities require a licensed professional to physically cap the line and have it inspected.

• [ ] Decide if you need a "Temporary Water Meter" for dust control during demo.

📞 Telecommunications

• [ ] Internet/Cable: Call Comcast, AT&T, or Spectrum to remove their lines.

• [ ] Tip: These lines aren't lethal like power or gas, but they will snag your excavator and cause neighborhood outages if not cleared.

3. Timeline & Compliance Checklist

• [ ] 4-6 Weeks Out: Call Gas and Electric providers to initiate "Retirement" orders.

• [ ] 3 Weeks Out: Hire your plumber and electrician for internal capping.

• [ ] 2 Weeks Out: Submit "Proof of Disconnect" letters to the city to finalize your Demolition Permit.

• [ ] 48 Hours Out: Conduct a final site walkthrough with your HouseDemoTX project manager to verify all lines are "Cold."

Pro-Tip: The "Dust Control" Strategy

In 2026, Texas EPA guidelines are strict regarding dust. If you are doing a large house demolition, we recommend keeping your water service active until the day of demo to provide a high-pressure hose for dust suppression. We will then coordinate the final cap immediately following the structure removal.

Need help navigating the red tape? HouseDemoTX provides full-service site management. We can coordinate with your utility providers to save you weeks of phone calls.

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