Utility Management

Ensuring Seamless Utility Coordination for Alaska REO Properties

Utility management is a critical but often overlooked aspect of REO property management in Alaska. Harsh weather conditions and remote locations make timely activation and deactivation of utilities essential for property preservation and sale readiness. Huntley & Associates takes the guesswork out of managing utilities, ensuring seamless transitions for asset managers.

Alaska's Unique Utility Challenges

Coordinating utilities in Alaska is far more complex than just making a phone call. Many REO properties are in rural areas where service providers operate on limited schedules, and extreme temperatures make delays costly. Our team handles:

• Power Activation & Shutdown – Preventing frozen pipes and property damage.
• Water & Sewer Management – Ensuring systems are winterized and safe.
• Heating & Fuel Coordination – Managing oil, propane, and natural gas systems.
• Utility Transfer Logistics – Handling transitions between owners, tenants, and vacant status.

 

Why Utility Management Matters in Alaska

In Alaska, failure to properly manage utilities can result in catastrophic damage, including frozen pipes, water leaks, and heating failures.

 

 

One missed step in shutting down utilities could mean thousands of dollars in repairs.

 

 

Barbara's Perspective:

One of the biggest challenges we face isn't just turning utilities on or off—it's tracking down who actually has the authority to make those changes. We once had a property where the last known account holder had passed away, and no one knew how to access the account. It took coordination with local law enforcement for a wellness check, state agencies to confirm next of kin, and the utility company to find a legal path forward. These situations require patience, persistence, and deep knowledge of local resources—but that's what we do to ensure every property is properly managed.

A client once told me they had a property sit vacant for two weeks in December without heat. When they finally got the utilities turned back on, they found every pipe in the house had burst. What could have been a simple winterization turned into a full-scale rehab. That's why we handle utility coordination the right way—before there's a problem.

– Barbara Huntley

How Huntley & Associates Manages Utilities

1. Utility Status Assessment – Checking existing services and addressing any urgent needs.
2. Coordination with Service Providers – Managing timelines with electric, water, and fuel companies.
3. Winterization & Property Protection – Ensuring properties are safeguarded against extreme temperatures.
4. Ongoing Monitoring – Keeping asset managers updated on utility status and necessary actions.

 

Avoid Costly Mistakes with Expert Utility Management

Don't let improper utility handling lead to unnecessary expenses. Huntley & Associates ensures that every REO property is managed with care, preventing costly damages before they happen.