Despite the war, utility workers continue their service. In cities where battles are taking place, this work is heroic, pushing the limits of human capacity. To pay workers' salaries and have the resources for repairs, utility companies need funding. Both the state and local authorities emphasize that paying for utilities in these challenging times is a significant help and support for utility services.
We provide answers to the most common questions: do you need to pay utility bills during the war; what to do if your home is destroyed; and how to avoid falling for scams and other tricks.
Do I need to pay if I left my apartment?
Yes, it is a form of support for the country's utility front. Utility workers are performing their duties and deserve to be paid. The money is needed for repairs and to address the consequences of shelling.
What if I don’t have money or the ability to pay?
You can pay your bills when you are in a safe place and have the means to do so. It’s advisable to pay as soon as possible.
Can services be disconnected for non-payment?
During martial law, the government has prohibited disconnections for non-payment (or partial payment). However, you should not abuse the opportunity to avoid paying.
Will fines be charged for non-payment?
Penalties and fines are not charged. This does not mean you can avoid paying altogether, but rather that the debt will need to be settled in full after the victory.
What if I didn’t submit the meter readings?
Bills will be calculated based on norms or average consumption. Later, the readings will be updated and corrected. This means that even if you receive a bill based on average consumption, the amount can be adjusted in the following months after the actual meter readings are obtained.
Since March 2022, the charges for centralized water supply, hot water supply, and centralized sewage services will be calculated with a correction factor for consumers who have not submitted their water meter readings or do not have meters.
What if the property is damaged or bombed?
Currently, there is no mechanism that fully exempts residents from paying for utilities they have not received due to property and/or utility damage as a result of the war. A solution may be available soon.
Partial Compensation for Housing and Utility Services for Sheltering IDPs
If you have housed internally displaced persons (IDPs) in your apartment for free, the state will partially reimburse utility costs at a rate of 450 UAH per person per month, starting from March 2022.
You can receive this compensation as follows:
- Submit a statement of readiness to shelter people to the local government body (LGB) or through the "Prykhistok" website.
- Submit the relevant statement to the LGB when settling IDPs.
- Inform the LGB about the number of days and IDPs living in your home by the 5th of each month.
- Receive compensation.
Services that will be reimbursed:
– Gas supply
– Heating supply
– Water supply and sewage
– Purchase of firewood, pellets, and coal
