Canceling your Washington Gas service doesn’t have to be a complicated process. Whether you’re moving to a new location or simply don’t require gas service anymore, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to cancel your Washington Gas service efficiently. We’ll cover everything from the different methods of cancellation to important considerations and potential fees you should be aware of.
Methods to Cancel Washington Gas Service
1. Canceling by Phone
The most direct and commonly used method to cancel your Washington Gas service is by phone. Here’s how to do it:
- Call the Washington Gas customer service number at 844-927-4427 (or 844-WASHGAS).
- Request to speak with a customer service representative.
- Provide your account number and other necessary customer details for verification.
- Inform the representative that you want to cancel your service.
- Specify the date you want the service to be discontinued.
Pro Tip: Have your account information ready before making the call to streamline the process.
2. Initiating Cancellation Online
While the primary method is through a phone call, you can start the process online:
- Visit the Washington Gas website.
- Navigate to the “Account Services” tab.
- Find and click on the “Stop Service” tab.
- Fill out the required fields, which typically include:
- Your account number
- Service address
- Desired discontinuation date
- Contact information
- Submit the request.
Note: Even if you initiate the process online, you may still receive a follow-up call to finalize the cancellation.
Important Considerations When Canceling
Advance Notice
It’s crucial to provide sufficient notice when canceling your service. Washington Gas typically requires at least 48 hours of advance notice, excluding weekends and holidays. This allows them to schedule a final meter reading and process your request properly.
Final Billing and Meter Reading
When you request to stop service, Washington Gas will:
- Schedule a final meter reading.
- Generate a final bill based on this reading.
- Charge you for any outstanding balance and gas used up to the point of service termination.
Additional Fees and Charges
While there’s no specific mention of a termination fee for stopping Washington Gas service, be aware of the following potential charges:
- Service Initiation Fee: If you plan to restart service in the future, you’ll need to pay a service initiation fee ranging from $25 to $68, depending on whether gas is flowing at the time of initiation.
- Early Contract Cancellation Fee: If you’re under a contract and choose to cancel early, there may be an associated fee. Check your contract or contact customer service for specifics.
- Outstanding Balances: Any unpaid balances, late fees, or other charges must be settled before the service is officially terminated.
Temporary Service Interruption for Construction or Maintenance
If you need to stop gas service temporarily, the process differs from a permanent cancellation:
- Contact Washington Gas: Inform them about the need for a temporary disconnection.
- Request Capping: The utility company can cap the gas supply at the meter, which is reversible.
- Arrange Reconnection: When ready to resume service, contact Washington Gas to schedule a reconnection.
Important: Let professionals handle the reconnection to ensure all safety protocols are followed.
Final Steps and Verification
After requesting cancellation, it’s wise to:
- Ask for a confirmation number or email for your records.
- Follow up if you don’t receive a final bill within a reasonable timeframe.
- Ensure your account balance is settled to avoid any future complications.
Conclusion
Canceling your Washington Gas service is a straightforward process when you know the steps to follow. Whether you choose to cancel by phone or initiate the process online, being prepared with your account information and understanding potential fees will make the experience smoother. Remember to provide adequate notice and consider any temporary disconnection needs for construction or maintenance. By following this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to handle the cancellation process efficiently and effectively.
