Energy theft is dangerous and illegal. It could cost you money, time and loss of tenants. To minimize the risk of property damage, injury or death, DTE Energy has adopted a zero tolerance policy towards energy theft.

Michigan's Energy Theft Legislation

Michigan has a number of laws to address theft of electricity and natural gas. These laws penalize individuals who steal, sell or transfer energy illegally. Under Michigan law, landlords will be held responsible for energy theft on their property.  State bill 1310, enacted into law in July 2010, carries these provisions:

• Holds landlords accountable for utility charges when theft has occurred on their property
• Landlord must prove ownership, identify the tenant and pay all outstanding bills
• Lock down of service and reconnection fees apply
• Service will not be automatically reconnected for a new tenant

Getting Service Restored at your Property

When energy theft occurs at a location, any customer seeking to restore service at that address - even if it is a new tenant or owner - will be required to provide Positive ID (see below) and proof of ownership or tenancy. If your services have been disconnected, do not attempt to reconnect your own service. If your electric and/or gas meter is disconnected, do not tamper with the meter. Instead, contact our Revenue Protection Dept. at 800.441.6698 for assistance in reconnecting your service.

Positive ID is verified through one or more of the following:

• Social Security card ( or official and authentic papers with SSN, such as W-2 form)
• Driver's License or State ID
• Passport, Work Visa and Drivers License or State ID
• Military ID
• Employer Identification Number/Tax ID Number (for a business)

Proof of tenancy:

• Notarized Rental Affidavit or Rental Lease (signed by both landlord and Tenant)

Proof of ownership:

• Lease and/or Final Judgment Eviction Documentation (previous & current tenant information)
• Registered Warranty Deed
• Closing Package
• Sheriff Deed with Bill of Sale
• Registered Quit Claim
• Registered Land Contract
• Business Ownership Documents (Articles of Inc., DBA, LLC.)

Other acceptable authentic pieces of documentation to support your claim will be accepted when applicable.

• Police Report- squatters report
• Probate Document/Death Certificate
• Divorce Decree
• Power of Attorney Paper
• Signed Affidavit/Letter of Responsibility (Billing time frame to be included on affidavit)