can real estate lawyers in ontario still transfer utilities on the home owners' behalf? our lawyer's says no

Answer 1

Utilities companies in Ontario have policies in place by which customers must come in their offices personally to transfer over utilities. This is due to Canada's Privacy Information Policy. You will need to show ID when requesting new service.
When you call these companies you will be asked for identification before proceeding with your inquiries. Most utility companies prewarn you when calling in saying "this call may be recorded" - you will asked for your name, address, phone number and account information. Many companies will also ask for your specific name to make sure that the account is listed in your name - if you are not the name listed they will not supply any information to you - same as your lawyer trying to transfer the utilities.

Before Canada's Privacy Information law came into effect many lawyers did transfer utilities as a courtesy service to their clients.

Hopefully this answers your question.

Good Luck

Answer 2

If your lawyer is telling you that, I'd take his advice and do it myself.