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Topic: Texas state law for electric, gas, water, and phone utilitiesSource: Texas Legislature Official WebsiteWho Enforces It: Public Utility Commission of TexasCost to Read: FreeReading Time: Varies — read only the section that fits your issue
The Texas Utilities Code is the state law that covers electric, natural gas, water, and telecom utilities across Texas. It spells out your rights as a customer — from accurate billing to notice before your service gets cut off. The full text is free to read anytime on the official Texas Legislature website.
The Texas Utilities Code is organized into six main titles. Title 1 covers definitions and general purposes. Title 2 — called the Public Utility Regulatory Act, or PURA — governs electric and telecom utilities and gives the PUCT the authority to protect customers. Title 3 handles natural gas under the Gas Utility Regulatory Act. Title 4 focuses on your rights as a utility customer, including deposits, metering, and service delivery. Titles 5 and 6 cover utility facility operations and wind and private power agreements. The code also lays out rules for billing accuracy, required notice before disconnection, and how to dispute a charge or service decision with your utility company or the PUCT.
Start by identifying which type of utility your issue involves — electric, gas, water, or telecom. Then go to the matching title in the code. Title 4 is a good first stop for everyday customer concerns like deposits or billing disputes. Read the relevant section, then use what you find to support a call or written complaint to your utility provider or the PUCT. You don't need a lawyer to read this law — it's written for the public and free to access.
No fixed date
Not location-specific
Your utility bill, disconnection notices, and deposit requirements are all shaped by this code. If you've ever wondered why your provider must give you advance notice before shutting off service, or what rules apply to rate changes, the answer is here. Houston-area residents dealing with electricity concerns can also connect with the PUCT, which has a formal complaint process built around the rights this code establishes.
If your utility bill looks wrong, your service was disconnected without warning, or you want to know the rules your provider must follow, this code is your go-to reference. It's the same law the Public Utility Commission of Texas — the PUCT — uses to protect consumers statewide. Knowing what the law says puts you in a stronger position when something goes wrong.
