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Why are utilities still on in abandoned buildings A few explanations behind this.

If you’ve spent time on social media platforms like YouTube, Facebook, or TikTok, you may have come across urban explorers venturing into abandoned homes, malls, and office buildings. In some cases, these structures appear untouched for years—paint peeling, ceilings sagging, and debris strewn about. Yet amid the decay, a curious detail often emerges: the lights still work, televisions hum with cable programming, and other utilities remain fully operational.

So why are utilities still running in buildings that look like they haven’t been occupied for years—sometimes even decades?

While it is not impossible to provide a definitive answer for every property, there are several plausible and common reasons utilities may still be active in seemingly abandoned or vacant structures.

1. Shared Utility Infrastructure

In multi-unit buildings or complexes, utilities may be connected across several units or structures. Turning off electricity or water to one section might disrupt service to tenants or businesses still occupying other parts of the property.

Example: A 2020 report by Utility Dive highlighted challenges in managing shared meters in older commercial buildings, especially those undergoing phased redevelopment.

2. Fire Suppression and Building Safety Systems

In many jurisdictions, commercial buildings are required to maintain fire suppression systems even when they are unoccupied. These systems often rely on electric-powered pumps or alarm systems that must remain active.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), fire sprinkler systems in commercial properties must remain functional to comply with building codes and fire safety regulations (source).

3. Security and Vandalism Prevention

Keeping electricity on can be a deterrent to trespassers and vandals. Well-lit properties are less likely to attract criminal activity. Additionally, security systems, cameras, and motion detectors often require a continuous power supply.

The cost of replacing stolen copper wiring—often targeted in vacant buildings—can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, making preventive utility use a cost-effective decision.

The Urban Institute has discussed the rising trend of utility theft and vandalism in vacant buildings and its financial impact on cities (source).

4. Flood Prevention and Mold Control

Those with basements, sump pumps are essential to prevent flooding. Without electricity, sump pumps can fail, leading to water accumulation and potential mold growth. Mold remediation can be far more expensive than maintaining minimal utility service.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) warns that black mold caused by water damage can lead to serious health issues and costly remediation efforts (source).

5. HVAC running keeps a more controlled climate

Running the HVAC system in a vacant building is essential to maintain a controlled indoor climate. During winter, keeping the temperature above freezing helps prevent pipes from bursting due to freezing water. In the summer, the HVAC system reduces humidity and heat buildup, which can protect the building’s structure and interior from moisture damage, mold growth, and deterioration.

Final Thoughts

Maintaining utilities in a vacant building may seem counterintuitive, but it’s often a calculated decision by property owners. Whether due to regulatory compliance, structural interdependence, or basic preservation, these choices help mitigate long-term damage and financial loss.

For urban explorers and casual viewers, the presence of working lights in a collapsing building may seem like a haunting mystery. But for those in real estate, property management, and building maintenance, it’s often a practical necessity.