Around here it is common practice to winterize homes. As far as turning everything on I am talking that they already have utilities but the WH, Heater, is off at the unit. All the faucets are open to drain the water down and an anti freezing agent put into the toilets and traps and the electric is off at the main breaker.

This is where the discussion begins with so many inspectors as not turning on anything or lighting anything. Again, very common practice around here. Sometimes they will have the company that winterizes the home turn it all back on and sometimes we will turn it all on and the winterizing company re winterizes it again.

As far as turning water on at the meter it was not turned off by the city so you are not breaking any rules or laws.

If there is a problem when turning things back on they (the listing company) sends someone out to take care of the problem.

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Ted Menelly
Castle Home Inspection Services
www.inspectmycastle.com