Short answer
Closing readings help allocate usage at a handover, especially when accounts change on different dates.
What to do next
Photograph meters with the date, confirm provider transfer dates and reconcile shared-service charges.
Save the current lease, dated messages, receipts and any property-specific evidence together. A useful record shows what happened, when it happened and which document or rule you relied on.
Check the source
Rules may change and the right answer can depend on the home, city, lease and timing. Review the current official material before signing, charging a fee, sending a notice or making a legal decision.
Texas State Law Library — Landlord/Tenant Law ↗
Put it into your workflow
A repeatable process turns a one-time answer into a reliable rental record. Capture the action in your property file, assign a follow-up date if needed and make sure any tenant communication matches the signed agreement.
Photograph meters with the date, confirm provider transfer dates and reconcile shared-service charges.
General information for U.S. landlords, with a Texas focus. This guide is not legal, tax or accounting advice. Consult a qualified professional for your situation.