TOPIC: Utilities on/off??

If the utilities are off, offer to return to finish the inspection when they are on and charge accordingly. Hopefully this will satisfy the clients and make you more money...or get them to get the utilities on faster.

Time is money you have to have lights and water running for a good inspection.

Do the Inspection. You will be able to verify the utilities weren't on if necessary obviously thru the utility co. David, why would it be your problem if utilities are turned off. Do your inspection. They called you/hired you just do it. Present your quality inspection you are capable of. Bill them.
(Paste from your post)How are others handling calls for vacant homes with utilities off?
It's not your problem. If they bitch about the inspection having been done w/o the utillities you can either take the cha ching route (charge for return insp.)or say hey i'll be back for that,(utilities items) to check that out as part of your inspection. Charge for the return trip, but don't wait for them for the original trip if they have scheduled you. It's there dime and your time.

Soon as the inspection is booked, I send a pdf copy of the contract with the following disclaimer as part of my cover letter.

"It is important to note that the property must be ready for inspection.  All the utilities must be turned on and active at the end fixture (outlets, appliances or faucets).  It is the responsibility of the client to ensure this is done, whether through their agent or the listing agent.  Failure to have all utilities active will result in a second visit to the property to complete the inspection and an additional charge as noted in the attached contract."

No utilities, no inspection.  Many I do are 40-60 miles away and I really don't want to make the return trip......  and I sure won't do it without a fee and mileage.

Best to all.