What Is Form 22K — Utilities Addendum in Washington Real Estate?
Form 22K is the Utilities Addendum used in Washington real estate transactions to allow buyers to verify that utility services are available and functioning at a property.
This addendum gives buyers the opportunity to confirm that essential utilities—such as electricity, natural gas, water, and other services—are properly connected and available to the property before completing the purchase.
Form 22K is often used when there is uncertainty about utility availability, particularly for rural properties, vacant land, or homes that may require new utility connections.
The addendum is typically attached to the Purchase and Sale Agreement (Form 21) and becomes part of the contract once mutual acceptance occurs.
Video: Form 22K Utilities Addendum Explained
Why the Utilities Addendum Is Used
Utility availability is critical for any property. Buyers want to confirm the home has reliable access to essential services before closing.
Form 22K allows buyers to verify:
- electrical service availability
- natural gas or propane access
- water service availability
- other necessary utility connections
If utilities are not available or require upgrades, buyers can evaluate the cost and feasibility before moving forward with the purchase.
What the Utilities Review May Include
When Form 22K is included in the contract, buyers may investigate several utility-related issues.
Utility service confirmation
Confirming the property has active electrical, gas, or water connections.
Utility provider verification
Contacting local utility providers to confirm service availability.
Connection requirements
Determining whether upgrades or new connections are required.
Cost evaluation
Understanding any costs required to bring utilities to the property.
These steps help buyers avoid unexpected infrastructure costs after closing.
When the Utilities Addendum Is Most Common
Form 22K is most commonly used when:
- purchasing rural property
- buying land intended for future construction
- purchasing homes where utility connections are uncertain
- properties where service upgrades may be required
In these cases, verifying utilities becomes an important part of the due diligence process.
What Happens If Utilities Are Not Available
If the buyer discovers utilities are unavailable or prohibitively expensive to install, the buyer may have options depending on the contract terms.
Possible outcomes include:
- negotiating repairs or improvements
- requesting seller credits
- terminating the contract if the property cannot be served by necessary utilities
These decisions typically occur during the contingency period established in the addendum.
Why Form 22K Matters in Washington Real Estate
Utility access is essential to making a property usable and livable.
Form 22K provides a clear process for buyers to confirm that the property has access to the services needed for everyday living or development.
This due diligence helps prevent unexpected costs and protects buyers when evaluating properties with uncertain infrastructure.
You can explore the full library of Washington real estate process explanations here.
Bottom Line
Form 22K is the Utilities Addendum used in Washington real estate contracts to allow buyers to verify that essential utility services are available to a property before completing the purchase.
FAQ
What is Form 22K in Washington real estate?
Form 22K is the Utilities Addendum used to allow buyers to verify the availability and functionality of essential utility services at a property.
What utilities are typically verified with Form 22K?
Utilities commonly reviewed include electricity, natural gas, water service, and other essential utility connections.
When is the Utilities Addendum used?
It is commonly used for rural properties, vacant land, or homes where utility connections may be uncertain.
Can a buyer cancel a contract if utilities are unavailable?
Depending on the contract terms, buyers may negotiate solutions or terminate the agreement if utilities cannot be provided.
Is Form 22K required in every Washington transaction?
No. The Utilities Addendum is optional and used when utility availability requires verification.