MHN Interview: The Legal Side of Utility Management with NWP’s Deputy General Counsel

By Jessica Fiur, News Editor

Costa Mesa, Calif.—NWP Services Corporation, a provider of utility management, resident and property-operation services, recently appointed W. Michael Semko to deputy general counsel. MHN talks with Semko about his new position and his thoughts on utility management.

MHN: Describe your new role.

Semko: As deputy general counsel, I’ll be advising NWP on corporate and regulatory legal issues as well as assisting with the growth and education of the company’s customer base. I’m excited to be joining NWP’s legal team and helping clients navigate the complex corporate and regulatory issues the multifamily industry faces.

MHN: What types of issues do you consider as you evaluate a property’s utility management strategy?

Semko: We individually assess the utility management strategy of each property and perform regular compliance audits to ensure each configuration maximizes a property’s return on investment while minimizing its legal risk. This valuable service, like any proper legal assessment, takes into account the individual characteristics of each apartment community and its relationship to all of the state, county, municipal, local and utility district rules and regulations.

MHN: What should property managers think about when selecting a utility management provider?

Semko: Due diligence is important in choosing a utility provider because of the legal consequences associated with managing properties large and small. Property managers and owners should look for providers that have seasoned attorneys well-versed in the utility regulatory issues that affect the industry. In addition to regulatory expertise, managers and owners should consider the quality of resident and property services a utility management service provider offers, as well as their ability to scale those services to meet individual property needs.

MHN: Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Semko: For more than 16 years, NWP has worked alongside its multifamily customers to save them money and time while keeping their residents happy. I’m just thrilled to join this strong legal team to help companies grow their bottom lines while making sure they are protected from risk and in compliance with the law.