The electric service to any premises may be disconnected upon failure to pay the electric charge for the premises. Service shall not be resumed until all due bills plus a connection charge are paid. The electric charge shall constitute an indebtedness of the owner of the premises as well as the occupant thereof who receives electric service, and any claim for unpaid rates or charges which have been properly billed to the occupant of the premises as part of the utility bill for electric services may be thereafter collected in a civil action brought against the occupant or the owner of the premises, or both.