Free Juice:

My aunt and uncle lived in a rundown apartment building in Manhattan. After a howling storm knocked out their power, ConEd ran an emergency powerline into their building. Months later, the tenants realized they were still getting free electricity. The emergency line had bypassed the meters, and ConEd seemed to have forgotten about it. A lawyer friend told them to set aside plenty to pay their back bills. “When they remember you, “he said,” they’ll send you an estimated back bill. Whatever they estimate, you’ll have to pay.”

Five years later their building was condemned. They had to move out (they had an apartment-wrecking party when they moved). The building was torn down. Evidence gone! They got six years of free electricity.