Can My Landlord Make Me Pay the Water Bill?

Paying utilities like water, gas, and electric is a common issue that comes up between landlords and tenants. As a renter, you may be wondering if your landlord can pass on the cost of water service and make you cover the bill. Here’s what you need to know about utility responsibilities and your rights when it comes to paying for water as a tenant.

What the Lease Says

The first place to check is your lease agreement. This contract between you and your landlord spells out the division of utility payments. Here are some scenarios:

• Water included – If your lease states that water is included in the rent, the landlord foots the entire bill.

• Tenant pays water – The lease may stipulate you are responsible for water charges. This allows the landlord to pass the cost onto you.

• No mention of water – If the lease doesn’t address water billing, default rules in your state will determine who pays.

Always review your lease thoroughly so you understand utility payment responsibilities from the start. If there are discrepancies later on, the lease agreement protects your rights.

Local and State Laws

Beyond the lease, local ordinances and state laws provide further guidance on handling water bills. Here are some key regulations in different areas:

• NYC – Landlords pay water bills as part of property taxes. They can only pass on charges in rare cases, like in multi-family buildings with submeters.

• California – Unless stated in the lease, landlords are generally responsible for providing and paying for water service.

• Florida – If not specified in the lease, landlords must provide adequate water but can make tenants pay for usage.

• Texas – Landlords must supply drinkable water and pay bills unless the lease requires tenants to cover water costs.

Consult your local tenant resources to learn about utilities rules in your state and city. This can protect you from unfair billing practices.

Submetering and Allocation

In buildings without individual water meters, landlords often pass on costs using submetering or allocation methods:

• Submetering – Shared building meter charges are divided based on unit-specific submeters. You pay for exactly what you use.

• Allocation – The landlord splits the total bill based on a formula, such as 50% divided by unit or by occupancy numbers. This is a less exact system.

If your landlord uses one of these methods, closely review bills to ensure your portion matches your actual usage. Keep track of submeter readings or look for mistakes in the allocation formula.

Payment and Reimbursement Scenarios

There are a few possible ways your landlord may seek water bill reimbursement:

• You pay the water company directly. This usually only occurs if the service is entirely under your name.

• The landlord bills you each month for water along with rent. Submeters allow accurate billing for actual use. Without submeters, billing could be unfairly inflated.

• The landlord prepays the water bill then asks for reimbursement. Make sure any reimbursement request reflects your proper share based on lease terms, law, and usage.

• The water bill is baked into monthly rent charges. This simplifies payment but reduces accountability for high usage.

When You Can Dispute Water Charges

As a tenant, you have rights against unfair water billing practices. Here are some scenarios where you may want to dispute charges:

• You’re being billed for water but your lease includes it in rent.

• Your reimbursement amount exceeds the portion specified in your lease.

• The landlord cannot provide proof of actual water costs.

• Your allocated portion seems disproportionate to your unit size or occupancy.

• The landlord cannot verify submeter readings when questioned.

Document any disputes carefully and contact your local housing authority if issues persist. With proof and the law on your side, you can avoid paying unreasonable bills.

Tips for Conserving Water

Avoid wasting water if you pay bills directly. Follow these tips:

• Report any leaks to your landlord immediately.

• Install low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators.

• Run full loads in the dishwasher and washing machine.

• Take short showers instead of baths.

• Turn off the faucet while brushing teeth.

• Water plants efficiently with timers.

• Fix any dripping taps right away.

Saving water lowers your usage costs while helping the environment. And as a tenant, you help avoid higher bills being passed on by your landlord in the future.

When it comes to water bills, carefully read your lease and understand both your rights and responsibilities. Pay attention to local utility laws as well. With preparation and efficient water use, you can avoid any unwanted surprises on cost-sharing with your landlord.