View Full Version : Can NYC owner charge for hot water?
ololodi
Jan 9, 2009, 02:56 PM
My friend just moved into an apartment in Queens New York. Now in addition to the rent, the landlord says she has to pay $100 per month for hot water and another $100 per month for gas. I know gas and electric may not be included with the rent, but I thought hot water could not be billed separately for apartment dwellers.
Ololodi
twinkiedooter
Jan 9, 2009, 03:11 PM
If the signed lease does not state the additional charges the landlord cannot just arbitrarily charge for this.
stevetcg
Jan 10, 2009, 06:14 AM
If it is not in the lease, she cannot be charged for water unless the apartment is metered seperatly.
Fr_Chuck
Jan 10, 2009, 06:53 AM
A few questions, is this a rent controlled apartment ?
But water ( in general) is not furnished with many apartments, I know I have to pay a exta 30 dollars a month for water where I am at. But if the hot water and water in general is not individual but it is possible they can do this. If you do not like the pricing, merely do not take this apartment
JudyKayTee
Jan 10, 2009, 07:27 AM
If it is not in the lease, she cannot be charged for water unless the apartment is metered seperatly.
Not so in NY - in NY the landlord can charge a flat fee for water, a percentage of the water bill, does not need a separate meter. Obviously another one of those "different from State to State" deals.
I have a five unit and split the water bill - one meter. Of course, it's one of the rental terms. The landlord also can't suddenly spring this (or any other) new charge, either. Tenant could break the lease (if there is a lease) or simply move if there is no lease.
stevetcg
Jan 10, 2009, 07:33 AM
Not so in NY - in NY the landlord can charge a flat fee for water, a percentage of the water bill, does not need a separate meter. Obviously another one of those "different from State to State" deals.
I have a five unit and split the water bill - one meter. Of course, it's one of the rental terms. The landlord also can't suddenly spring this (or any other) new charge, either. Tenant could break the lease (if there is a lease) or simply move if there is no lease.
And that's the point... if its in the lease. If its in the lease they can do most anything... since you already agreed to it in writing. :)