I recently moved out of an rental house and I was charged for the toilet spontaneously overflowing. Is this reasonable and if so, what are the details behind it happening. Also, what happens to paper towels that are flushed down the toilet? Do they dissolve? If so, how long does that take?

Nothing but toilet paper should ever be flushed down a toilet... not tissues, Certainly never paper towels, not tampons, not Sanitary pads... nothing but toilet paper.. They don't disolve...

They do not disolve... and WILL plug up a drain. That is common sense to most adults.

If those were found in a drain that was plugged up you could and should be charged for all costs to unplug it.. and any and all damages that might result.

I was charged for the toilet spontaneously overflowing. Is this reasonable and if so, what are the details behind it happening
Not enough details to answer that question, but if you left your unit with a blockage you are responsible.

I was charged for the toilet spontaneously overflowing. Is this reasonable and if so, what are the details behind it happening paper towels to bunch up in the toilet trap and you have a blockage. Nothing but human waste should ever be flushed down a toilet. Good luck, Tom

Was there a floor above this bathroom?