Landlord’s Guide to Handling Maliciously High Water Bills and Lease Violations

Introduction

High water bills can be a frustrating and costly issue for landlords. When a tenant maliciously inflates the water bill, this is considered a clear breach of the lease agreement. This article provides landlords with guidance on how to address this issue effectively and maintain compliance with lease terms.

Understanding the Problem

First, it's essential to rule out any legitimate causes for high water usage, such as leaking pipes. Even minor leaks can significantly increase the water bill. If a landlord suspects a slab leak or other line leak, they should conduct thorough inspections and have the necessary repairs done promptly.

One landlord's daily water meter check and timing of water usage suggest they are not just inspecting for leaks but also attempting to shift the blame to their tenants. This behavior, often referred to as slumlording, is illegal and can have serious consequences. Code Enforcement may intervene if a landlord is found to be intentionally reducing water usage and causing financial strain on tenants.

Communicating with the Tenant

Approach the situation by communicating openly with the tenant. Start by having a calm and professional conversation to understand their perspective. Many disputes arise from misunderstandings or miscommunication. If it appears that the tenant is maliciously running up the water bill, you can:

Bill the tenant for the excess water usage. Request that the tenant vacate the property if they are overusing resources to an extent that is unreasonable and disruptive.

Legal Action and Eviction Procedures

If the tenant continues to disregard the lease terms and contribute to excessive water usage, additional actions may be necessary. Here's how landlords can take further steps:

Lease Violations and Excessive Water Usage

The lease should clearly state that the landlord is responsible for paying water expenses. Tenant behavior that violates this agreement can lead to legal action. As a landlord, you should:

Prove your allegations by presenting detailed water bills from previous and current tenants to a magistrate during an eviction hearing. Prepare a formal eviction notice indicating the lease violation and the potential consequences if the situation is not rectified.

Eviction and Its Consequences

Eviction proceedings can be a last resort but are necessary if a tenant repeatedly violates lease terms. Here's what to expect:

The landlord must provide proof of the violation, which is typically in the form of bill records. The tenant can be required to vacate the premises due to the breach of the lease agreement. Future rental opportunities may be negatively impacted if the landlord includes a bad record of the tenant, such as non-payment or lease violation.

Conclusion

Handling a tenant who maliciously inflates the water bill requires a strategic and legal approach. By taking the steps outlined above, landlords can address the issue effectively and protect their financial interests. Remember, communication, documentation, and adherence to legal procedures are key to resolving disputes and maintaining a legal lease agreement.

By following these guidelines, landlords can ensure that they are acting within their rights and protecting their investment in the property.