Who Pays for Water, Trash, and Other Utilities in U.S. Rentals?

Answer

Landlords and tenants often wonder which utilities each party should cover. Clarifying payment responsibilities early prevents disputes and ensures smooth move-ins.

In most U.S. leases, tenants pay for electricity, natural gas, and internet or cable. Landlords commonly include utilities that serve the entire building or community:

• Water and sewer: If the property uses a master meter, landlords often cover the bill (average monthly cost: $50–$70) and may prorate charges when sub-metering isn’t available.
• Trash and recycling: Many leases bundle municipal trash fees (typically $15–$25/month) into rent or charge them as a separate flat fee.
• Common area electricity: Electricity for hallways, exterior lights, elevators, and pool pumps usually sits with the landlord.
• Lawn care and landscaping: When a property includes shared green spaces, landlords hire services and factor those costs into rent.

Some landlords also offer paid utilities as an amenity to attract tenants, for example:

• Wi-Fi included: A few apartment communities bundle basic internet or cable to simplify billing.
• Heating in colder climates: In regions where gas heat is central (e.g., New England), landlords sometimes cover heating costs and recover them through slightly higher base rent.

Lease terms vary by state and municipality. For example, California landlords must provide running water, hot water, and heating at no extra charge under the “warranty of habitability,” while Florida law allows landlords to pass stormwater utility fees to tenants if spelled out in the lease.

Before signing any lease, tenants are recommended to:

• Verify which utilities appear on the rental agreement.
• Ask for average monthly utility bills or statements.
• Check local rules on sub-metering or utility billing (see HUD’s Tenant Utility Guide for sample clauses).

Final thought: Utility responsibilities can vary widely. It’s advisable to review your lease carefully and consult a licensed property manager or real estate attorney if any terms seem unclear.