Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Pennsylvania

Tax Bill, Oil Bill and Fallen Tree?

In March 2006 we sold our condo and started renting an old home recently purchased by our realtor. We are responsible for the oil to heat the house however, we were told that the 500 gallon oil tank was already full and we probably wouldn't have to worry about oil for our first winter in the house. 2nd weekend in house the heat stops. We assume it's broken and call the landlord. She sends someone out. It's out of oil and another minor issue. guy leaves and says someone will be back. Delivery guy comes and fills up the tank. We asked several questions at the time..how much oil are you putting in, we dont want a full tank. We were told the instructions per my landlords phone call were to fill tank and send her the bill. 2 months pass and I get a bill in the mail with my husbands name. I call the oil company and the owner explains that the landlord refused to pay and put the bill in our name. First, is this legal to just put the bill in our name? We signed nothing, called no one. And I certainly would have never filled a 500 gallon tank just before summer. Thanks


Asked on 12/12/06, 8:55 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Matthew Kelly Kelly Law

Re: Tax Bill, Oil Bill and Fallen Tree?

What does the lease say regarding your responsibility. If the lease says you are responsible for heat hot water etc, then you need to pay it. If it says landlord will pay then send a copy to landlord with a copy of the lease explaining it is her responsibility. CC oil company. If the lease is silent (or worse you don't have a lease) than you may have a fight on your hands.

Good luck

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Answered on 12/12/06, 9:46 am


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