Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

landlord charging for ''excessive'' use of utilities

I have a month to month agreement in a duplex with 6

tenents. In my agreement, the utilities I am not

responsible for are water and trash. For one month the

water bill was substantially high. The landlord is

charging for the difference from what an average

monthly use would be. This doesn't seem fair and I'm

questioning the legality. I'm also afraid that if I don't

comply, the rent will be raised.


Asked on 4/05/02, 5:40 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Chris Johnson Christopher B. Johnson, Attorney at Law

Re: landlord charging for ''excessive'' use of utilities

The landlord has to inform you in writing of a change in your lease terms and at least 30 days in advance.

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Answered on 4/05/02, 6:05 pm
Victor Hobbs Victor E. Hobbs

Re: landlord charging for ''excessive'' use of utilities

Without looking at any written agreement you may have it sounds as if your landlord is violating the agreement with you. However, your concerns about rent increases and possibly eviction proceedings are possible reprocussions if you fail to pay the increase in the water bill. It's called a free market economy. Since you are not burdened with a long term lease you are potentially subject to kind of violation of the agreement with the landlord.

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Answered on 4/05/02, 6:19 pm


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