Legal Question in Family Law in Massachusetts

We live in MA. Have co-owned our home for 10 years. Husband has chosen to move out. The space is more than I need so I have rented the basement for $1650./mo. which I split w my husband. He continues to pay half the mortgage, but doesn't feel he should pay half the utilities. If everything is 50/50, it seems like he should also pay 50% of the utilitiy bills. (Tennant does not pay for utilities.) My husband argues that I am able to enjoy the space of the house, so I should pay all the utilities, including the tennant's utilities. (It's all one utility bill.) What do you think?


Asked on 2/27/10, 1:33 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Suzana Urukalo Kajko, Weisman & Colasanti, LLP

Without knowing the rest of your financial situation (with regards to what your income is vs. what your husband's income is) I would suggest that he pay a portion of the utilities based on what the approximate cost of half of the renter's utilities are.

If you have any other questions or would like to consult with a family law attorney, I offer free consultations. I can be reached via email or 617-523-3200.

Thank you,

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Answered on 3/04/10, 1:48 pm
henry lebensbaum Law Offices of Henry Lebensbaum (978-749-3606)

You have posted this before.

I agree with your husband's position.

You enjoy the benefits of the home, there is a price to pay.

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Answered on 3/04/10, 2:03 pm


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