Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in New York

I rent a one family house with one meter for gas and electricity. My bill is much higher since my landlady rented studio apartment downstairs several months ago. She did tell me she eventually would. When I first moved in January 2010 she reduced $100.00 dollars off the rent to cover for extra usage of electricity when a tenant would be in the studio apartment in the basement of our house. Since this recent tenant moved in my bill has increased a lot and I complaint to her and this summer she again reduced it to $50.00. I find that it still doesn't cover the expense.
Nothing is in writing just a verbal agreement. Although I did have a lease that indicated that she would be obligated to help me if bill went over $300 but that has expired Jan. 2012.
What are my tenants rights at this point? Should I have Con Ed do an investigation and if so can she evict myself and my 3 children because I did that? I am currently unemployed which makes installment payment difficult. Please advise. I already spoke to landlady and she refused to help me further. My usual electrical bill is about $200 and has increased to $600.00. I free the electricity bill will continue to increase. Thank you so much!

Asked on 9/27/12, 2:18 pm

Paula McGill Attorney at Law

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Yes, contact Con Ed. If the utility company finds the house should have separate meters, the landlord will be fined, among other things.

Also licensed in New York.

Answered on 10/03/12, 1:34 am

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