Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Pennsylvania

Re: water bill

I think you've answered your own question. You are responsible for those charges that are detailed in the lease. I think that if the lease says that you pay the water bill, and you don't, and then the water company adds on a late fee that you'd be responsible for paying it.

However, if the landlord pays the bill and sends you an invoice which you are late in paying, and the lease or no other document indicates that there is a late fee, then I don't believe that, under normal circumstances, you'd have to pay a late fee to the landlord.

Of course, if the landlord had to go to court to get a judgment on unpaid bills such as this, court costs, collection fees, etc., could be added as a part of that process.

Re: water bill

Look to the the lease for the "Agreement". If it states you shall be responsible for utilities then it is your responsibility. If such is not mentioned then you are not responsible. Keep in mind that your landlord will likely raise you rent to "adequately compensate" once your lease is up.