SearchMad about a meter
Juliet asks:
(updated on Wednesday, July 13th 2011)
Our Experts Answer:
It is legal to rent out premises where there is no separate metering for utilities. However, sharing charges with other premises can cause difficulties when determining the cost the tenant is responsible for. Under the Residential Tenancies Act 1986, tenants are responsible for charges for electricity supplied to the premises, unless the tenancy agreement says the charges are payable by the landlord.
I suggest that you try to reach an agreement with your landlord about a standard formula or way the charges will be divided. If you are unable to reach an agreement with your landlord you could apply to the Tenancy Tribunal to have the matter resolved.
To discuss your situation further, or for information about who is responsible for shared costs, you can visit the Department of Building and Housing website (www.dbh.govt.nz), or call 0800 TENANCY (0800 836 262).
Please note that for tenancies that commenced after 1 October 2010 the rules relating to charges for outgoings have changed. For more information please visit http://www.dbh.govt.nz/tenancy-az-n-q.
The Department of Building and Housing provides information and guidance on building law and compliance, services including weathertight homes, and advice for tenants and landlords.
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