Arkansas Tenant Rights: Sub-Metering vs. Master Meter Utility Billing

If you’re renting in Arkansas, understanding how utilities are billed is important for managing your monthly budget and knowing your rights. Utilities may be billed by sub-metering (billing for what you actually use) or by a master meter (shared building-wide usage). As a renter in Arkansas, it’s important to know how these methods impact your bill and your legal protections.

How Utilities Are Billed: Sub-Metering vs. Master Meter

Utility billing in rental housing typically falls into one of two categories:

• Sub-Metering: Each rental unit has its own meter. Renters pay only for their individual usage.
• Master Meter: A single meter measures utility use for the entire building. Costs are divided among all units, sometimes based on unit size or a formula.

These methods affect both the accuracy of your bills and how conflicts over utility charges are resolved. Make sure your written lease clearly states which system is used and how you will be billed.

Arkansas Law: Tenant Rights for Utility Billing

In Arkansas, most tenant-landlord protections and obligations are set by the Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act.^[1] There are a few key points renters should know about utilities billing:

• Disclosure: Landlords must clearly state in your lease agreement how utilities will be billed and who is responsible for payments.
• Sub-Metering Protections: If your apartment has a sub-meter, your bill should reflect only your actual usage. You have the right to see your meter and the landlord’s calculation.
• Master Meter Situations: If your building uses a master meter, landlords can divide bills but must do so fairly and cannot profit from utility reselling.
• Regulated Utilities: If utilities are provided by a local utility company, they fall under the oversight of the Arkansas Public Service Commission (PSC).
• Disconnection and Shut-Offs: Landlords are prohibited from shutting off utilities to force a tenant to move out. It is illegal to disconnect utility service as a way of eviction.^[2]

Key Forms for Utility Issues in Arkansas

If you have concerns about utility billing or believe you’ve been unfairly charged, there are official forms and complaint processes available:

• Arkansas Public Service Commission Consumer Complaint Form
  • When to Use: If your landlord provides utilities through a regulated utility company and you believe you’ve been unfairly billed or threatened with wrongful disconnection.
  • How to Use: Complete the consumer complaint form and submit it online or by mail to the PSC. The PSC will review disputes between renters and regulated utility providers. Access the Arkansas PSC Consumer Complaint Form here.

Can Renters Request Utility Account Information?

Yes. If you pay for utilities directly, you can open an account in your own name and request billing records from the utility company. For sub-metered units billed through your landlord, you can request in writing to see your latest meter readings and billing calculations.

Filing a Utility Complaint: Step-by-Step

If you're a renter facing a utility dispute or believe your landlord violated your rights, follow these steps:

• Gather your lease and recent utility bills.
• Write a letter or email to your landlord explaining your concerns and request clarification or evidence (such as meter readings).
• If unresolved or dealing with a regulated utility, complete the Arkansas PSC Consumer Complaint Form.
• Submit the form online, by mail, or by phone. The Arkansas Public Service Commission will review your case.

It’s best to attempt informal resolution with your landlord first, but know that you have the right to escalate complaints for official review.

FAQ: Arkansas Utility Billing for Renters

1. What’s the difference between sub-metering and a master meter?
   Sub-metering bills you for the amount of utilities you actually use in your rental, while a master meter divides total building usage cost among all apartments, often by unit size or another formula.
2. Can my landlord disconnect my utilities if I’m behind on rent?
   No. Under Arkansas law, landlords cannot disconnect or threaten to disconnect utilities to force you to move or to collect unpaid rent.
3. What should I do if my landlord overcharges me for utilities?
   Document the overcharge, request clarification in writing, and if unresolved, file a complaint with the Arkansas Public Service Commission if the utility is regulated by them.
4. Do I have the right to see my actual meter readings?
   Yes, if your unit is sub-metered, you have the right to see your meter readings and understand how your charge was calculated.
5. Is there an official board or agency that helps renters with utility disputes?
   Yes, the Arkansas Public Service Commission reviews residential utility complaints when a regulated provider is involved. See their official website for more details.

Key Takeaways for Arkansas Renters

• Utility billing must be clear and fair under state law.
• Landlords cannot disconnect utilities as a way to evict tenants.
• You have the right to transparency in billing and can file a complaint with the PSC if needed.

Staying informed and keeping records protects your rights as a renter in Arkansas, whether your utilities are sub-metered or billed through a master meter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Arkansas Public Service Commission (PSC) – Consumer Information & Complaints
• Legal Aid of Arkansas – Free legal support for renters
• Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act – Complete tenancy laws

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1. Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (Arkansas Code Title 18, Subtitle 2, Chapter 17).
2. Arkansas Public Service Commission: Information for Consumers.

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