RUBS Utility Billing Explained for Colorado Renters

Understanding your rights when it comes to utilities is a big part of renting in Colorado. If your lease mentions RUBS billing (Ratio Utility Billing System), you might be wondering how it works, whether it’s allowed, and what you can do if you have concerns. This guide explains RUBS utility billing in Colorado, what state law says, and the steps renters can take if something seems unfair—all in plain language.

What is RUBS Utility Billing?

RUBS stands for Ratio Utility Billing System. Instead of each unit having its own meters for things like water, trash, or sewer, the landlord divides the total building’s bill among tenants based on formulas. Factors can include the number of people in each unit, the square footage, or the number of bedrooms.

Common examples of RUBS expenses in Colorado rentals include:

• Water and sewer charges
• Trash and recycling fees
• Sometimes gas or common-area electricity (not your own use)

If your lease says you’ll pay utilities through RUBS, it should spell out how those costs are calculated and what services are included.

Is RUBS Billing Legal in Colorado?

Colorado law does not prohibit the use of RUBS utility billing. However, Colorado Revised Statutes (C.R.S.) Section 38-12 and the Colorado Residential Tenants Health and Safety Act require landlords to be transparent about all charges, including utilities, in your rental agreement.^[1]

By law, your lease should:

• Clearly describe any RUBS formula or method used to share costs
• List which utilities or services are billed this way
• Specify if the landlord or a third-party billing company is handling charges

Any changes to how RUBS is calculated generally require written notice and agreement between you and your landlord.

Key Resource:

• The main tribunal for landlord-tenant issues is the Colorado County Court - Civil Division. This court handles residential tenancy disputes and can address utility billing disagreements.

Common Concerns with RUBS in Colorado Rentals

Many renters have questions about fairness and transparency with RUBS billing. Some common issues include:

• RUBS charges aren’t explained clearly in the lease
• Bills seem much higher than your actual usage
• Disputes over what is considered a "utility" vs. a landlord’s property expense

Tip: If you’re unsure about a new or increased RUBS charge, ask your landlord for a copy of the actual utility bill and an explanation of the formula used.

What to Do If You Have a RUBS Billing Dispute

If you think your utility bills via RUBS are unfair or not clearly explained, there are steps you can take.

• Request a written breakdown from your landlord or property manager showing how your share was calculated
• If the lease isn’t clear, or you believe you’re being overcharged, communicate in writing (email or letter) and keep a copy
• If there’s no resolution, you have the right to file a complaint or bring a small claims case in Colorado County Court

Official Colorado Forms for Renters

• JDF 250 – Complaint Under Simplified Civil Procedure (Small Claims)
  • When to use: If you want to formally dispute excessive, unfair, or improperly calculated RUBS utility charges and cannot resolve this with your landlord.
  • Step-by-step usage: Fill out the complaint form, explain your situation, attach any evidence (copies of bills, lease agreement), and file it with your local Colorado County Court. The process is explained in detail on the official form here.
• JDF 98 – Notice to Landlord of Problem and Demand for Corrective Action
  • When to use: If your landlord refuses to provide utility billing details or does not respond to written requests about RUBS billing clarity.
  • How to use: Send this completed form to your landlord requesting action. The official form is available here.

Your Rights as a Colorado Renter

Your landlord cannot add utility charges that are not specified in your lease or use vague language. Colorado’s rental laws require full transparency under the Colorado Revised Statutes, Section 38-12.^[2] Any utility charge—including RUBS—must be:

• Detailed in writing
• Calculable and not arbitrary
• Consistent with your signed lease terms

FAQ: RUBS Billing in Colorado Rentals

1. Is RUBS billing always allowed in Colorado?
   Landlords may use RUBS if it is clearly stated in your written lease. Unclear or retroactive RUBS charges may be challenged.
2. Can my landlord change how RUBS is calculated mid-lease?
   Not without your consent. Any change to the RUBS formula requires notice and a written lease amendment signed by both parties.
3. What if my RUBS utility bill seems too high?
   Request a copy of the actual master utility bill and an explanation of the formula. If concerns remain, you can use the JDF 98 form or file a small claims complaint using JDF 250.
4. Which government office handles rental utility disputes in Colorado?
   The Colorado County Court Civil Division addresses small claims and landlord-tenant issues, including utility billing disputes.
5. Where can I find official tenant laws about utilities?
   Colorado’s main laws are in Colorado Revised Statutes Section 38-12. See the official legislation for details.

Key Takeaways

• RUBS utility billing is legal in Colorado if described in your lease and calculated transparently.
• You have a right to request an explanation and supporting documents for any RUBS charges.
• Official forms and the County Court provide options for formal complaint if negotiation fails.

Being aware of your rights helps you feel confident and protected as a renter dealing with utility billing issues.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Colorado Division of Housing: Renter Rights Resources – Official guidance, FAQs, and contact numbers
• Colorado Judicial Branch (County Courts) – File official forms, locate your court, and view small claims information
• Colorado Housing Connects – Free tenant counseling and dispute resolution

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1. See Colorado Revised Statutes Section 38-12 (Landlord and Tenant)
2. Colorado Division of Housing: Renter Rights Overview

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