Connecticut Rules on Pass-Through Utility Charges in Mobile Home Parks

If you live in a mobile home or manufactured housing park in Connecticut, you may have questions about what utility charges your park owner can require. Understanding pass-through utility charges—when a landlord bills you separately for utilities the park receives—helps protect your rights and budget. This article explores key laws, forms, and renter protections on this issue in Connecticut.

What Are Pass-Through Utility Charges?

Pass-through utility charges refer to when a park owner (landlord) charges residents for utility costs (like water, sewer, electric, or gas) that they receive from a public utility and „pass through“ to renters, often based on metered use. In Connecticut, special rules apply to how these charges are calculated and disclosed in mobile manufactured home parks.

Are Pass-Through Utility Charges Allowed in Connecticut Mobile Home Parks?

Yes, but with important protections for tenants. Under the Connecticut General Statutes Chapter 412: Mobile Manufactured Home Parks, park owners can bill tenants for utilities. However, these rights come with specific requirements:

• Utility charges must be clearly stated in your written rental agreement. The park owner cannot add extra fees or increase utility charges without advance notice and written consent from the tenant, unless the utility company raises prices.
• If there are individual meters, the landlord may only charge you for your usage—not your neighbor's.
• Park owners must show renters how the charges are calculated. If you request copies of bills from the utility company (such as Eversource or Aquarion Water), the landlord must provide them.

Summary: In Connecticut, park owners can only charge pass-through utility fees when they follow transparency rules and include these details in your lease.

What Must Be Included in the Rental Agreement?

Your rental agreement must state:

• Each utility service you, as tenant, are responsible for
• How the cost is calculated (for example, individual metering vs. a percentage of the park's bill)
• Methods for dispute resolution

How to Dispute Improper Utility Charges

If you believe your park owner is charging you unfairly or not following the proper rules, Connecticut law empowers you to challenge fees or file a complaint. The key Connecticut agency for these disputes is the Department of Consumer Protection (DCP). Complaints can also be addressed through the court system.

Official Forms

• Mobile Manufactured Home Complaint Form – No official form number.
  Use this to report issues such as overcharging for utilities, rent disputes, or maintenance failures in your park.
  Download Complaint Form (PDF – DCP)
  Example: If you are billed more than your water meter usage, or utility charges suddenly increase without explanation, fill in this form with your park's information and the problem, then submit it as directed.

For renters considering formal legal action, disputes over utility overcharges can be resolved in the local housing session of Connecticut Superior Court.

The official tribunal for mobile home disputes is the Connecticut Superior Court, Housing Session.

Relevant Legislation and Tenant Protections

• Connecticut General Statutes § 21-78 – Utility charges, rent increases, and billing transparency requirements.
• Landlord and Tenant Law (Chapter 832) – General rights and obligations for tenants and landlords.

Summary: Connecticut law is clear—park owners may only charge pass-through utilities if the costs are accurate, contractually disclosed, and billing is open to tenant inspection.

FAQ: Common Questions About Pass-Through Utilities in CT Mobile Home Parks

1. Can my mobile home park owner raise utility charges whenever they want?
   No. Increases are only allowed if the public utility increases rates, and you must receive written notice. Surprise increases not connected to public utility changes are not permitted.
   
2. Do I have to pay for my neighbor’s utilities in a Connecticut park?
   No. If meters are installed for each home, you may only be billed for your own usage. If not, there are rules about fair allocation which must be clearly stated in the lease.
   
3. How do I request proof of utility bills from my landlord?
   Ask in writing for copies of the utility bills relating to your account. Park owners must provide these details upon request under Chapter 412.
   
4. What if my landlord refuses to address an incorrect charge?
   File a written complaint using the Mobile Manufactured Home Complaint Form through the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection or seek assistance from the housing court.
   
5. Is there a state office where I can get help?
   Yes. Contact the Department of Consumer Protection for manufactured home issues, or your local housing court for legal actions.
   

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Connecticut Renters

• Park owners can only charge pass-through utilities if properly disclosed, fairly calculated, and supported by documentation.
• If you think charges are unfair, you have the right to detailed billing explanations and legal recourse—including official complaint forms and state housing tribunals.
• Always review your lease and keep records of any communications or bills.

Connecticut provides strong protections for mobile home renters facing confusing or unjustified utility charges, so reach out to agencies if you need help.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection – Handles mobile home park complaints, utility issues, and consumer rights.
• File a Housing Complaint with DCP – Step-by-step guide and forms for mobile home park residents.
• Connecticut Superior Court, Housing Session – The official body for housing disputes, including mobile home issues.
• Connecticut Fair Housing Center – Advocacy and education for renters’ rights.

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1. See Connecticut General Statutes § 21-78 for mobile manufactured home park utility charges
2. Mobile Manufactured Home Park Complaint Form: official PDF
3. Tribunal: Connecticut Superior Court, Housing Session
4. General Landlord and Tenant Law: Connecticut General Statutes Chapter 832

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