Pass-Through Utility Charges for Mobile Home Parks in Idaho

If you rent a lot or a mobile home in Idaho, you might wonder if your landlord or park manager can pass along utility costs directly to you as a separate charge. This guide explains what pass-through utilities mean, Idaho laws on this practice, and steps you can take if you have concerns about utility billing in mobile home and manufactured housing communities.

Understanding Pass-Through Utility Charges

Pass-through utilities refer to costs like water, sewer, electricity, or gas that the landlord pays for the property, then bills directly to tenants, often in addition to lot rent. It is important to know how, when, and if this is allowed under Idaho law.

Are Pass-Through Utilities Allowed in Idaho Mobile Home Parks?

Idaho law does allow mobile home park landlords to charge tenants for utilities, as long as certain requirements are met. According to the Idaho Manufactured Home Residency Act, these charges must be clearly outlined in your written rental agreement.^[1]

• The rental agreement must specifically state which utilities or services are being charged as "pass-through" or in addition to rent.
• Landlords can bill you only for utilities and services actually provided to your lot or home, and only if the agreement covers these costs.
• Changes to utility charges generally require written notice, and in most cases, these cannot be increased during the term of your lease.

This ensures renters are not surprised by extra utility costs after moving in. If a charge is not disclosed up front in the lease, you cannot be required to pay it later.

What Must Be Disclosed in a Rental Agreement?

By Idaho law, all rental agreements for mobile home parks must be in writing and must include:

• A clear statement of monthly rent and all other recurring charges (such as utilities or fees).
• Information about which utilities are provided and how charges are calculated—whether by actual usage, flat rates, or allocation among tenants.

If you feel your agreement is unclear or missing required disclosures, you may have grounds to request clarification or file a complaint.

Official Idaho Forms for Mobile Home Park Renters

• Complaint Form – Idaho Office of the Attorney General, Consumer Protection Division
  When to use: If you believe your landlord is improperly charging utilities or violating the Manufactured Home Residency Act, you may file a complaint. For example, if you are billed for utilities not mentioned in the lease.
  Access the Idaho Consumer Complaint Form

Note: Idaho does not have a dedicated housing tribunal; housing disputes are generally resolved via local court (typically small claims or magistrate court). For guidance, visit the Idaho Supreme Court Self-Help Center for basic instructions and forms.

Steps if You Have Concerns About Pass-Through Utility Charges

• Read your rental agreement carefully to identify what utility charges are outlined.
• Request written clarification from your landlord if a charge appears that was not discussed in your contract.
• If issues remain unresolved, consider filing a complaint with the Idaho Attorney General or seeking advice from legal services.

Relevant Legislation and Oversight Agencies

• Idaho Manufactured Home Residency Act – This law regulates landlord and tenant rights in mobile home parks.^[1]
• Idaho Office of the Attorney General – Consumer Protection Division – Investigates complaints about unfair or deceptive rental practices.
• Idaho Courts Self-Help Center – Offers free information and court forms for housing disputes in Idaho.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my mobile home park increase utility charges at any time?
   No, most increases or new charges must be disclosed and typically cannot change during the term of your lease unless your written agreement says otherwise.
2. What should I do if I’m billed for a utility not mentioned in my lease?
   First, contact your park manager or landlord in writing to ask for clarification. If unresolved, consider submitting a complaint using the Idaho Consumer Complaint Form.
3. Are shared or master-metered utilities allowed to be divided among tenants?
   Yes, but your agreement must clearly state how these costs are calculated and distributed. If the calculation is unclear, you can request an explanation.
4. Who enforces mobile home park tenant protections in Idaho?
   The Idaho Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division handles complaints, while the Idaho courts hear disputes.
5. Where can I find official information on my mobile home rights?
   The best official source is the Idaho Manufactured Home Residency Act. You can also refer to the Idaho Attorney General’s website for consumer protection guidance.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Idaho Renters

• Utility pass-through charges are legal in Idaho mobile home parks only if properly disclosed in your rental agreement.
• Always review your lease so you understand what charges you may see and what notice is required for any changes.
• If you feel your rights are being violated, you can file a complaint with the Idaho Attorney General or seek court help.

Understanding your rights around utility charges can help you avoid unexpected bills and resolve disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Idaho Office of the Attorney General – Consumer Protection Division: (208) 334-2424
• Idaho Courts Self-Help Center: Free guides and forms for renters
• Idaho Legal Aid Services: Free or low-cost legal help for eligible residents

---

1. Idaho Manufactured Home Residency Act, Idaho Statutes Title 55, Chapter 20

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations