RUBS Utility Billing Rules for Indiana Renters

If you rent a home or apartment in Indiana, you may have seen a utility charge on your bill labeled as "RUBS"—which stands for Ratio Utility Billing System. It’s important to understand how RUBS works, what Indiana law says about these charges, and how you can protect your rights as a renter. This guide will help you navigate RUBS utility billing and know where to turn for help.

What Is RUBS Utility Billing?

RUBS, or Ratio Utility Billing System, is a way landlords distribute utility costs (like water, sewer, or trash) among tenants based on specific formulas rather than actual individual usage meters. In Indiana, it’s common for multi-unit buildings to use RUBS to divide utility bills fairly when separate meters aren’t available.

How Is RUBS Calculated?

Under RUBS, each renter pays a share of the utility bill calculated by factors such as:

• The number of residents in your unit
• The size (square footage) of your apartment
• The number of bedrooms or bathrooms

Indiana law requires landlords to clearly state in your lease how utility charges (including RUBS) will be divided and billed.^[1]

Your Rights and RUBS Utility Billing in Indiana

While no specific Indiana statute bans RUBS, your landlord must:

• Disclose the method of utility billing in your lease agreement
• Provide clear information on how your share is calculated
• Bill you only for actual costs incurred

These rules are designed to prevent unfair charges and protect your right to dispute questionable bills. Indiana renters are protected under the Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 – Landlord-Tenant Relations.^[2]

Official Forms and How to Use Them

If you have concerns or disputes about RUBS utility charges, your first step is often to notify your landlord in writing. Indiana does not have a special "utility complaint" form, but you can use the following general tools:

• Indiana Attorney General Consumer Complaint Form (Online)
  File a Complaint: Indiana Attorney General
  When to use: If your landlord refuses to provide a breakdown of RUBS charges or you believe you’re being overcharged, you can submit this form. For example, Sarah, a renter in Indianapolis, found her bill suddenly doubled with little explanation. She sent a letter to her landlord, waited 10 business days, and, after no response, submitted this complaint form online.
• Notice of Landlord Violation (Letter Format – No Official Form)
  While Indiana does not offer a standard notice form for utility billing issues, renters can submit a written notice to their landlord describing the problem and requesting documentation or correction. Retain a copy and send by certified mail for your records.

How to Dispute a RUBS Utility Bill

If you believe your RUBS utility bill is incorrect or unfair, follow these steps:

• Check your lease for details on utility billing and calculation methods
• Request a written itemization of charges from your landlord
• Send a written dispute notice outlining your concerns
• If not resolved, file a complaint with the Indiana Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division

For serious, ongoing issues, you may also consider contacting your local small claims court, but always attempt to resolve the matter directly and keep written records.

Who Handles Landlord-Tenant Disputes in Indiana?

Indiana does not have a separate residential tenancies tribunal. Most disputes go to local Small Claims Court, and renters can also seek help from the Indiana Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division.

FAQ: RUBS Utility Billing in Indiana

1. Can my landlord bill me for utilities using any method they choose?
   Landlords must use a method clearly described in your signed lease and cannot arbitrarily change it without your agreement.
2. Is it legal for a landlord to charge administrative fees on RUBS bills?
   Administrative fees are only allowed if disclosed in your lease. If not clearly stated, you can dispute these fees.
3. How do I dispute a RUBS bill in Indiana?
   First, notify your landlord in writing. If it is not resolved within a reasonable time, file a complaint with the Indiana Attorney General’s office.
4. Do I have to pay a RUBS bill if my landlord won’t provide a breakdown?
   If your landlord refuses to give a detailed explanation, you may withhold payment for the disputed amount until resolved, but consult legal resources before taking this step.
5. Where do I go if my RUBS dispute cannot be resolved directly with my landlord?
   Unresolved disputes can be filed with the Indiana Attorney General Consumer Protection Division and, if necessary, taken to Small Claims Court.

Key Takeaways for Indiana Renters

• Your landlord must disclose and explain any RUBS billing in your lease
• You have the right to dispute and seek a breakdown of RUBS utility charges
• Resources such as the Indiana Attorney General's office and Small Claims Court are available for unresolved disputes

Understanding these basics can help protect you against unexpected or unfair utility charges in your Indiana rental.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Indiana Attorney General – Consumer Protection Division: File a utility billing complaint or ask questions about your rights
• Indiana Small Claims Court: For rental disputes that cannot be resolved informally
• Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority – Renter Resources: General housing assistance and support programs
• Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 – Landlord-Tenant Relations: Full legislation governing rental rights and obligations

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1. Leases and utility division – See Indiana Code 32-31-5-6
2. Landlord and tenant laws – Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31

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