Pass-Through Utility Charges for Iowa Mobile Home Parks

If you're renting a mobile or manufactured home in Iowa, understanding how utility charges work is important. Many renters wonder whether mobile home park owners can bill them directly for utilities like water, gas, or electricity—a practice called "pass-through utilities." This article explains Iowa law on pass-through utility charges, what your rights are, and where to turn for help.

Understanding Pass-Through Utility Charges in Iowa

Pass-through utility charges occur when the park owner pays the utility company, then bills residents separately for their share of usage or costs. This is different from utilities included as part of the rent, or when a homeowner gets a direct bill from the utility provider.

In Iowa, the rules for charging residents for utilities in mobile home parks are set out in the Iowa Manufactured Home Communities or Mobile Home Parks Residential Landlord and Tenant Law (Iowa Code Chapter 562B)^[1]. This law outlines what is permitted, disclosures needed, and how disputes are resolved.

What Iowa Law Says About Pass-Through Utilities

The law allows park owners to bill residents for utilities—such as water, sewer, gas, or electricity—but there are important requirements:

• Disclosure: The rental agreement must clearly state if the resident will be billed separately for utilities, and how those charges are calculated.
• Pass-Through Method: If the landlord allocates charges, the method (metered or apportioned) must be fair and made clear to all residents.
• No Extra Fees: Park owners may only pass along the actual cost; they cannot add service or administrative charges beyond the amount billed by the utility company, unless this is specifically allowed and disclosed in your lease.
• Billing Statements: Residents have the right to see a copy of the utility bill and an explanation of how their share was determined.

If a park owner is not following these rules, renters may have grounds to dispute the charges.

How Utility Billing Should Work in a Mobile Home Park

For renters in Iowa, here's what you should expect:

• Your rental agreement (lease) must state who pays each utility and whether it is a pass-through charge.
• Bills for shared utilities should be detailed, with a clear explanation of charges and, when requested, access to billing documentation from the utility provider.
• Any utility rate changes or new surcharges should be disclosed in advance according to Iowa law.

Common Utility Disputes—and How to Address Them

If you think you're being charged unfairly for utilities or unclear amounts are being added, you have several options:

• Ask your park manager for an itemized statement and (if available) copies of the community's utility bill.
• Review your written lease for any clauses about utilities.
• If concerns aren't resolved, you may file a complaint or seek mediation through the Iowa Civil Rights Commission or Iowa Legal Aid.
• For formal disputes, you can use Iowa court forms to assert your rights as a tenant.

Relevant Forms for Iowa Renters

• Notice to Remedy Violation (Form DC-CV-255): This form can be used by renters to formally notify the park owner of a violation, such as improper utility charges. Example: If you believe you are being billed illegally for utilities, fill out this form and deliver it to your landlord. IOWA Official Notice to Remedy Violation.
• Small Claims Complaint and Original Notice: Use this if seeking to recover money you believe was wrongly charged for utilities. Available through the Iowa Judicial Branch’s court forms center.

For both forms, explain the situation, attach supporting documents (bills, communications), and file with the district court or deliver to your landlord.

Which Tribunal Handles Utility Disputes?

Disputes over rental and utility charges in Iowa mobile home parks are handled by the Iowa Judicial Branch (Civil Division) of your local county district court, as Iowa does not have a specific housing tribunal. Initial complaints can also be made to the Iowa Civil Rights Commission for discrimination, or to Iowa Legal Aid for free legal help.

Key Legislation Protecting Iowa Mobile Home Renters

• Iowa Code Chapter 562B – Landlord and Tenant Law for Manufactured Home Parks
• Iowa Code Chapter 562A – Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Law

Both set important standards for landlord and tenant rights, including on utility billing, proper lease terms, and dispute resolution.

Frequently Asked Questions: Iowa Mobile Home Utility Rights

1. Can my landlord add extra fees to my utility charges?
   No. Under Iowa law, a landlord can only charge you the actual cost paid to the utility provider, unless your written lease clearly allows for a separate administrative fee and you agreed to it.
2. How can I verify that my utility charges are correct?
   You have the right to see a copy of the primary utility bill for your share of the charges. Always ask for an itemized statement if you are unsure.
3. What should I do if utilities are suddenly included as a new charge?
   The landlord must give you written notice and update your lease. New charges generally may not be imposed during an existing lease term unless you agree in writing.
4. How do I dispute an unfair utility charge in my mobile home park?
   Start by communicating in writing with your landlord. If the issue is not resolved, use the Notice to Remedy Violation form or file a small claims action with your county’s civil court.
5. Where can I get free help if I can’t afford an attorney?
   Contact Iowa Legal Aid or the Iowa Civil Rights Commission for assistance at no cost.

Key Takeaways for Iowa Mobile Home Renters

• Iowa law allows pass-through utility billing only when detailed in your lease and charges accurately reflect actual costs.
• Always request detailed statements and know your right to see the original utility bill.
• Use official Iowa forms and resources to dispute unfair charges and protect yourself.

Knowing your rights on utility charges helps you stay protected and work confidently with your park management.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Iowa Court Forms Center – Access official forms if you need to file a dispute or remedy violation
• Iowa Civil Rights Commission – Help with discrimination and housing-related complaints
• Iowa Legal Aid – Free legal assistance for low-income renters
• Iowa Find-A-Lawyer – Locate a qualified housing attorney for additional support

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1. Iowa Code Chapter 562B – Manufactured Home Communities or Mobile Home Parks Residential Landlord and Tenant Law
2. Iowa Code Chapter 562A – Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Law

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