RUBS Utility Billing: What Maine Renters Need to Know

Renters across Maine often deal with utility billing practices that may seem complicated or unclear. If your landlord uses the Ratio Utility Billing System (RUBS) to charge you for shared utilities, it's important to know your rights and protections under Maine law. This article explains how RUBS works in Maine residential rentals, what landlords are allowed and required to do, and how you can address concerns if you’re unsure about your utility charges.

What is RUBS Utility Billing?

The Ratio Utility Billing System (RUBS) is a method where the landlord divides a building's utility bills among tenants using a formula. Instead of paying only for what you use (through individual meters), your cost is often based on unit size, number of occupants, or other factors. This means:

• No individual utility meter for each apartment or unit
• Charges divided by a set ratio (not actual usage)
• Landlords calculate your share with a standard method, not a personalized meter reading

In Maine, RUBS is legal if clearly outlined in your rental agreement. Landlords must not overcharge or add extra fees hidden in utility costs beyond the actual expense paid to providers.^[1]

Your Rights as a Maine Renter Under RUBS

Maine has specific laws governing how landlords deal with utilities and what must be in the lease. Here are your key rights:

• Disclosure: Your rental agreement must state whether utilities are included, and—if not—explain the RUBS method and formula being used.
• No Profit: The landlord can't charge more for utilities than the actual cost paid to the service provider.
• Access to Bills: You have the right to see actual utility bills or calculations upon request. This helps prevent unfair charges.
• No Disconnections: Maine law protects tenants from losing essential services if the landlord is responsible for paying the utility and fails to do so.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

While Maine does not have a specific form for RUBS disputes, if you have concerns, you can use the following resources:

• Tenant Complaint Form (MaineHousing): Use this form to report unaddressed issues with landlord billing or failure to follow state law. Submit it if you've tried to resolve the issue directly and need further support.
  Example: If your landlord won't provide utility bill copies or you suspect overcharging, fill out and submit the form to the address listed.

Which Tribunal or Board Handles Disputes?

Most rental and utility disputes in Maine are handled through the Maine District Court system if informal solutions fail. The MaineHousing Authority also provides guidance and enforcement for certain rental issues.

Relevant Tenancy Laws in Maine

The main law protecting renters’ utility rights is the Maine Revised Statutes, Title 14, Chapter 709: Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[1] This covers disclosures, utility billing, disconnections, security deposits, and evictions.

• §6024 – Utility Disclosures: Landlords must clearly state all utility arrangements in the lease.
• §6021 – Essential Services: Protects tenants if heat, water, or electricity is shut off due to the landlord's nonpayment.

Always review your lease and ask your landlord questions before signing.

How to Address Issues with RUBS Billing

If you believe there’s a mistake, overcharge, or problem with how utilities are billed, you can protect your rights with these steps:

• Request, in writing, a copy of the landlord’s utility bills and an explanation of the RUBS calculation.
• Review your lease to confirm what is permitted for utility charges.
• If your landlord does not cooperate, fill out the Tenant Complaint Form and submit to MaineHousing.
• For ongoing problems, contact the Maine District Court or seek legal support.

Timely action can help resolve many issues before they escalate.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is RUBS utility billing legal in Maine?
   Yes, it is legal as long as it's fully disclosed in your rental agreement and the landlord only charges actual utility costs, not more.
2. Can I see the actual utility bills if my landlord uses RUBS?
   Yes. Maine law gives you the right to request and receive copies of the actual utility bills or calculations to verify charges.
3. What should I do if I think I’m being overcharged for utilities?
   First, ask your landlord for an explanation and supporting documents. If the issue is not resolved, use the MaineHousing Tenant Complaint Form or seek assistance from the Maine District Court.
4. Can my landlord disconnect my utilities for late rent or as a penalty?
   No. Maine law strictly prohibits utility disconnection as retaliation or for unpaid rent. Only the utility company, following specific procedures, may disconnect service, and not for reasons unrelated to service payment.
5. Who can help mediate RUBS disputes in Maine?
   The MaineHousing Authority provides tenant support and the Maine District Court can hear rental disputes including utility issues.

Key Takeaways for Maine Renters

• RUBS utility billing must be clearly disclosed in your lease.
• You are entitled to see utility bill copies and calculations upon request.
• If you face challenges, reliable state resources and legal avenues are available to protect your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• MaineHousing: Tenant complaint forms, guides, and rental assistance
• Maine Office of Rental Assistance: Landlord-tenant information and forms
• Maine District Court: For formal resolution of serious disputes
• Maine Revised Statutes – Title 14, Ch. 709: Official tenancy and utility billing laws
• Maine Housing Counseling (KVCAP): Tenant education and advocacy support

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1. Maine Revised Statutes, Title 14, Chapter 709: Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

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