Challenge an Overinflated Utility Bill as a Maryland Renter

If you’re a renter in Maryland and have received a utility bill that seems much higher than usual, you’re not alone. Understanding your rights regarding utility billing can help you resolve disputes quickly and fairly. In this article, we’ll guide you through disputing an overinflated utility bill, referencing Maryland law and providing links to official resources for extra support.

Understanding Utility Billing in Maryland Rentals

In Maryland, landlords may provide some or all utilities for tenants. Whether and how utilities are billed depends on your lease agreement. It’s important to review your lease to understand which utilities you are responsible for and how charges are calculated. Maryland law requires landlords to follow specific rules for utility billing and to provide accurate, transparent statements when utilities are submetered or allocated.

Common Reasons for High Utility Bills

If your utility bill seems unusually high, consider these potential causes:

• Incorrect meter readings or faulty meters
• Leaking fixtures or appliances
• Bills including charges for multiple units by mistake
• Unexplained rate hikes or additional fees not in your lease

It can be helpful to compare your current bill to previous months and check with neighbors to see if their bills are similar.

First Steps: What to Do if You Think Your Utility Bill is Too High

• Review your lease to confirm utility billing terms.
• Request a detailed breakdown of charges from your landlord or utility provider.
• Check your meter readings (if accessible) and compare them to bill statements.
• Look for obvious leaks or repair needs, and report them to your landlord in writing.

If your initial review suggests an error, you have options to escalate the issue.

Renter Rights and Official Protections in Maryland

Under the Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-212.4, landlords who bill tenants for utilities based on submetering or allocation must provide clear information about billing calculations and grant access to meter data and past bills upon written request¹. If your landlord is not following these rules, you can file a complaint.

How to Dispute an Overinflated Utility Bill in Maryland

• Step 1: Notify your landlord in writing. Clearly explain your concerns and request billing details or correction. Keep copies of all correspondence.
• Step 2: Use the "Tenant Complaint Form" (DHCD Form 1). If the problem is not resolved, you can submit a complaint to the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). View and download the Tenant Complaint Form (DHCD Form 1).
  • When to use: If your landlord fails to address your billing dispute or you suspect unlawful billing practices.
  • How to use: Fill in your details, attach copies of bills, any correspondence and details of the dispute, and submit via mail or email to DHCD (instructions on the form).
• Step 3: Contact the Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC). The PSC oversees utility service providers, including billing disputes. You can file a complaint online with the PSC Consumer Affairs Division.
• Step 4: Seek help from the local Office of Consumer Protection. For issues involving deceptive billing or lease violations, contact your local consumer protection office. Find your local office here.

If the dispute remains unresolved, you may pursue legal action in your county’s District Court.

Which Tribunal Handles Utility Disputes in Maryland?

The Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) is the official state body handling residential utility complaints. Billing disputes involving your landlord (especially in submetered or allocated situations) can also be mediated by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development or settled in Maryland District Court for small claims.

FAQ: Utility Billing Disputes for Maryland Renters

1. Can my landlord bill me for utilities not stated in my lease?
   If utilities are not mentioned in your lease, your landlord generally cannot bill you for them. All utility responsibilities should be listed in your rental agreement.
2. What do I do if my landlord refuses to fix a leak causing high utility bills?
   Notify your landlord in writing and keep records. If not addressed, you may file a complaint with DHCD using the Tenant Complaint Form (DHCD Form 1), or consult your local consumer protection office for further support.
3. How long does the dispute process take through the Maryland PSC?
   Resolution times vary, but you can expect an acknowledgment within a few days and investigations may take a few weeks, depending on complexity.
4. What if my bill is from the utility company, not the landlord?
   If you are billed directly by the utility, contact the utility's customer service or submit a complaint to the PSC Consumer Affairs Division if not resolved.
5. Is my landlord allowed to mark up utility charges?
   No. Maryland law prohibits landlords from charging more for utilities than the actual cost billed by the utility provider, unless agreed in the lease under lawful allocation or submetering methods.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Maryland Renters

• Always review your lease and utility bills carefully.
• Document communications and request itemized statements if you suspect errors.
• Use official forms, agencies, and free government support to resolve disputes.

Understanding your rights can help you resolve billing disputes efficiently and keep utility costs fair.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD): Renters Resources
• Maryland Public Service Commission (PSC) – file utility complaints directly
• Maryland Office of the Attorney General: Local Consumer Protection Offices
• Maryland District Court – Small claims information if legal action is needed
• Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-212.4 – Tenant and landlord utility billing requirements

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1. Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-212.4 – Utility Bills
2. DHCD Tenant Complaint Form (Form 1)
3. Maryland Public Service Commission

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