RUBS Utility Billing: What Maryland Renters Need to Know

Many renters in Maryland are charged separately for utilities using a method called Ratio Utility Billing System (RUBS). Understanding how RUBS works and knowing your rights under Maryland law can help you avoid unfair charges and make sure your landlord is following the rules. This guide explains RUBS utility billing, your rights as a Maryland renter, and where to get help if there’s a problem.

What Is RUBS Utility Billing?

Ratio Utility Billing System (RUBS) is a method landlords use to divide utility costs—like water, sewer, or trash—between tenants when a property doesn’t have individual utility meters. With RUBS, the landlord estimates a tenant’s portion based on factors like unit size, number of occupants, or similar measures.

• Utility bills are not based on actual use, but on a formula
• Landlords must clearly explain the billing method in your lease
• Common for multi-unit apartments or older properties without separate meters

Your Maryland Rights and Protections with RUBS

Maryland does not have statewide laws banning RUBS billing, and it’s generally allowed if disclosed in your written lease. However, landlords must follow clear rules under the Maryland Code, Real Property Article, Title 8. Some local jurisdictions, like Baltimore City or Montgomery County, have extra protections you should check as well^[1].

• Landlords must state any utility billing method (like RUBS) in the written lease
• Billing must be reasonable and only for actual utility costs
• Landlords cannot profit from utility charges
• You must get a breakdown of charges upon request

What to Watch Out For

• Unexpected or unexplained charges in your monthly rent bill
• Utility charges not mentioned in your lease
• Increases in utility charges far above local rates

Tip: Always keep a copy of your lease and any utility bills you receive. If charges seem high or confusing, ask your landlord for a detailed explanation in writing.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Complaint About Rental Housing (DHCD): If your landlord won’t resolve a utility billing dispute, you may file a complaint with the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development or your county’s housing office. Visit the Maryland DHCD Complaints and Disputes page for instructions. You may need to fill out their Renter Complaint Form.
  • When and how to use it: Use this form if you believe your landlord is overcharging for utilities under RUBS or not following lease rules. Submit by mail or as directed on the form.
• Petition for Relief (District Court of Maryland): If the dispute cannot be resolved, you can file a petition in your local District Court. Learn about the process on the District Court Forms page and use form DC-CV-001 (Complaint/Landlord-Tenant), for legal action concerning rental disputes.
• When and how to use it: Complete this form if you need to take legal action against your landlord, such as seeking a court order to correct improper billing.

How to Take Action on a RUBS Billing Issue

If you think your landlord is using RUBS improperly or your utility charges are unfair, follow these steps:

• Review your written lease for any terms about utility billing
• Request a breakdown of your bill (your landlord must provide one, if you ask)
• Ask your landlord to explain or correct any error in writing
• If the issue isn’t resolved, consider filing an official complaint with your local housing authority or the state DHCD
• Keep copies of all your correspondence and bills

Who Regulates RUBS and Tenant Issues in Maryland?

In Maryland, residential landlord-tenant matters—including disputes over RUBS utility billing—are overseen by the District Court of Maryland. Local county offices, such as the Montgomery County Office of Landlord-Tenant Affairs, can also help if your rental is in that jurisdiction.

Frequently Asked Questions About RUBS Utility Billing

1. Can my landlord use RUBS to bill me for utilities in Maryland?
   Yes, as long as RUBS is clearly described in your written lease and the charges are based only on the landlord’s actual utility costs, without profit.
2. What should I do if I think my utility bill is too high or unfair?
   First, request a written breakdown of the charges from your landlord. If you believe the charges are unreasonable, you can file a complaint with your local housing office or with Maryland DHCD.
3. Is my landlord required to show me the actual utility bill from the provider?
   In Maryland, if you request it, your landlord must provide documentation of utility charges and how your portion was calculated.
4. Where do I file an official complaint about a RUBS utility dispute?
   Start with your county’s landlord-tenant office or the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. For unresolved issues, you can file a complaint with the District Court of Maryland.
5. Does Maryland law limit how much a landlord can charge using RUBS?
   Landlords cannot charge more than their actual costs for utilities or make a profit, and the charges must be reasonable. Local ordinances may offer additional protection.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters

• RUBS billing is legal in Maryland if disclosed in your written lease and used reasonably.
• You have the right to request a detailed breakdown of any utility charge.
• If you feel charges are unfair, use official complaint channels for help.

Understanding your rights can help you address RUBS disputes quickly and confidently.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development – Renters – Tenant rights, complaint forms, and guidance
• District Court of Maryland – Landlord/Tenant Information – Legal forms and court info for rental disputes
• People's Law Library of Maryland – Free legal information for tenants
• Montgomery County Office of Landlord-Tenant Affairs – Local mediation and complaint assistance (for Montgomery County residents)

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1. See Maryland Code, Real Property Article, Title 8: Security Deposits and Other Provisions
2. Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development – Filing a Complaint or Dispute
3. District Court of Maryland – Landlord-Tenant Informational Resources
4. Montgomery County – Office of Landlord-Tenant Affairs

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