How to Dispute a High Utility Bill as a Massachusetts Renter

If you’re renting in Massachusetts and suddenly receive a much higher utility bill than usual, you are not alone—other tenants face this issue too. An unexpectedly large utility bill can be stressful, but Massachusetts law provides protections for renters. Whether the issue is with your electricity, gas, water, or heating bill, understanding your rights and the steps you can take is crucial. This guide will help you challenge an excessive utility charge in Massachusetts with practical and legal tips.

Understanding Utility Charges in Massachusetts Rentals

Renters are often responsible for utilities not included in the rent, but Massachusetts laws set important conditions for when and how landlords can bill tenants. In most cases:

• Landlords can only bill tenants for utilities if the rental unit is individually metered or submetered.
• Written disclosure in the lease about utility billing is required.
• Water billing is regulated by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186, Section 22, which requires specific notice and written tenant consent.^[1]

If you notice a sudden and unexplained increase in your utility bill, it could be due to billing errors, leaks, faulty meters, or unauthorized charges.

Immediate Steps If You Receive an Overinflated Utility Bill

First, check whether your lease or rental agreement specifies your responsibility for the utility in question. If you’re certain that the bill is higher than it should be, take the following initial steps:

• Review previous utility bills for comparison.
• Check for recent changes in occupancy or appliance use.
• Inspect the unit for visible leaks, running toilets, or faulty appliances.
• Contact the utility company directly to verify your account and clarify charges. Utilities in Massachusetts are overseen by the Department of Public Utilities.^[2]

If You Suspect a Billing Error or Unfair Charge

• Request a written explanation from your landlord about the high bill, especially if your utilities are submetered or billed through the landlord.
• Ask for meter readings or proof of consumption.
• Contact your utility provider to dispute the bill and request an investigation. Most utilities have a customer service or billing dispute process.

Filing a Complaint About Your Utility Bill

If the issue is not resolved by talking to your landlord or the utility provider, you may submit a formal complaint. Here's how:

• For city-operated water, gas, or electric utilities, file a written complaint with the utility's customer service or billing office.
• For investor-owned utilities (such as National Grid or Eversource), contact the Department of Public Utilities' Consumer Division at File a Complaint About Your Utility Service page.^[2]

Relevant Official Form: Department of Public Utilities Consumer Complaint Form

• Form Name: Consumer Complaint Form
• Use: Complete this online or downloadable form if your utility provider is not resolving your dispute.
  • Example: If your efforts with Eversource's customer service do not lead to bill adjustment or inquiry, the form lets you report your case for state review.
• Access the Consumer Complaint Form

Your Rights as a Renter Under Massachusetts Law

Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186 outlines key tenant protections:

• Landlords cannot bill you for utilities unless clearly stated in writing and, for water, with your signed written consent (Chapter 186, Section 22).
• Heating must meet local code requirements, even in cold months, under the State Sanitary Code.^[3]
• You cannot be evicted for refusing to pay a disputed, unsubstantiated utility charge.

If self-advocacy does not resolve the issue, you can seek a hearing before the Massachusetts Housing Court, the main tribunal for residential rental disputes.^[4]

What to Expect After You File a Complaint

After submitting the complaint form, an investigator from the Department of Public Utilities will review your claim, may request supporting documents, and work to resolve the dispute between you, the utility, and your landlord if involved. The Housing Court can provide legal remedies if the situation impacts your tenancy.

FAQ: Challenging Utility Bills in Massachusetts

1. Can my landlord bill me for utilities not listed in my lease?
   In Massachusetts, landlords can only charge tenants for utilities if this responsibility is clearly stated in your written rental agreement.
2. Where do I file a complaint if I can't resolve my bill with my landlord?
   File a complaint with the Department of Public Utilities’ Consumer Division through their official website. For unresolved rent or habitability issues, contact the Massachusetts Housing Court.
3. Does the landlord have to show me the actual utility bill?
   Yes, you have the right to request and review copies of the actual utility bills or meter readings.
4. Am I protected if my landlord tries to evict me for disputing a bill?
   Yes. Massachusetts laws protect tenants from eviction over a legitimate utility billing dispute.

Key Takeaways

• Always check your lease and state laws regarding utility charges.
• Gather documentation and request explanations for any high bills.
• If disputes remain unresolved, use the official Consumer Complaint Form and consider seeking help from the Housing Court.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) – File utility complaints and get consumer information.
• MassLegalHelp: Housing – Renter resources and legal guidance for utility and tenancy disputes.
• Massachusetts Housing Court – Handles rental disputes, including those related to billing and habitability.
• Massachusetts General Laws: Tenant Utility Rights

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1. Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 186, Section 22 – Responsibilities for Water Submetering and Utility Billing
2. Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities: File a Complaint About Your Utility Service
3. Massachusetts State Sanitary Code — Housing Requirements (105 CMR 410)
4. Massachusetts Housing Court (Official Tribunal for Tenancy Disputes)

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