How Montana Renters Can Dispute an Unfair Utility Bill

If you’re a renter in Montana and have received a utility bill that seems much too high, you’re not alone. Unusually high or incorrect bills can happen for many reasons—meter errors, incorrect calculations, or disputed usage. Understanding your rights and knowing what steps to take can help you resolve the issue quickly, often without conflict.

Understanding Utility Billing in Montana Rentals

First, check if your rental agreement requires you to pay utilities: sometimes landlords pay and bill you back, sometimes you pay directly. Read your lease for specifics about who is responsible and how charges are calculated.

  • Landlords must provide accurate billing records.
  • All utility charges must reflect your actual usage or fair allocation as outlined in your lease.
  • Any additional administrative fees must also be detailed in your rental agreement.

Common Reasons for Overinflated Utility Bills

Before you dispute the bill, consider some common reasons for high charges:

  • Estimated or incorrect meter readings
  • Miscalculated shared utilities (for multi-unit buildings)
  • Unreported leaks or malfunctioning appliances
  • Billing mistakes, such as the wrong dates or rates

It’s helpful first to rule out usage spikes (seasonal, extra guests, etc.) or confirm you’re not being wrongly billed for another unit.

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Your Rights and Applicable Montana Law

Montana’s Residential Landlord and Tenant Act governs tenant and landlord responsibilities, including utility billing arrangements.[1] Renters have the right to:

Steps to Dispute an Overinflated Utility Bill in Montana

Follow these steps to address a utility billing problem with your landlord or the utility provider. Acting early increases your chance of a positive resolution.

1. Gather Documentation

  • Collect recent utility bills, the questionable bill, and your lease agreement.
  • Record any relevant meter readings, photos, or repair notices.

2. Contact Your Landlord or Utility Provider

  • Write a polite letter or email describing your concern. State the amount, date, and why you believe the bill is incorrect.
  • Request clarification or an itemized statement. Ask to see meter readings or any formula used to calculate your bill.

3. File an Informal Complaint (Optional)

  • If the issue is with a regulated utility (like Northwestern Energy), you can file an Informal Utility Complaint Form with the Montana Public Service Commission (PSC).
  • When to use: After speaking directly to the utility and not receiving resolution. Complete the PSC Informal Complaint Form (no number). Example: If your electric bill is unusually high and the utility won’t explain, submit this form to request PSC review.

4. Official Written Notice to Landlord

  • If the landlord controls utility billing, give written notice that you dispute the charge.
  • Under the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, a formal written notice must state your complaint and request correction—save a copy![1]

5. Request Investigation or Mediation

  • Ask your landlord for an investigation or mediation, especially if leaks or common-area usage may be involved.
  • If you can’t resolve it between yourselves, reach out to state organizations (see Resources below).

6. Escalate to State Agencies

  • If the utility is regulated and you disagree with your utility’s or landlord’s response, file a Formal Utility Complaint with the Montana PSC.
  • When to use: If your issue isn’t resolved after the informal process. The formal PSC complaint may result in an investigation or hearing.
If you believe your landlord is withholding receipts or not following the lease agreement, you can use Montana’s legal notice provisions to document your case in writing before seeking legal aid or housing mediation.

Relevant Forms for Montana Renters

  • PSC Informal Complaint Form (no number):
    Use to quickly notify the Montana Public Service Commission of a utility problem for initial review. Access the official form here.
  • Formal PSC Complaint:
    Can be requested through the Montana PSC’s complaints page if informal discussions don’t resolve the issue. Find detailed instructions and the contact portal.
  • Written Notice to Landlord:
    There is no standard state form; a written letter or email (with date and details) is acceptable. Clearly state the disputed amount, the billing period, and request explanation or adjustment.

Each form is designed to create an official record of your dispute and prompt a review or investigation. Always keep copies for your own files.

FAQ: Challenging Utility Bills as a Montana Renter

  1. What should I do if my landlord refuses to provide utility bill details?
    Your landlord must provide clear utility charges if required in your lease. If not, send a written request and notify the Montana Board of Housing if they still refuse.
  2. Can I withhold rent if I’m charged too much for utilities?
    No, withholding rent can risk eviction. Instead, pay your rent and formally dispute the utility portion in writing, keeping receipts.
  3. What state agency can help with utility billing disputes?
    The Montana Public Service Commission can investigate complaints involving regulated utilities.
  4. How fast do I have to act if I find an incorrect bill?
    It’s best to notify your landlord or utility promptly upon discovery, ideally within one billing cycle. Quick action improves your chances of quick correction.
  5. If my landlord won’t help, can I complain directly to the utility?
    Yes, especially if the account is in your name. Otherwise, request your landlord’s cooperation or seek help from the Board of Housing.

Key Takeaways for Montana Renters

  • Understand who is responsible for utilities by reviewing your lease and Montana law.
  • Always communicate disputes in writing and keep detailed records.
  • Montana renters can use official forms and agencies—like the Public Service Commission—for unresolved utility bill issues.

Need Help? Resources for Renters


  1. Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Title 70, Chapter 24)
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Renter Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.