Can my landlord charge me for water if it wasn't clear in the lease?

If your lease is unclear, Nebraska law usually requires the landlord to pay for utilities unless the lease says otherwise. Review your agreement and discuss concerns with your landlord.

What should I do if my water bill suddenly increases?

Request an itemized bill from your landlord, double-check meter readings, and contact your local water utility to investigate any spikes before paying.

How can I officially dispute a Nebraska water bill as a renter?

If informal talks fail, you can file a formal complaint with the Nebraska County Court using the appropriate complaint and summons form.

Could I be evicted for not paying a disputed water bill?

If a landlord tries to evict for non-payment, you have a right to request a hearing and present your evidence—use Form DC 6:8.10 for the process.

Who handles rental utility complaints in Nebraska?

Utility complaints may be reviewed by the Nebraska Public Service Commission or by Nebraska County Court for landlord-tenant matters.

Nebraska Renters: Handling Water Bill Disputes with Your Landlord

Utilities, Services & Billing Nebraska published June 21, 2025

If you're renting in Nebraska, it's not uncommon to face confusion or disputes over your water bill. Maybe you received a bill that's much higher than you expected, or your landlord is charging you for water when you thought it was included in your rent. Understanding your rights and knowing what steps to take can help prevent unnecessary stress and resolve billing problems smoothly. This guide explains Nebraska-specific water bill dispute options, so you feel informed and empowered.

Understanding Water Bill Responsibilities in Nebraska Rentals

In Nebraska, a lease agreement usually spells out who is responsible for paying for utilities, including water. If the lease is silent or unclear about water charges, state law steps in to provide guidance. According to the Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, a landlord must clearly state any utility charges in the rental agreement¹.

If your lease says you pay for water, you’re usually responsible for setting up and paying the bill.
If your landlord covers water, it should be included in your rent unless otherwise stated.
Disputes sometimes arise due to unclear lease terms or an unexpectedly high water bill.

Common Water Bill Dispute Scenarios

Disputes over water bills might result from:

Sudden, unexplained increases in your water bill
Charges for water leaks or landlord plumbing negligence
Separate (sub-metered) billing without prior agreement
Landlord splitting water bills between units without clear calculation

Your Options if You Disagree with a Water Bill

First, review your lease and any written notices carefully. If you think you’re being unfairly charged, here’s what to do:

Ask your landlord in writing for a breakdown of the bill and meter readings
Document communications and keep copies of all bills and correspondence
Contact your local water utility for information if charges seem much higher than usual

If you can't reach an agreement, Nebraska law offers renters a few formal ways to dispute a utility bill.

Filing an Official Complaint or Taking Further Action

If discussions with your landlord do not resolve the dispute, consider the following:

Document everything—keep dated copies of requests, responses, and utility statements
Contact the Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) if your water service is regulated, or your local utility authority for inquiries
For unresolved lease-related disputes, file a formal complaint with the Nebraska County Court, which hears landlord-tenant matters

Relevant Nebraska Forms

Complaint and Summons (Form CC 4:1)
When to use: If you wish to bring a small claims case against your landlord for overcharges or to recover payments, use this form to start the process.
Example: Imagine your landlord charged you $300 extra for water. You ask for proof but don't get any. You may file this form at your local county court.
Nebraska County Court Complaint and Summons Form
Affidavit & Request for Hearing (Form DC 6:8.10)
When to use: If the landlord tries to evict you for non-payment due to a disputed water bill, you can submit this form to request a hearing.
Example: You withheld payment for an unfair water charge, and your landlord files for eviction. This form helps make your case to the judge.
Affidavit & Request for Hearing (Official PDF)

Before withholding rent or refusing to pay a disputed water bill, always seek legal advice or contact a tenant resource to understand the risks and next steps for Nebraska renters.

Nebraska Landlord-Tenant Tribunal and Legislation

The Nebraska County Court is responsible for handling residential tenancy disputes in the state. Your rights and responsibilities as a renter are governed by the Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act¹. Review this law for details on utility charges, dispute processes, and landlord obligations.

Summary of Options and Action Steps

Addressing a water bill dispute in Nebraska can be overwhelming, but many renters find resolution by being organized and proactive. Here are the key actions you can take:

Clarify utility responsibilities with your lease and local utility company
Communicate with your landlord clearly and in writing
Use Nebraska's official forms to initiate small claims or court intervention if needed
Seek help from Nebraska tenant resources if you need legal advice.

FAQ: Nebraska Water Bill Disputes for Renters

Can my landlord charge me for water if it wasn't clear in the lease?
If your lease is unclear, Nebraska law usually requires the landlord to pay for utilities unless the lease says otherwise. Review your agreement and discuss concerns with your landlord.
What if my water bill suddenly increases without explanation?
First, ask for an itemized bill or meter readings. If there's no clear reason for the increase, contact your landlord and possibly the local water utility. Document all communications.
How do I challenge a water bill I believe is unfair?
Request written details from your landlord, talk to the utility company, and if unresolved, consider filing a complaint with the local county court using the official forms listed above.
Who do I contact for mediation or advice in Nebraska?
You can reach out to local tenant advocacy organizations or contact the Nebraska County Court for legal procedure questions related to landlord-tenant disputes.
Can I be evicted for not paying a disputed water bill?
If a landlord begins eviction proceedings for non-payment, you have the right to request a hearing and present your case—be sure to use the Affidavit & Request for Hearing form and seek guidance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Nebraska

Nebraska County Court: Landlord-Tenant Information & Forms
Nebraska Appleseed - Housing Justice Resources
Nebraska Public Service Commission (PSC) - Utility Complaints
Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act - Full Text
Contact your local Legal Aid office for confidential tenant counseling and advice

Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act § 76-1414