Handling Disputes Over Water Bills as a Renter in New Hampshire

As a renter in New Hampshire, understanding your rights around water bills can help you resolve disputes quickly and avoid unnecessary stress. If you’ve received a confusing or unexpectedly high water bill, knowing the legal framework, state resources, and the steps to take can make the process more manageable.

Who Is Responsible for the Water Bill?

In New Hampshire, whether the tenant or the landlord pays the water bill depends on the terms of your rental agreement or lease. Most leases specify utility responsibilities. If it is not clear, state law (RSA 540-A) requires the landlord to provide water unless otherwise agreed in writing^[1].

• Lease states tenant pays water: You’re responsible for the bill, but only for charges during your tenancy.
• Lease is silent about water: The landlord is typically responsible for both cost and timely payment.
• Separate water meters: Bills can be apportioned per meter reading—verify you’re only being billed for your own usage.

Common Water Bill Disputes for Renters

Water bill issues in New Hampshire can arise from:

• Bills for periods before or after your tenancy
• Disputes over billing amounts or leaks not caused by you
• Shutoff notices even when you’ve paid your share
• Charges for common area or neighbor use

If you suspect an error, reviewing your lease, bill, and any supporting documentation is the first step.

What to Do When You Dispute a Water Bill

If you believe your water bill is incorrect, follow these recommended steps:

• Compare the bill against your lease and previous utility statements.
• Contact your landlord or property manager in writing to raise your concern.
• Request a breakdown of charges or meter reading records.
• If unresolved, consider contacting your water provider for an explanation or correction.

Filing a Complaint or Requesting a Review

If discussions with your landlord don’t lead to resolution, or you are at risk of water shutoff, you can take further action. The New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission (PUC) is the main state tribunal handling utility complaints related to water bills^[2].

• Utility-owned water systems must follow PUC rules regarding billing and service.
• If your water comes from a municipal or city utility, contact the city or town's utility office directly—with written documentation.

Key Official Forms and Their Uses

• Consumer Complaint Form (PUC Form):
  Used to formally report billing or shutoff complaints to the PUC. For example: if your water provider will not correct an erroneous bill and you’ve already tried direct negotiation. Access the Consumer Complaint Form.

Submit completed forms to the PUC via mail, email, or the online submission tool, including any supporting documents like your lease and bills.

Relevant Legislation and Tenant Protection

New Hampshire’s landlord-tenant laws, found in RSA 540-A: Landlord and Tenant, offer baseline protections such as the right to essential services, including water. Landlords cannot deliberately shut off water as a form of eviction. If you face a water shutoff or are billed unfairly, you can seek emergency relief by contacting the court or PUC.

What If My Water Is Shut Off?

Landlords are generally prohibited from terminating essential services as a means to evict or force payment. If this happens, you can:

• Contact the Public Utilities Commission or your city water department immediately.
• File a complaint with the PUC if the water provider is regulated.
• Consider filing an emergency petition in your local district court for restoration of service.

It’s important to address potential health and safety risks quickly—document all actions.

FAQ: Water Bill Disputes for New Hampshire Renters

1. Can my landlord make me pay for a neighbor’s water usage?
   No. You are only responsible for your own water use unless your lease says otherwise. If you believe you’re being billed for shared water, ask for a meter reading or breakdown and contact the landlord or water company.
2. What if my landlord won’t respond to my water bill concern?
   Document your communication and consider contacting the New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission. If the problem involves shutoff or essential services, you may also seek immediate help from your local district court.
3. How do I submit a utility complaint form?
   Use the Consumer Complaint Form on the PUC website, include documentation, and submit by mail, email, or online.
4. Can my water be shut off if my landlord owes money?
   No. Utility companies cannot disconnect your service due to a landlord’s nonpayment without providing prior notice and options for tenants to maintain service, as regulated by the PUC.
5. Which law protects renters regarding water bills in New Hampshire?
   The primary law is RSA 540-A: Landlord and Tenant.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for New Hampshire Renters

• Review your lease to confirm who pays the water bill and the time period covered.
• If you have a water bill dispute, communicate with your landlord and utility provider in writing.
• The Public Utilities Commission is the primary body for utility billing complaints and can help resolve disputes.

By knowing your rights and using official state forms and agencies, you can protect yourself and resolve most water bill disputes efficiently.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission: File a Complaint – For regulated water utility disputes.
• NH Department of Justice: Landlord-Tenant Information – Overview of tenants’ rights and legal protections.
• NH Landlord and Tenant Act (RSA 540-A) – Full, up-to-date legislation.
• New Hampshire Legal Aid – Free advocacy and legal support for renters.

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1. NH RSA 540-A: Landlord and Tenant Statute
2. New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission

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