Sub-Metering and Master Meter Rights for NH Renters

If you rent a home or apartment in New Hampshire, you might wonder how your utilities are billed and what your rights are. Many renters share utility services with neighbors—sometimes they're billed based on usage (sub-metering), other times by splitting the landlord's main bill (master meter). Understanding New Hampshire-specific rules can help you avoid unfair charges and better communicate with your landlord.

Definitions: Sub-Metering vs. Master Meter

Sub-metering means you (the tenant) are billed for exactly what you use, measured by a separate meter installed for your unit. Master metering means all units share one main utility meter—the landlord gets the bill and may divide charges between tenants, sometimes by square footage or another method.

• Sub-metering: You pay only for your unit's usage.
• Master metering: Charges are divided—can lead to disputes if usage isn't even.

This is important because your responsibility and your rights change depending on which method is used.

What the Law Says About Utility Billing in New Hampshire

According to the New Hampshire Residential Rental Agreements Act (RSA 540-A), landlords must clearly state in your written lease which utilities you are responsible to pay. They cannot disconnect or cut utilities as a way to force payment of rent or to encourage you to move out.

If your utilities are master-metered (all units on one meter), state law requires the landlord to be responsible for utility payments directly to the utility provider, unless:

• The utility company installs separate meters and bills you directly
• Or, your written lease specifically states you must pay utility costs

Landlords cannot charge you more than what the utility company charges them. Any handling or administrative fees are strictly limited or not allowed.

Example: Utilities Clause in Your Lease

If your lease says, "Tenant agrees to pay for electricity," but there's only one meter for the whole building, you should clarify with your landlord and check your rights. If you believe you are being overcharged, you can file a complaint with the Office of Professional Licensure and Certification/Office of Mediation and Arbitration.

Forms and Filing a Complaint

New Hampshire does not require a standard form for utility disputes, but you may need to submit a written complaint if you believe you are being unfairly billed or your landlord is violating the lease. For disputes, you can:

• Write a letter stating your concerns and keep a copy for your records
• Use the Mediation Request Form (Landlord-Tenant Mediation Request) if you want free state-sponsored conflict resolution

How it's used: If you think your landlord is charging you incorrectly for utilities, fill out the Mediation Request Form and submit it to the Office of Mediation and Arbitration. This starts a process to help resolve the dispute outside of court.

Your Rights: Disconnection, Fees, and Notice

Even if you fall behind on rent, your landlord cannot shut off your utilities to pressure you. This is considered an illegal "self-help eviction." If you face threats of utility shutoff, you may seek help through New Hampshire's mediation program or file a complaint in court (NH Circuit Court – District Division).

Summary: In most situations, landlords must keep utilities running and provide proper notice for any billing changes. If your lease is unclear or seems unfair, you have the right to mediation and review.

How to Resolve Utility Billing Problems

To handle concerns about utility overcharges or sub-metering issues:

• Check your lease or rental agreement about utility billing
• Ask your landlord for clarification or a copy of the utility bill
• If unresolved, send a written request for explanation
• If you still have a problem, use mediation services or contact the state district court

New Hampshire prioritizes written communication—keep copies and document all interactions for your records.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord charge extra fees for utilities in New Hampshire?
   No, landlords can only pass on the actual cost of utilities, not additional administrative or handling fees, unless specifically allowed in your lease by law.
2. What should I do if I'm being overcharged for master-metered utilities?
   Ask for a copy of the provider's utility bill. If you suspect overcharging, start with a written request. If this fails, consider using New Hampshire's mediation services for landlord-tenant disputes.
3. Is my landlord required to install a sub-meter for my apartment?
   No state law requires your landlord to install sub-meters, but if they bill you for actual usage, your premises must be properly sub-metered and you must be billed based on your actual use, not estimates.
4. Who handles rental utility disputes in New Hampshire?
   The Office of Mediation and Arbitration offers free mediation, and the NH Circuit Court – District Division handles formal disputes.
5. What happens if my utilities are shut off?
   Landlords may not legally disconnect utilities to enforce rent or evict you. Report any utility shutoff threats immediately and seek state assistance or court action.

Key Takeaways for New Hampshire Renters

• Utility charges should reflect the true cost—no extra fees unless stated in your lease and allowed by law.
• Landlords cannot legally shut off your utilities to enforce payment or eviction.
• If you have a dispute, written communication and using official mediation services protect your rights.

Review your lease, ask questions, and don't hesitate to use state resources if you need help.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• NH Office of Mediation and Arbitration – Landlord-Tenant Mediation: Free, state-run mediation services for utility and lease disputes.
• NH Circuit Court District Division: Handles formal tenant complaints and eviction hearings.
• NH Attorney General's Consumer Protection Bureau: If you suspect unfair utility or billing practices.
• Read the Residential Rental Agreements Act (RSA 540-A) for complete tenant rights information.

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1. RSA 540-A: New Hampshire Residential Rental Agreements Act — State Law Text
2. NH Office of Mediation and Arbitration — Landlord-Tenant Mediation Program
3. NH District Court (rental disputes and utility complaints) — Official Information
4. Mediation Request Form — NH Landlord-Tenant Mediation Request (PDF)

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