Challenging High Utility Bills as a Renter in New Jersey

If you’re a renter in New Jersey, receiving a surprisingly high utility bill can be stressful and confusing. Utility costs are a key part of housing expenses, and errors or overcharges sometimes happen. Fortunately, New Jersey law offers renters practical steps to challenge overinflated utility bills and protect their rights. This guide breaks down your options, the relevant regulations, and who to contact for assistance, so you don’t have to face the process alone.

Common Reasons for High Utility Bills

Before taking action, consider why your utility bill may be higher than expected. Common causes include:

• Incorrect meter readings or faulty equipment
• Billing errors (e.g., estimated usage rather than actual)
• Unreported leaks or maintenance issues
• New or increased utility rates
• Shared meters or improper billing for multiple units

Identifying the likely cause can help you provide clear information with your complaint or dispute.

Your Rights as a Renter in New Jersey

Under the New Jersey Truth in Renting Act, tenants have specific rights to transparent billing and safe, habitable living conditions. Landlords can only bill for utilities if your lease clearly spells it out and you are charged only for your own usage, unless agreed otherwise.^[1]

For more detail, see official tenant rights guides from the Department of Community Affairs (DCA).

Steps to Challenge an Overinflated Utility Bill

If you believe your utility bill is overcharged, take these steps:

• Review your lease: Confirm what you are responsible for and any agreed terms for utilities.
• Request a copy of the bill and meter readings: Compare your usage and look for discrepancies.
• Contact your landlord or property manager in writing: Politely explain the issue, provide documentation, and request a correction or explanation within a reasonable time.
• Reach out to the utility provider: If you pay them directly, contact their customer service to dispute the bill and request a review.
• Document everything: Keep records of all communication, bills, meter readings, and any repairs or issues you’ve reported.
• File an official complaint if the problem isn’t resolved: See next section for how to do this in New Jersey.

Where and How to File a Utility Dispute in New Jersey

The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) handles utility complaints for most regulated services, including electric, gas, and water. If your landlord or provider does not fairly address your concerns, you can submit a complaint using the following official form:

• Form Name: Consumer Assistance (Complaint) Form
  When to Use: If your landlord or the utility company does not resolve your disputed bill.
  How to Use: Complete the form online or by mail to describe your problem, attach supporting documents, and provide your contact details.
  Access the Consumer Assistance Complaint Form

The NJBPU will review your complaint, investigate, and attempt to resolve the issue. During a dispute, utilities cannot shut off service for the amount in dispute, though you must continue paying undisputed charges.

What is the Relevant Tribunal or Board?

The New Jersey Board of Public Utilities is the official agency responsible for investigating utility billing complaints. For rental disputes not involving utilities (e.g., lease terms or deposits), you may also contact the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs Landlord/Tenant Information Service.

What Legislation Protects New Jersey Renters?

The main laws are the Truth in Renting Act and other statutes in the New Jersey Landlord-Tenant Law.^[2] These laws require landlords to be transparent and fair in billing, address maintenance affecting utilities, and prohibit retaliation for tenants who assert their rights.

FAQ: Challenging Utility Bills in New Jersey

1. Can my landlord bill me for utilities not specified in my lease?
   No. Landlords can only charge for utilities if your lease or rental agreement clearly states your responsibility. If you’re charged for services unexpectedly, review the lease and contact your landlord or NJBPU for guidance.
2. What if my utility is under my landlord’s name?
   You may request a breakdown of your charges, and the landlord must base your charges only on the utility costs you actually used, unless otherwise agreed. Shared meter billing in New Jersey must meet strict fairness requirements.
3. How long does the NJBPU complaint process take?
   The timeline varies, but you will typically receive a response or status update within 30 days. Submitting thorough documentation can help speed up resolution.
4. Can my utility service be disconnected during a dispute?
   No, if you’ve properly filed a dispute with your provider or the NJBPU, they cannot disconnect service for the amount in dispute. However, you remain responsible for undisputed balances.
5. Where can I get free help with a billing issue?
   New Jersey offers tenant information lines and legal aid services (see resources below) to help renters with utility and tenancy problems.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters

• Check your lease, bills, and meter readings to spot errors early.
• Communicate in writing with your landlord or utility company about concerns.
• Use the NJBPU complaint process if your dispute isn’t resolved—and don’t ignore unusual bills.

Being informed and proactive helps protect your rights and your home budget.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) – Handles utility complaints and disputes.
• NJ Department of Community Affairs: Landlord-Tenant Information Service – Offers general tenant rights information and forms.
• Legal Services of New Jersey – Free and low-cost legal help for eligible renters.
• Emergency Utility Assistance: Call 2-1-1 or visit NJ 211 utility programs for help paying bills during hardship.
• For questions about renter protections and your specific lease, contact the NJ Department of Community Affairs.

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1. New Jersey Department of Community Affairs. Truth in Renting Act: Official PDF Guide.
2. New Jersey Landlord-Tenant Law: Landlord-Tenant Law Booklet (2018, updated online).

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