How New York Renters Can Dispute Water Bills

Utilities, Services & Billing New York published June 21, 2025 Flag of New York

Water bill disputes can cause stress for New York tenants, especially when the bill is unusually high or unclear. If you rent a property and find yourself facing a disagreement or confusion about your water charges, it’s important to know your rights and options under New York law. This guide explains when tenants can be billed for water, how to resolve billing disputes, and how to reach out for official help if needed—helping you better understand what to do if your landlord isn’t addressing the issue.

Who Is Responsible for the Water Bill in a Rental?

In New York, most landlords are responsible for providing tenants with essential services, like water and heat. However, a renter can be required to pay for water if this responsibility is clearly stated in the written lease agreement. If the lease does not mention water, the landlord is usually responsible.

  • If your lease requires you to pay for water, review your bill for accuracy and meter readings.
  • If water charges appear suddenly or seem higher than usual, ask your landlord for an explanation and documentation.
  • If your lease does not mention water costs, your landlord generally cannot require you to pay a separate water bill.

Your Rights Under New York Law

The New York State Real Property Law sets out your rights as a renter. The law protects tenants from being overcharged or held responsible for utilities they are not contractually obligated to pay1. If you believe you are being asked to pay an incorrect or unfair water bill, you have the right to dispute it.

How to Start a Water Bill Dispute With Your Landlord

  • Review your lease to confirm billing responsibility.
  • Collect copies of the bill, any meter readings, and communication about the charges.
  • Contact your landlord in writing, clearly stating your concerns and asking for clarification.
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  • Keep a copy of your letter or email. Written records help if you need to escalate the dispute.
If you live in New York City, your building may be subject to more specific rules under the NYC Housing Maintenance Code. The landlord often must provide water as a basic service.

Getting Official Help: Filing a Complaint

If discussion with your landlord doesn’t resolve the issue, you may file a complaint with the relevant agency:

Required Forms and How To Use Them

  • DHCR Tenant Statement of Complaint(s) (Form RA-81): Use this form to report overcharges, including improper utility bills. Complete the form and submit it to DHCR.
    Example: If you receive a water bill you believe you shouldn’t pay per your lease, use Form RA-81 to start an official complaint.
    Download the DHCR Tenant Statement of Complaint (RA-81)
  • NYCHA Maintenance Service Request (for NYCHA tenants): If you are a resident in New York City Public Housing, you can file a maintenance or service request if there’s an issue with billing or water service. Submit a request online

What to Expect: Resolution Process

When you file an official complaint, you can expect the agency or tribunal to:

  • Review your lease and any utility agreements
  • Investigate meter readings and billing records
  • Determine if the charges are valid
  • Order corrections or refunds if you were wrongly billed

It may take several weeks to resolve a complaint. Check your case status online or by phone, and continue paying undisputed portions of your bill to avoid late fees or risk of disconnection.

FAQ: Water Bill Disputes for New York Renters

  1. Do I have to pay the water bill if it’s not in my lease?
    If your lease is silent on utility charges, landlords are generally responsible for water bills under New York law.
  2. Who enforces utility billing laws for tenants?
    The New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal and, in New York City, the Department of Housing Preservation and Development oversee landlord-tenant utility obligations.
  3. What should I include when I dispute a water bill?
    Gather your lease, copies of the disputed bill, meter readings, and all communication with your landlord. Submit this with your complaint form for best results.
  4. Can I be evicted for refusing to pay a disputed water bill?
    A landlord cannot lawfully evict you for withholding payment of charges you are not contractually obligated to pay, but always continue paying rent and documented utilities. Seek legal advice if you receive an eviction notice.
  5. Where do I get official complaint forms for my dispute?
    Find the DHCR Tenant Statement of Complaint (RA-81) on the DHCR’s tenant forms page.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for New York Renters

  • Always check your lease to clarify water bill responsibilities.
  • Communicate in writing with your landlord, and keep records if you dispute a utility charge.
  • If needed, file a formal complaint with DHCR or HPD using official forms such as RA-81.

Understanding your rights and the proper steps to take can greatly improve your chances of resolving water bill disputes quickly and fairly.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. New York State Real Property Law
  2. New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR)
  3. NYC Housing Maintenance Code

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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.

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