Pass-Through Utility Charges in NC Mobile Home Parks: Renter Rights

If you rent a mobile or manufactured home lot in North Carolina, understanding how utility charges work is crucial. Many renters are concerned when parks bill them separately for utilities. Can parks legally charge for utilities as "pass-through" costs? Are these charges regulated? Let’s break down your rights, obligations, and what North Carolina law says about these fees.

Understanding Pass-Through Utility Charges in Mobile Home Parks

"Pass-through utilities" are when a park owner bills renters for actual utility use (like water, sewer, or electricity), often passing along costs from municipal or private providers. In North Carolina, these arrangements have specific rules to protect both renters and park owners.

Are Pass-Through Utility Charges Allowed?

• Yes, North Carolina law allows park owners to bill renters separately for utilities, provided they follow state guidelines.
• If the utilities are submetered (each home has its own meter), charges must be based on actual use.
• If utilities cannot be individually metered, charges may be allocated, but the method must be disclosed in your lease.

This practice is regulated under North Carolina General Statutes and overseen by the North Carolina Utilities Commission.¹

What Protections Do Renters Have?

• By law, you must receive clear information about how your utility bill is calculated.
• The park owner cannot charge more than the actual rate charged by the utility provider, except for a small administrative fee (capped by law).
• Your lease should specify how each utility is billed and any associated fees.

If you believe you've been improperly billed, you can file a complaint with the Utilities Commission. North Carolina law gives renters options if charges are unreasonable or not clearly documented.²

How to Challenge Unreasonable or Incorrect Utility Charges

If a park tries to overcharge for utilities or fails to provide a clear bill, you have the right to challenge these charges. The steps are:

• Request a detailed breakdown of charges and copies of the utility bill from your park owner.
• Review your lease for billing method disclosures.
• Contact the North Carolina Utilities Commission if you believe charges violate rules.

Required Forms and How to Use Them

• Consumer Statement of Complaint (Form: Utility Complaint Form)
  Use this form to submit concerns about unlawful or excessive utility charges to the North Carolina Utilities Commission. For example, if your landlord is charging higher rates than the provider charges them, complete and submit this form online or by mail to start an investigation.
• Complaint for Recovery of Money Owed (AOC-CVM-100)
  If you need to dispute charges in Small Claims Court, use this court form to recover overpayment. AOC-CVM-100 form (PDF). File with your county’s small claims division.

Relevant State Law Covering Pass-Through Utilities

• North Carolina General Statutes § 42-10 – Obligations of landlords and tenants
• NCGS § 62-110(g) – Landlords providing water/sewer service

The North Carolina Utilities Commission is the official tribunal for utility billing concerns.

Always keep copies of your lease and billing statements. If you’re ever unsure, review your rights or seek advice before paying contested charges.

FAQ: Pass-Through Utility Charges in North Carolina Mobile Home Parks

1. Can my landlord charge me more than the utility company charges them?
   No, landlords must not charge more than the actual utility rates, except for a small administrative fee allowed by law.
2. How can I see if my bills are being calculated correctly?
   Request a copy of the park’s utility provider bill and review your lease for billing details. You may also contact the North Carolina Utilities Commission for help.
3. What should I do if I am overcharged?
   Document the charges, communicate with your landlord or park manager, and if not resolved, file a complaint with the North Carolina Utilities Commission.
4. Are there limits on administrative or service fees for utility billing?
   Yes, any extra administrative fee must comply with state law and should be outlined in your lease agreement.
5. Who handles complaints about illegal utility charges in NC mobile home parks?
   The North Carolina Utilities Commission is the main government body for these complaints.

Key Takeaways

• North Carolina law regulates how mobile home parks can charge for utilities.
• Charges must be transparent, based on actual costs, and disclosed in your lease.
• If you suspect you’re being unfairly charged, document your concerns and reach out to the Utilities Commission or Small Claims Court.

Knowing your rights empowers you to protect your household budget and ensure fair treatment from your landlord or park manager.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Carolina Utilities Commission: Consumer Complaints – For utility billing issues and complaints
• North Carolina Housing Coalition: Tenant Resources – Advocacy, education, and legal resource connections
• North Carolina Courts: Housing Disputes – Guidance on small claims and legal forms
• NC Attorney General: Resources for Renters – Know your legal protections and next steps

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1. See NC Utilities Commission’s Guide to Utility Billing
2. North Carolina General Statute § 62-110(g) – Utility Billing by Landlords

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