Can a landlord charge renters for utilities using RUBS in North Carolina?

Yes. Landlords may use RUBS billing for certain utilities, like water and sewer, as long as the billing formula is disclosed in your lease and fee caps are followed.

How can I dispute an incorrect RUBS bill from my landlord?

Begin by discussing the bill with your landlord or property manager in writing. If the issue isn't resolved, you can file a complaint with the North Carolina Utilities Commission using their official form.

Is there a limit to administrative fees for RUBS billing in North Carolina?

Yes. The administrative fee for RUBS water and sewer billing is capped at $3.75 per unit per month.

What law covers RUBS utility billing in North Carolina?

RUBS billing is governed by North Carolina General Statutes Chapter 42 (Landlord-Tenant Act) and Chapter 62-110(g), plus related Utilities Commission regulations.

Who handles disputes about utility billing for renters in North Carolina?

The North Carolina Utilities Commission is the official tribunal responsible for handling complaints and disputes about RUBS and other utility billing issues.

RUBS Utility Billing Rules for Renters in North Carolina

Utilities, Services & Billing North Carolina published June 21, 2025

If you rent an apartment in North Carolina, you might see a separate charge each month for utilities like water or trash—even if your unit doesn’t have its own utility meter. This is often due to a system called “RUBS” (Ratio Utility Billing System). Here’s what North Carolina renters need to know about RUBS utility billing, your rights, and what to do if you have concerns about your utility charges.

What Is RUBS Utility Billing?

RUBS stands for Ratio Utility Billing System. Instead of each unit having its own utility meter, landlords divide total utility costs among all units in the building based on factors like square footage, number of bedrooms, or occupants.
This system is most commonly used for water, sewer, and sometimes other services in multifamily properties.

Key Features of RUBS Utility Billing

No separate meters: Utilities are not directly metered to individual apartments.
Charges split by formula: Landlords use a formula (based on unit size or people) to split the total building’s bill.
Usually for water, sewer, and sometimes trash or gas: RUBS can’t be used for electric service in North Carolina rental housing.1
Disclosure required: Landlords must disclose how utility charges are calculated and provide key information in your lease.2

If you have questions about how your charges are calculated, you have the right to request more information from your landlord or utility billing company.

What North Carolina Law Says About RUBS Utility Billing

The main law covering landlord-tenant relationships is the North Carolina General Statutes Chapter 42 – Landlord and Tenant. Specific rules for utility billing, including RUBS, are found in North Carolina General Statutes Chapter 62-110(g) and related state utility commission regulations.3

Important Rules for RUBS Utility Billing

Written explanation: The lease must state exactly how utility charges are calculated and what formula is used.
Monthly statement: You must get a monthly statement for each utility bill.
Fees limited: Administrative fees for billing are capped at $3.75 per unit per month for water/sewer.4
Notice of changes: Any changes to RUBS formulas or fees require advance notice.
Disputes: You can file a complaint with the North Carolina Utilities Commission.

Always check your lease and monthly statements. If you suspect errors or unfair charges, take action promptly.

Tip: If you’re unsure how your RUBS utility charges were calculated, ask your landlord for a copy of the billing formula and the current utility bills for the property.

Key Forms and How to Use Them

North Carolina Utilities Commission Complaint Form

Form Name: Utilities Public Complaint Form
When to use: If you cannot resolve a dispute over RUBS billing with your landlord, use this form to file a complaint about your utility billing or service.
Practical renter example: You notice your water bill seems unusually high compared to other tenants or your lease doesn't explain the calculation. You first raise the issue with management, but it isn't resolved. You then may fill out this official form.
Submit a Utility Complaint (NC Utilities Commission)

Your Rights and Steps If You Have RUBS Billing Problems

If you believe you’re being improperly charged, here are steps you can take:

Review your lease: Make sure it explains the utility billing method and formula clearly.
Request documentation: Ask your landlord for copies of the building’s utility bills and the calculation formula.
Communicate in writing: Address concerns with your landlord or property manager in writing and keep records.
File a complaint: Use the Utilities Commission Complaint Form if needed.
Contact support agencies: State and local agencies can guide you or help if there’s no resolution.

Taking these steps helps you protect your rights and ensures any disputes are documented.

FAQs About RUBS Utility Billing in North Carolina

Can a landlord charge renters for utilities without separate meters in North Carolina?
Yes, but only for certain utilities like water/sewer, and only if the method is fully disclosed in your lease. Electric service cannot be billed this way.
How can I challenge an incorrect RUBS utility bill?
First, contact your landlord or property manager in writing. If not resolved, file a complaint using the Utilities Commission Complaint Form.
Is there a fee limit for RUBS utility billing?
Yes. The administrative fee for allocating water/sewer costs is capped at $3.75 per unit per month, as set by North Carolina law.
Where can I find the law governing RUBS billing?
See G.S. 62-110(g) and the Water Utility Regulations (NC Utilities Commission).
Who oversees utility billing disputes in North Carolina?
The North Carolina Utilities Commission is the state body that handles these disputes.

Conclusion: What North Carolina Renters Should Know

RUBS utility billing must follow state rules for disclosure, fee limits, and fair calculation.
If you question your charges, start by reviewing your lease and communicating with your landlord, then escalate to the Utilities Commission if needed.
Always use written communication and official forms to protect your rights as a renter.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

NC Utilities Commission Complaint Page – for filing RUBS utility billing and service complaints.
North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC) – official tribunal for utilities and billing disputes.
North Carolina Housing Coalition – renter assistance and advocacy.
NC Department of Justice Tenant Rights – guides and legal resources for North Carolina tenants.
Find Your Local Court – for local small claims court information if other resolution attempts fail.

See North Carolina Landlord-Tenant Act and NC Utilities Commission Water Utility Regulations.
NC Utilities Commission Water Utility Regulations spell out disclosure and billing statement requirements.
Governing law: G.S. 62-110(g) (RUBS and master meter regulation)
Administrative fee limit detailed at § 62-110(g)(2a): Statute text