RUBS Utility Billing: What North Dakota Renters Need to Know

As a renter in North Dakota, you may encounter a utility billing system known as RUBS, or Ratio Utility Billing System. Understanding how RUBS utility billing works can help you manage your costs and advocate for your rights. Let’s break down what RUBS means for renters, what state law says, and what steps to take if you have concerns about your utility charges.

What Is RUBS Utility Billing?

RUBS stands for Ratio Utility Billing System. It’s a method some landlords use to allocate utility costs (such as water, sewer, or garbage) among tenants based on a formula instead of using individual utility meters. The most common formulas are based on the number of occupants, square footage, or number of bedrooms.

How RUBS Billing Works in North Dakota

• Your landlord receives the total building utility bill from the provider.
• Instead of dividing costs by unit, an allocation formula (like square footage or headcount) is used to determine each tenant’s share.
• The cost may be added as a line item on your monthly rent bill, or you may receive a separate statement.

North Dakota does not prohibit the use of RUBS, but state law requires that all utility billing practices be clearly stated in your written lease agreement.

What North Dakota Law Says About Utility Billing

In North Dakota, rental relationships are regulated primarily by the North Dakota Century Code, Chapter 47-16: Landlord and Tenant.¹ This law says landlords and tenants can agree on how utilities are paid as part of the lease, but:

• The lease must clearly describe how utility costs are calculated and allocated.
• Your landlord must provide accurate statements and cannot charge more than the actual cost incurred.
• Landlords are prohibited from disconnecting utility service to force payment or as a form of eviction.

If you are unsure whether your lease includes a RUBS clause, review your contract or request a copy from your landlord. If utilities are being billed separately—or you receive a bill using a ratio or allocation method—it likely uses RUBS.

Your Rights Under RUBS and What To Watch For

While RUBS is legal in North Dakota, your rights as a renter include:

• The right to a transparent lease outlining all utility billing methods.
• The right to request an itemized statement for your utility charges.
• The right to question or dispute charges you believe are inaccurate or unfair.

Relevant Forms for North Dakota Renters

• Notice of Complaint (Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division)
  • When to use: If you believe your utility billing is unfair, deceptive, or not disclosed as required in your lease, you may submit this form to the North Dakota Attorney General’s Office for investigation.
  • How to use: Fill out the Consumer Complaint Form and attach copies of your lease, bills, and correspondence.
• General Civil Complaint (Small Claims Court Form SF-14-02-09)
  • When to use: If your landlord will not address a billing dispute, you may file this form in district court to seek reimbursement.
  • How to use: Access and submit the Small Claims Court forms following the official court instructions.

If you experience problems with your utilities or questions about billing, you can contact the North Dakota Courts system or reach out to the North Dakota Attorney General’s Consumer Protection & Antitrust Division for assistance.

Steps To Take If You Have a RUBS Utility Billing Concern

Is something wrong with your utility bills or the allocation seems unclear? Follow these practical steps to resolve your issue:

• Review your lease to confirm how utilities should be billed.
• Request a copy of the calculation formula and itemized billing from your landlord.
• Voice your concerns in writing and ask for a response within a reasonable time.
• If problems persist, submit a formal complaint to the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division.
• You may also seek mediation or pursue small claims court if you believe the charges are unlawful or in violation of your lease.

All residential tenancy disputes, including utility billing, may ultimately be handled by the regular court system in North Dakota. There is no separate tribunal; contact your local District Court for filings.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is RUBS utility billing legal in North Dakota?
   Yes, as long as it’s clearly disclosed in your lease and not used to overcharge tenants.
2. What if my lease does not mention RUBS billing?
   Your landlord cannot charge you using RUBS unless it’s in the written lease agreement. If this happens, document the issue and communicate with your landlord. If unresolved, file a complaint with the Attorney General's office.
3. Can my utilities be shut off if I dispute a RUBS bill?
   No. Landlords are prohibited from shutting off utilities to force payment or evict tenants under state law.
4. How do I dispute an incorrect utility bill in North Dakota?
   Start by communicating with your landlord in writing and requesting an itemized statement. If not resolved, you can file a formal complaint with the North Dakota Attorney General or through small claims court.
5. Who oversees landlord-tenant disputes in North Dakota?
   Residential rental disputes are handled by the North Dakota District Court system; there is no dedicated housing tribunal.

Conclusion & Key Takeaways

• RUBS utility billing is permitted in North Dakota if your lease describes it in detail.
• You are entitled to transparency and accurate, fair billing practices.
• If you suspect illegal or unfair charges, use written communication and official complaint forms to protect your rights.

Knowing your rights and state laws around utility billing will help you manage your rental experience with confidence.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Dakota Courts: Legal Self Help (Housing) — Guidance on rental disputes and filing actions
• ND Attorney General’s Consumer Protection — Complaint form and advocacy
• ND Century Code Chapter 47-16 — Landlord and Tenant Law
• Local Legal Aid: Legal Services of North Dakota

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1. North Dakota Century Code, Chapter 47-16: Landlord and Tenant
2. North Dakota Attorney General Consumer Protection
3. North Dakota Courts: Housing Self-Help

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