RUBS Utility Billing Rules for Oregon Renters

Understanding how utility costs are shared in rented homes is important for Oregon tenants. One common practice is RUBS (Ratio Utility Billing System). This article explains how RUBS works in Oregon, your rights, and what to do if you have concerns about utility charges.

What Is RUBS Utility Billing?

RUBS stands for Ratio Utility Billing System. Instead of each unit having a separate meter for utilities like water, sewer, or trash, landlords divide the total bill among tenants using a formula. Most often, the division is based on factors like the number of occupants, unit size, or number of bedrooms, not on actual usage for each unit.

How Landlords Use RUBS in Oregon

In Oregon, it's legal for landlords to bill tenants for utilities through RUBS, but there are important requirements:

• The billing formula and responsibility for paying must be clearly written in the rental agreement.
• Charges should reflect the actual costs, without added fees or profit for the landlord (except for allowed administrative costs).
• Landlords cannot disconnect core utilities (like water) for non-payment of RUBS bills.
• Oregon law does not require every unit to have its own meter, but it does set out rules for how shared utility bills can be allocated.

All rights and responsibilities are covered under the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[1]

Your Rights as a Renter Under Oregon Law

• You have the right to a written explanation of how your portion of utilities is calculated.
• Utility charges must be listed as a separate line item on your bill or invoice, not combined with rent.
• You have the right to request to see the actual utility bill, not just the portion billed to you.
• Landlords must provide notice before making any changes to utility billing methods.

It’s important to note that excessive or unclear utility bills can sometimes violate Oregon's housing laws. If you have questions or think you’re being overcharged, there are official steps you can take to resolve the issue.

Common Examples of Utility Billing Under RUBS

• Apartment with no separate meters: The water bill is split among all tenants based on the number of occupants per unit.
• Multi-family building: The trash collection costs are divided by square footage or number of bedrooms in each unit.

Relevant Forms for Oregon Renters

• Oregon Residential Rental Agreement (No formal number):
  This is the lease or rental agreement you signed when moving in. It must specify your responsibility for utilities and the method for calculating charges.
  Use: If you’re uncertain about your charges, review your copy. If your agreement is unclear, request clarification from your landlord.
  See official Oregon Residential Lease template.
• Tenant Complaint to Landlord (Informal Statement, not a state form):
  If you dispute a utility charge or request documentation, submit a written request to your landlord. Oregon law requires such disputes be made in writing.
  Example: "I am requesting an itemization and copy of the most recent water bill used to calculate my portion as listed in my monthly statement."
• Complaint Form - Oregon Department of Justice Consumer Protection:
  Renters may file a complaint with the Oregon Department of Justice if a landlord refuses to provide required information or is overcharging for utilities.
  File a consumer complaint online.
  When to Use: If your landlord persistently refuses to share utility bills or you suspect unlawful utility charges.

Which Tribunal Handles Landlord-Tenant Disputes in Oregon?

Legal disputes (including utility billing disputes) are handled in the Oregon State Circuit Courts for the county where the property is located. These courts hear landlord-tenant cases under the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[2]

What to Do If You Suspect Billing Errors

If you think you’re being overcharged or the billing method isn’t fair, follow these steps:

• Request a written explanation and copy of the landlord’s utility bills.
• Compare your charges with your rental agreement and Oregon law.
• Submit a complaint in writing to your landlord if there’s a discrepancy.
• If not resolved, seek assistance from Oregon’s Department of Justice or file a small claims case in your county’s Circuit Court.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is RUBS legal for utility billing in Oregon rentals?
   Yes, RUBS is legal as long as utility billing practices are clearly defined in your written lease and are in accordance with the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.
2. Can my landlord make a profit from RUBS utility billing?
   No, landlords may only charge tenants the amount actually billed by the utility, plus a reasonable administrative fee if it’s stated in your rental agreement. They cannot make a profit from utility charges.
3. How do I request proof of my utility charges?
   Send your landlord a written request for copies of the original bills and a breakdown of how your portion was calculated. Landlords are required by law to provide this information if requested.
4. Where do I file a dispute if my landlord doesn’t resolve my RUBS billing issue?
   If informal efforts and a written complaint don’t resolve the problem, file a consumer complaint with the Oregon Department of Justice or consider small claims in Oregon’s Circuit Court.
5. Can my landlord cut off my utilities if I withhold payment over a billing dispute?
   No, landlords cannot legally shut off utilities as a retaliation for nonpayment related to a billing dispute. Disconnection of core services is prohibited under Oregon law.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Oregon Renters

Understanding your rights with RUBS utility billing ensures fairness and transparency. Remember these main points:

• Your lease must clearly describe how utilities are billed.
• You can request billing details and supporting documentation.
• Disputes can be resolved through the Department of Justice or the Oregon courts if needed.

If you’re informed about your responsibilities and your landlord’s obligations, managing utility billing should be straightforward.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Oregon

• Full text: Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
• Oregon State Courts - Find Your Local Circuit Court
• Oregon Department of Justice – File a Consumer Complaint
• Oregon Housing and Community Services – Renter Resources

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1. The Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: ORS Chapter 90
2. Find your county's Circuit Court: Oregon State Circuit Courts

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