How Rhode Island Renters Can Dispute a Water Bill

If you rent in Rhode Island and receive a water bill you believe is incorrect or unfair, it’s important to know your rights and options. Water bill disputes can happen for many reasons—such as leaks, faulty meters, or unclear billing. This guide explains what Rhode Island law says, what steps you can take, and where to get official support.

Who Is Responsible for the Water Bill in Rhode Island Rentals?

Responsibility for utility payments, including water, is decided by your rental agreement. Under the Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, your lease or rental contract should state who pays the water bill and whether the landlord or you (the tenant) arrange for payment.^[1]

• Check your lease: If your agreement says the landlord pays, you cannot be billed directly.
• If the rental agreement is silent, Rhode Island law generally expects the landlord to supply water and include the cost in your rent.
• If you pay separately, the agreement should explain how the amount is calculated (for example, by submeter or by unit).

Common Water Bill Disputes for Rhode Island Renters

Disputes over water bills can arise due to:

• Unexpectedly high bills (possibly from leaks or incorrect meter readings)
• Lack of itemized billing or unclear calculations
• Bills for periods when you did not live in the unit
• Charges for shared or common-area usage without clear division

If you notice a problem, it’s important to act promptly and communicate in writing to preserve your rights.

Steps to Resolve a Water Bill Dispute in Rhode Island

Start by gathering your lease, recent bills, and any communication about utilities. Here are actionable steps to protect yourself and resolve the issue:

• Review your lease or rental agreement for utility clauses.
• Contact your landlord in writing to explain your concern and provide evidence (photos or meter readings, if any).
• Request a copy of the original water bill from the utility or landlord.
• Check if there are leaks or maintenance issues causing high usage.
• Keep all documentation of your communications and bills.

If your landlord does not respond or resolve the dispute, Rhode Island law gives you further options as detailed below.

Filing a Utility Complaint or Seeking Mediation

If you cannot settle the dispute through communication, you may file a utility complaint or seek help through state agencies:

• Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers (DPUC): Handles complaints about regulated utilities, including billing issues.

To file a complaint:

• Use the official DPUC Utility Complaint Form (no form number). Submit online or print and mail in.
• Describe the dispute, the amount billed, steps taken, and attach evidence (emails, bills, photos).
• The DPUC will investigate and notify you of the outcome.
• For disputes with your landlord (not the utility), you may seek assistance through the Rhode Island District Court – Small Claims Sessions or Rhode Island Housing.

Official Forms Used in Water Bill Disputes

• Utility Complaint Form (no number): Submit to DPUC when you believe the utility’s (such as a municipal water provider) bill is wrong or unfair. Example: You were charged for water usage during a period you did not live in the unit. Download the official form (PDF).
• Statement of Claim (District Court Small Claims Form): Used to initiate a small claims action if you seek reimbursement for a water bill paid in dispute with your landlord. Find instructions and the form through the Rhode Island District Court Small Claims site.

It’s always wise to try resolving disputes directly, but these forms give you additional avenues if needed.

Rights Under Rhode Island Law

The Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act protects tenants from unfair utility billing and sets out rules about water and other essential services.^[1] Landlords must:

• Provide essential services (including water) unless the lease says otherwise
• Ensure any submetering or billing structure is lawful and clearly explained
• Not disconnect or threaten to disconnect water as a way to force payment

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What if my landlord won't fix a leak that's causing high water bills?
   Notify your landlord in writing and request repairs promptly. If they don't act, you may be able to seek assistance from Rhode Island Housing or use the court's "repair and deduct" remedy allowed under the law.^[1]
2. Can my landlord bill me for water if my lease doesn't mention it?
   Generally, if the lease is silent, the landlord remains responsible for supplying water. Billing tenants separately is only allowed if the lease clearly states this arrangement.
3. How do I contact the utility or file an official complaint?
   For issues with the water company, contact the Division of Public Utilities and Carriers and use their complaint form. For landlord disputes, Rhode Island District Court's Small Claims sessions handle rental disputes.
4. Can my landlord disconnect my water for non-payment of a disputed bill?
   No, landlords in Rhode Island cannot legally cut off essential services to force payment or eviction. Service shutoff is regulated and only possible through formal legal processes.
5. Where can I get more help understanding my rights?
   Resources like Rhode Island Housing, District Court, and the DPUC can offer clear guidance, mediation, and legal information. See the support section below.

Key Takeaways for Rhode Island Renters

• Check your lease to understand responsibility for water bills.
• Document any dispute and try to resolve it with your landlord first.
• You have the right to file a complaint with the Division of Public Utilities or pursue small claims if needed.

Remember, official agencies and courts exist to protect Rhode Island renters facing utility billing issues.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Rhode Island Division of Public Utilities and Carriers – File utility complaints and receive billing support
• Rhode Island District Court – Handles small claims, landlord-tenant actions, and disputes
• Rhode Island Housing – Offers rental help, resources, and tenant guidance
• Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Official Legislation)
• For direct support, call Rhode Island Housing at (401) 457-1234 or the DPUC at (401) 780-2100.

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1. Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – View full text
2. Division of Public Utilities and Carriers – Utility Complaint Resources
3. Rhode Island District Court Small Claims – Official information
4. Rhode Island Housing – Rental Help Center

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