RUBS Utility Billing Rules for Texas Renters

Are you a Texas renter curious about how your apartment bills you for utilities? Many Texas apartments use RUBS (Ratio Utility Billing System) instead of separate meters for each unit. As a renter, it's important to know what RUBS is, your legal protections, and where to go for help if you feel you're being overcharged.

What is RUBS Utility Billing?

RUBS stands for "Ratio Utility Billing System." Rather than measuring your actual water, sewer, or gas use, your share of the building's total utility bill is calculated based on formulas—like number of occupants or square footage.

• Utilities are not individually metered for your unit
• Landlords or third-party billing companies divide the bills among tenants
• Your bill may change monthly depending on building usage

This method is common in older Texas properties that can't be individually metered for each apartment unit.

Is RUBS Billing Legal in Texas?

Yes, RUBS billing is legal in Texas if certain rules are followed. Texas law regulates how landlords must handle utility submetering and allocation billing through the Texas Water Code, Section 13.505 and Public Utility Commission of Texas Utility Submetering Rule¹. Key requirements include:

• Lease disclosure requirement: Your lease must state that utilities will be allocated using RUBS, and specify the exact calculation method.
• PUC notification: Landlords must file a written statement of utility allocation with the Texas Public Utility Commission (PUC).
• No profit: Landlords cannot charge more than what the utility provider bills the entire property.
• Access to records: You have the right to request and review the utility bills and allocation records from your landlord.

Common RUBS Calculation Methods

In Texas, common formulas include:

• Number of occupants per unit
• Square footage of your apartment
• A mix of both

Your lease should make it clear which formula applies. If you find this information missing or confusing, request your landlord clarify, as they are required by law to disclose it in writing.

Your Rights as a Renter with RUBS Billing

As a Texas renter living under RUBS utility billing, you have these rights:

• Written disclosure about the RUBS system, method, and any administrative fees
• Access to utility records (upon written request)
• Protection from overcharging or charging more than the apartment's real utility cost
• The right to challenge inaccurate charges or calculation errors

Can You Dispute a RUBS Utility Bill?

If you believe you've been overcharged or if the calculation method is not what your lease said, you should first contact your landlord in writing and request copies of:

• Utility provider bills for the whole property
• The breakdown showing how your portion was calculated

If the issue is not resolved, Texas renters can file a written complaint to the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) for further review.

Relevant Forms and How to Use Them

• PUCT Utility Complaint Form (No number): If you are unable to resolve a dispute over RUBS billing directly with your landlord, you can file a complaint online or by mail with the Texas Public Utility Commission.
  Example: If you notice unexplained surcharges or the calculation method doesn't match your lease, fill out this form to request a PUC investigation.
  Official PUCT Utility Complaint Form

You do not need a lawyer to file this complaint. Attach any supporting documentation (utility bills, lease pages, correspondence).

Which Law Governs RUBS Utility Billing in Texas?

The main rules come from the Texas Water Code Section 13.505: Submetering and Nonsubmetered Billing and Public Utility Commission Rule 24.124. These cover landlord obligations for disclosure, bill calculation, dispute handling, and tenant protections.^1,2

Where are RUBS Disputes Heard?

The Public Utility Commission of Texas handles complaints about utility billing in multi-family residences, including RUBS.

FAQ: RUBS Utility Billing for Texas Renters

1. Can my landlord increase administrative fees or change RUBS methods?
   If your lease is fixed-term, your landlord generally cannot change the calculation method or increase fees until lease renewal. Any change must be disclosed in writing and, if your lease auto-renews, you must get notice at least one billing cycle in advance.¹
2. How do I know if my unit is on RUBS or submetered?
   Check your lease—it must specify whether your utilities are billed by submeter or allocation (RUBS). If unclear, ask your landlord for a written statement as Texas law requires this disclosure.¹
3. What can I do if I suspect I'm being overcharged?
   Request in writing a breakdown showing your share and the master utility bill. If unresolved, file a complaint with the PUCT Utility Complaint form.
4. Can my utilities be shut off for nonpayment of a disputed bill?
   No, Texas law protects tenants from having essential utility services disconnected solely because of a dispute if you have filed a complaint in good faith.²

Conclusion: What Every Texas Renter Should Know

• Under Texas law, RUBS utility billing is legal but must follow strict disclosure and calculation rules.
• Always get the calculation method in writing and regularly request supporting records if bills seem high.
• You can ask the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) for help if billing disputes aren't resolved directly with your landlord.

Knowing your rights helps ensure you are charged fairly and transparently.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Texas Public Utility Commission Utility Complaint Form – For complaints about RUBS and utility billing.
• Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) – Main agency for utility billing rules and complaints.
• Texas Water Code Section 13.505 – Official statute on RUBS and utility billing.
• Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs – General tenant rights and renter advocacy resources.

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1. See: Texas Water Code, Section 13.505 and PUCT Rule §24.124
2. PUCT Utility Complaint: PUC Utility Complaint form and resources

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