How Virginia Renters Can Dispute a Water Bill

If you’re renting a home or apartment in Virginia and notice issues with your water bill—like unexpected charges, errors, or unclear fees—it can be confusing to know how to respond. Understanding your rights and the steps you can take will help you address water bill disputes fairly and confidently. This guide highlights water bill dispute options for Virginia renters using clear language and links to official resources.

Understanding Water Bill Responsibilities in Virginia Rentals

Before disputing any bill, it’s important to know who is responsible for paying and managing water service. In Virginia, responsibilities usually depend on your lease agreement and whether your landlord or you (the tenant) have the account with the utility company. Always review your signed lease for utility terms.

  • Landlord pays water: You may see water fees included in your rent or as a separate itemized charge.
  • Tenant pays water: You are typically billed directly by the water utility.
  • Ratio billing or submetering: Renters may be billed for water based on building usage and apartment size, or by individual water meters.

The Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA) gives tenants the right to clear billing and notice regarding utilities, and sets rules for charges and dispute resolution.[1]

Common Reasons Renters Dispute Water Bills

Some common grounds for water bill disputes in Virginia include:

  • Miscalculations or clerical mistakes in billing
  • Charges for periods you did not live at the rental
  • Lack of access to actual meter readings or transparent billing details
  • Sudden spikes in bill amounts without explanation
  • Billing for leaks or plumbing issues outside your control

Document the issue clearly when you believe there is a mistake.

What to Do If You Disagree With Your Water Bill

If you receive a water bill that appears incorrect or unfair, follow these steps:

  • Review your lease and previous bills for context.
  • Ask your landlord or property manager for a written breakdown or meter reading, if you do not already have one.
  • Contact your water utility provider for an explanation of charges.
  • Put your concerns in writing to both the landlord (if applicable) and utility company.
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If communication doesn’t resolve the dispute, you may consider taking formal steps as outlined below.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

Tenant’s Request for Explanation of Utility Charges

Form Name: Tenant’s Request for Utility Bill Explanation (sample form - DHCD)

When to use: Use this form when you need the landlord to provide a breakdown of utility charges, as required under VRLTA § 55.1-1212. Example: If your bill unexpectedly doubles and you want proof of meter readings or calculation details.

How to use: Fill out the form with your information and the specific billing period in question, then send it via certified mail or email to your landlord for a documented record.

Filing a Complaint with the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC)

For many water utilities in Virginia (especially regulated municipal and investor-owned systems), unresolved disputes can be escalated to the State Corporation Commission (SCC) Utility Complaint Division.

Form Name: Utility Complaint Form

When to use: If your utility company is unresponsive or will not correct a clear error, and you have already tried to resolve it directly.

How to use: Complete the online Utility Complaint Form with your details and supporting documents.

If your water bill issue is related to a housing code violation or a utility shutoff, you may also contact your local code enforcement office or the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development.

Relevant Tribunal for Tenant Disputes

Formal disputes over landlord-tenant issues, including water bill charges linked to your lease, may be heard by your local General District Court in Virginia. This is the court handling residential tenancy matters, such as escrow actions and payment disputes between renters and landlords.[2]

Court involvement is usually a last resort. Mediation services may be available to help reach a compromise before legal proceedings.

Timeline and Tips for Disputing Water Bills

  • Act quickly after you receive a questionable bill; some providers have short dispute windows (e.g., 30 days).
  • Always keep copies of all correspondence and bills.
  • Do not withhold rent unless advised in writing by the court—unauthorized withholding can lead to eviction proceedings.
  • If the issue is urgent (like imminent water shutoff), communicate your circumstances to all parties and ask for extra time while the dispute is resolved.
For complex utility disputes linked to your lease, free legal help may be available from statewide tenants’ rights organizations or legal aid services.

FAQ: Water Bill Disputes for Virginia Renters

  1. Can my landlord charge me for water if it’s not in my lease?
    If your lease does not mention water charges or utility billing, the landlord typically cannot require you to pay for water separately, unless you agree to a new written arrangement.
  2. What should I do if my water bill suddenly spikes?
    Immediately request an explanation in writing and ask for supporting documentation, such as meter readings or justification for increased use. Unexplained spikes can sometimes result from leaks or clerical errors.
  3. Can I withhold rent until the water bill dispute is settled?
    No. Under Virginia law, you must pay rent as usual unless a judge orders otherwise. Filing a written complaint and using escrow procedures through court is advised before withholding any rent.[1]
  4. Who do I contact for help if my landlord or utility won't resolve the issue?
    You can file a complaint with Virginia’s State Corporation Commission Utility Complaint Division, or consider small claims action through General District Court for landlord-tenant disagreements.
  5. Are there protections against shutoff during a billing dispute?
    While there are limited statewide shutoff protections, most water utilities require notice before disconnection. Always communicate with your provider and seek help from local code enforcement if you face immediate shutoff.

Key Takeaways for Virginia Renters

  • Carefully review your lease and any bill before disputing a water charge.
  • Use official forms and written documentation to support your case.
  • If you cannot resolve the dispute, contact the SCC or General District Court for further action.

Understanding your rights and acting promptly can make a big difference in resolving utility billing concerns.

Need Help? Resources for Renters


  1. Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA)
  2. Virginia General District Courts overview
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Renter Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.