Unfair Utility Billing Concerns

Summary

In Colorado, tenants are generally responsible for utilities they directly consume. If youre being charged commercial rates or for a shared meter without clear lease terms, you may have a valid concern. The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) regulates utility rates and services and may assist you. Consulting a local attorney for personalized advice is also recommended.

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I spoke with my property manager, and she stated we have a shared meter. Also, I was charged at commerical rates instead of residential rates. So, my water bill for one month was $*. Is this legal in Colorado?
In Colorado, charging residential tenants commercial rates for utilities may be against the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) regulations. Furthermore, shared meter situations should be disclosed, and charges should be proportionate. You may want to contact the PUC or a local attorney for advice.
Do you think I can take legal action even though my lease states I have to pay for all utilities and I can not request for a reimbursement? What's a PUC?
You may be able to take legal action if you're billed unfairly. PUC is the Public Utilities Commission, a regulatory agency overseeing utilities in Colorado. They may assist with your concern. Also, consider consulting a local attorney for guidance.
My lease indicates,TENANT shall pay for all utilities used on the Premises throughout the term of this lease, except as otherwise noted herein. Tenant shall place all utilities in their name as of the first day of the term on this lease. Tenant shall timely pay all utility charges for utility services throughout the term of this Lease or the last day of possession, whichever is later. Tenant shall execute a 3rd Party Notification form no later than 1st day of occupancy. On any utility in Paragraph *.*. that is regularly billed to Landlord and paid by Tenant, Tenant agrees to pay a mark-up fee in the amount of two percent (*%). Landlord is not responsible for the consequences resulting from the interruption of service. Landlord shall not be liable for any claim of damages, proximate or remote, or charge or refund of any kind whatsoever on account of such failure to furnish the services and facilities here in above set forth. Landlord shall not be responsible for any damages caused by interruption of services due to storm, fire, acts of God, civil disturbances, order of any government authority or any other reason beyond Landlord’s control. Should utility bills exceed the average cost of use due to faulty or failing systems (such as plumbing leaks) Tenant shall hold Landlord harmless from any claims for reimbursement. Landlord shall not be obligated to supply electric light bulbs or replacement thereof. Upon vacating Tenant will arrange for a final reading of meters for services with the utility companies to close out his/her account. Tenant shall instruct the utility provider to continue utility service to the Premises and shall not turn off utilities to avoid damages to the property. Tenant shall be responsible for damages that may result in failure to supply the necessary utility services. Should Tenant fail for any reason to place utility services in its name(s), Tenant shall Additional Rents of $*.* per utility bill or notice from utility provider received by Landlord and forwarded to Tenant. Tenant shall immediately pay the amount of each such utility bill. Food spoilage or any other damage to Tenant’s personal property due to failed electrical or appliances will be at Tenant’s expense and not Landlord’s expense. "
Based on your lease, it seems you are responsible for the utilities. However, if you're being unfairly charged, you may have a case. The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) could assist you. It's advisable to consult with a local attorney.
Yeah even though it states all utilties it does not clarify the usage or shared meter
You're right, the lease should clearly state the situation with shared meters. It's best to consult a lawyer or contact the Colorado Public Utilities Commission for guidance on this matter. They regulate utility rates and services within the state.