Let’s face it. As a renter, utility bills are already a large chunk of your monthly expenses. And when you add submetering into the pictures, it can seem like the bills skyrocket out of control. But before you get anxious, we’re going to talk about the rights of tenants and why submetering can be a good thing, even beneficial to you when done right.
What is Submetering?
Submetering just means installing individual meters for each unit in a building in order to monitor individual consumption. Instead of one big bill that the property manager breaks into smaller ones (based on averages and estimates), you are billed for the specific amount you use, measured by your individual meter.
Addressing Anxiety
We understand changes can be scary, especially when it comes to your money. So let’s address some common concerns.
- Will my cost increase? Increasing costs is a significant concern, especially for those with a flat rate fee included in their rent. With submetering, you are only paying for the utilities you use, which can be a money-saver if you are mindful about your consumption.
- How does it promote fairness? Submetering means everyone pays what they use. Large families or those with inefficient appliances won’t contribute to your expenses.
- Who has access to my data? Submeters only track utility usage, not personal activities. Landlords typically access your meter readings for billing purposes and can provide you with a breakdown of your usage.
Benefits for Tenants
The main purpose of submetering is to promote billing fairness. By installing a submeter for each unit, it ensures you only pay for the utilities you actually use. For those who are mindful of their consumption, this often leads to lower utility bills.
Submetering also provides a detailed breakdown of your usage, helping you locate any inefficient appliances or other areas of high consumption. Knowing your consumption amounts often promotes conservation methods, which can also save you money in the long run.
Making It Work For You
Submetering makes managing utilities easier. A few tips to manage your consumption and potentially save money are:
- Unplug Electronics: “Sleeping” electronics are still using power. Unplug all charges, appliances (that can be unplugged), and electronics you are not actively using.
- Embrace New Habits: Easy changes like switching off lights, taking shorter (and colder if possible) showers to reduce hot water usage. Using LED light bulbs or even better, natural light, will help cut down on usage.
- Washing on Cold: Modern detergents clean just as effectively in cold water. Make the switch and save some energy.
- Talk to Your Landlord: Have concerns? Open communication is key, and you have rights. Ask them to provide you with a monthly breakdown of usage and other resources to understand your consumption. In addition, verify who is responsible for repairs and maintenance of the submetering system as well as the process for disputing charges.
Submetering = Win-Win!
When submetering is implemented fairly, it can be a win-win for both parties. Taking time to understand the system and managing your usage, you can potentially save money on your utilities, simultaneously fostering environmental responsibility. Don’t forget to ask questions and leverage your rights as a tenant to ensure a fair and efficient submetering system in your building.
