‘It kept adding up’: how add-on utility fees can lead to eviction for tenants
Summary
In 2024, Constance Soule, a disabled tenant in California, faced eviction because she could not pay extra utility fees charged by her landlord on top of her rent. This situation reflects a growing problem where tenants owe additional utility costs called Ratio Utility Billing Systems (RUBs), which can cause eviction even if regular rent is paid.Key Facts
- Constance Soule received a 10-day eviction notice due to unpaid utility fees, despite paying her rent.
- RUBs are extra utility charges billed by landlords or third parties, not directly by utility companies.
- These fees are often not clearly listed in lease agreements or apartment ads.
- Many eviction cases for nonpayment involve tenants unable to pay RUBs.
- Some cities in California and other states have banned or regulated RUBs to protect tenants.
- Tenant groups in cities like Los Angeles and Seattle have protested by refusing to pay these fees.
- A Colorado study found RUBs were the most common extra charge for over 1,100 tenants facing eviction.
- Apartment industry defends RUBs as a way to fairly divide utility costs in buildings without individual meters.
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