Buying Electric Fireplaces

My Electric Meter Is Connected To Two Apartments And I’m Footing The Bill, Who’s Responsible For What?

My power bill has steadily climbed the whole 10 months I’ve lived at my one bedroom apartment. I use a laptop about 5 hours a day at most, rarely tv and use CF 20W bulbs. I do not pay for electric heat (I have gas heat and fireplace) I do not pay for hotwater, nor do I have a washer/dryer. I had PSE come out to test my meter and everything was working correctly, then he shut off the main breaker to shut off all power the meter was feeding. Someone came out and said their power wasn’t working and so we discovered I’ve been paying for two apartments power. He said that his power was included in the rent so the apartment managers are responsible, and he uses EBB heating so that is why it climbed so high. There is no way to tell who used what since it all feeds into that one meter that I pay for.
So should I ask the Landlord/managers for 50% compensation or for 100% or something else since there is no way to tell who used what on the power?

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November 24th, 2009 | Posted In Electric Fireplace FAQ
  1. Comment by lolliela
    November 24, 2009 @ 8:03 pm

    I would immediately request that you be put on a separate meter.
    I think you should ask that you be reimbursed for at least 75% of what you paid. That may be more than the power you used, but you have been inconvenienced.
    You might even ask for free rent for a month (or two). If he does compensate – get him to sign something stating
    1. he is getting another meter put in
    2. Paying you funds you are entitled to (if he should do that)
    3. if you get free rent as reimbursement – definitely get it in writing that he has agreed to this. Otherwise, he may say you did not pay rent for that time period.
    If the landlord does not co-operate in any way – I would contact an attorney.
    What does your electric bill say: For example:
    “Service at _______ Street, Apt. #______”?
    I own a rental and pay one of the bills there and when that bill comes to me it states the address and then “garage”.

  2. Comment by budhah1
    November 24, 2009 @ 8:32 pm

    Something not right here, nor is it fair.. You should never have to pay for neighbors electricity. If not seperate meters then the LL should be putting the bill. or dividing it up between the two of you.
    This is a simple case of fraud. The land lord is breaking the law, I would assume.
    I am a land lord and would never do this,, I have had places I bough rewired to be assured that each tenant has their own meter..
    This happen a lot on water meters, and usually the LL would pay that bill.. Not many will pay electric.
    Tell him you want re-imbursed, and the meter replaced and separated, or you will go to the city attorney and file charges.. NOT A SUIT, but criminal charges.

  3. Comment by 1JD-5har
    November 24, 2009 @ 10:54 pm

    My name is jerry. I can put you in touch with a person who can answer that for you ,but let just say that u’r landlord say pay s the ele. for you tell him u refused to pay since u r paying for 2 familys you will only pay 50 percent.it is illegal for any one individual to turn your power off, he may own the power he does not own the meter. If he does call the police and he may be responsible for 75 percent of it. DO CALL YOUR LOCAL UTILITY/GOV. AGENCY!!!!!!

  4. Comment by Ron Berue
    November 25, 2009 @ 3:40 am

    Before jumping the gun, I would contact the electric company and request a survey or a confirmation of service – in writing. [I'm sorry, the correct terminology escapes me.]
    This will substantiate your claims.
    Once you get that information, you can send a copy to the landlord or manager, with your requests.
    Thanks for asking your Q! I enjoyed answering it!
    VTY,
    Ron Berue
    Yes, that is my real last name!

  5. Comment by Phil
    November 25, 2009 @ 5:29 am

    Landlord should either include your electric in the rent or spring for having things re-wired to two separate meters.

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