Feeling frustrated as you try to figure out utilities at your rental property?
Sacramento has owner-owning utility billing, which means those water bills have to be in your name, even if a tenant is living at your property and using the water.
You can’t ask your tenant to pay your HOA bills directly, either. That’s going to remain in the homeowner’s name, no matter who is living there.
As
Sacramento property managers, we’re asked to figure out utilities all the time. This is what we can tell you.
What is Owner-Only Utility Billing?
Owner-only utility billing is a system where the landlord manages and pays for all utilities related to the rental property, rather than passing this responsibility on to tenants. This includes utilities like water and garbage collection.
Instead of fluctuating utility bills confusing tenants, landlords can set a fixed rental price that factors in the costs of these utilities.
For many
Sacramento landlords, it’s a way to simplify operations while maintaining stronger control over utility usage and costs. But it can also be a hassle.
Best Practices for Owner-Only Utility Billing in Sacramento
As the property owner, you’re ultimately responsible for the water bills and any other utilities that have to be kept in your name. Consider the following best practices to maximize benefits and minimize struggles.
Analyze Historical Utility Bills
Review the past 12 months of utility payments for your property. This will give you a baseline to estimate averages and factor an appropriate amount into your all-inclusive
rent rate.
Invest in Efficiency Upgrades
Sacramento’s sunny climate makes energy-efficient appliances and solar panels a smart investment. Over time, these upgrades can reduce your utility bills while benefiting the environment.
Work with a Sacramento Property Management Partner
Managing utilities for
multiple rental units can quickly become overwhelming. Partnering with a Sacramento property management company can simplify operations and ensure utility payments are handled efficiently.
HOA Fees and Owner-Only Billing
By taking charge of HOA fee payments, property owners can ensure timely and accurate payments, maintain a strong relationship with the HOA, and provide a seamless and hassle-free experience for their tenants.
We know dealing with owner-only systems within Sacramento can be challenging, and we’re here to help. Please contact us at Sacramento Delta Property Management. We’ve been working with owners and investors to effectively lease, manage, and maintain investment properties for more than 40 years.
