Water/sewage Fee on Top of Rent

[Karl Kauper]

Hi All — I’m an out-of-state investor and own a 12-unit MF in the Cleveland area. My building is not separately metered for water/sewer, so I pay those expenses. Does anyone know how common that is (for the owner to have to pay instead of the tenants)? Also, any opinions re: should I add an extra water/sewer fee to cover this cost or simply increase the rent? Btw - it’s cost prohibitive for me to separate the plumbing , so that’s not an option. Thanks! - Karl

[Andrew Weiner]

There are specific municipalities in the Cleveland area that prohibit a water and sewer fee because they are not individually metered.  You should check on your specific location to make sure you even have the option.