Nightmare Warning: don’t let utility inspect to shared meter

[Justin V.]

Hello All,

I have a minneapolis duplex from 1931 which is separately metered with a shared basement that is separately wired for each unit. Each unit has their own laundry, light circuit, and outlets permitted in 2019.

I’ve never seen a landlord meter on a duplex in minneapolis.

Tenants in unit 1 were complaining that there are some electric baseboard heaters in the basement on their panel which never usually run. (Unit 2 turned one on due to a cold laundry room). I explained this is typical of an old duplex. They wanted the local electric company to do an inspection, which I assumed would result in them being told the same thing. Big mistake.

The utility company declared both units to be shared meters: Unit 1 because of the baseboard heaters and unit 2 because there’s a dehumidifier (unit 2’s dehumidifier) plugged into their outlet. Transferred both accounts into my name plus any balance owed which turns out to be $5000 for my unit 2 tenant. I don’t have landlord agreements on any properties.

I was made aware of this via a bill in late March. No report or prior call. I keep having to call the 800 number and they keep not letting me talk to people who can do anything. One manager called back and left a useless voicemail while I was still talking to his underling. They wouldn’t tell me the issues or share the report on the property. They eventually sent a letter which I attempted to call and challenge today: 800 number again. It’s a nightmare and I have at least a full 8 hrs into this so far. It’s frustrating and I’ve been very angry on several occasions now. Post another 40 minute 800 number call just now, another manager has been sent an email with my phone number.

TL:DR utility company claims my basement meters are shared, transferred accounts into my name plus an overdue balance of $5000 for 1 tenant and I can’t talk to anyone important.