Should I get a 4th meter on my triplex?

[Liana Hedberg]

I bought my first triplex in Luck, WI 1 1/2 years ago.  Each unit is metered separately which is great!  However, I am the only one that has access to the basement (this is where all the utilities are).  In the winter I run a small heater to keep the pipes from freezing and in the summer I run a dehumidifier.  In the basement, I have the option of plugging into either unit 1, 2 or 3's outlets.  I worked out a deal with unit 2 to use theirs and I compensated them a set amount to run my heater and dehumidifier.  I got a quote from my electrician and it would cost $4,700 to install a 4th meter.  I feel like I have 3 options:  Get the 4th meter installed, include electric in unit 2's rent going forward OR work out another deal with the new tenant that moves in?  I'd appreciate your thoughts on this.  Thank you. 

[Richard F.]

Aloha,

You can probably just get an Electric Meter Socket to monitor the actual usage on whichever outlet you utilize, then "read" it on a regular basis, crediting your Tenant the actual usage cost.

See if one of these would solve your issue:

https://www.amazon.com/Best-Se...

Be sure to prepare an Addendum to the Rental Agreement to document the details of how and when you will determine the charges.