San Antonio Duplex w/ common water meter...thoughts?

[Miles Stanley]

I analyzed and offered on a duplex today.

I noticed in the MLS summary that it has a common water meter for the property. I did some reading on BP and it seems it is rather common for the landlord to pay the water bill in SA. I'm not under contract yet, and I will obviously have the opportunity to review the current leases to see if its factored in the rent somehow, but how do other landlords account for this bill? The thought of paying someone else's water bill frightens me since they have zero incentive conserve water.

I suppose i could sub-meter, but that can be costly and then i become a meter-reader (not interested).

I'm afraid I did not account for paying the water bill in my analysis...it would hurt cash flow some, but i would still be positive...just wouldn't hit the ROI i require. My gut says to turn it back on the tenant somehow...but how?

Thanks,