Looking to separate utilities in DC

[Maggie B.]

Hi all, 

Just bought a SFH with a finished basement apartment in DC. We would like to get a CofO (which it seems almost no one actually does in DC!). This is looking pretty pricey the more I get quotes and I'd appreciate any advice from someone who has done this.

I was recently quoted $4000 just to separately meter the electrical. We have a 200amp service (more than enough for the needs of the house) and were told that to separately meter we would have to get a heavy up permit for 250amps and then install a separate sub-panel for 50 amps for the basement unit. Fortunately the wiring is already on separate circuits for the basement, so no re-wiring needed. 

I was told by a co-worker that we can install a submeter on the sinks and shower and then take readings ourselves and figure the bill for the tenant. She says that is what she does for her basement apartment (which she says has a CofO). 

Anyone know of companies that can do all the submetering? Or what else is required for the CofO? 

Thanks!

[Cynthia Hartley]

Hi Maggie,

You should definitely get a C of O to protect yourself from future tenants suing you. It is not that they may not try to sue you, rather that if you are not "legal" in DC, you will have no legal recourse. Don't forget to also get a business license. The notion that others are not getting a C of O means that they are leaving themselves open to massive lawsuit and loss of revenue.

That said, renting an accessory dwelling unit in DC - in the long term - should provide you with a return on your investment, if you separate the electrical and gas. No need to sub-meter water - it is not possible to have separate meters. Just calculate 1/3 vs 2/3 or any allocation that is deemed fair in the rental situation.

I just converted a 3 br/1 ba into a 3 br/1.5 ba with a 1 br/1 ba accessory basement apartment. It was a full gut job, but in the long term, it is worth it.