Is Utilities deposit ok?

[Chanitnan K.]

Currently the duplex has 1 water meter. If a landlord add sub-meters to each unit, and charge water cost to each tenant, the landlord is still responsible for the water bill if the tenant doesn't pay. Is it ok to take deposit on water, and deduct from that if the tenant doesn't pay?  And if the tenant doesn't maintain the deposit amount, can the landlord evict them?

Thanks!

[Greg Scott]

The answer really depends on your state and local laws and varies from place to place.

Rather than worry about two deposits, an easier way (if you can do it) is simply collect a larger security deposit and make sure your lease includes unpaid water bills as something that can be deducted.

The best solution is to have a great property and find great tenants who pay their bills.