Extra water usage in small apartment building

[Robert Lindsley]

Hi there,

Yesterday I received a call from the water company that my building water usage was 2x the normal amount.  After researching the issue I discovered a tenant’s toilet has been broken for a month and has been leaking water the entire time.  He did not inform me of this issue.

I don’t think I should be responsible for this water usage (especially since the tenant has a sweetheart deal of $300/mth).  The additional water and sewer usage is $440.85.  Am I within my rights to go after him for this additional amount?

The building is a 7-unit building and has had two units vacant for the past month.

Thanks!
Robert.

[Frank Chin]

I do not know what the procedures are where you are.

I'm in NYC, and had a toilet leak resulting in higher water bills. I had a plumber come, fix the leak, then inform the water department. They then adjusted the bill. The thing to remember is it had to be a licensed plumber.

I'm not sure you would have much luck getting after the tenant. See if the water department will adjust the bill.