Baltimore County Property with Balt City water - can tenant pay?

[Mike Geier]

I'm renting out my first property in baltimore county this month. The residence uses baltimore city water.

I was told by someone that landlords must pay water bills and that they cannot be transferred to tenants in Maryland.  Is this true?

[Joe Norman]

First, a note that all public water and sewer in Baltimore County is provided by Baltimore City -this in't really an issue but just a heads up in case you're under the impression that your situation is unique.

Second - what @Jamie Bateman said.  You can't actually transfer bill into the tenants name (it stays with the homeowner), but anyone can pay it.  Personally I forward the bill to my tenants and they pay it.  If a subsequent bill shows that the previous one has not been paid then I will start paying the bill and invoice the tenant, plus a late fee.  I do NOT change the billing address to go directly to the rental home because I want to open each bill and confirm that they are being paid (since they are in my name and will become liens on the property if not paid).