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Updated about 12 years ago,
New Tenant - High Water Bill
Have a situation that I am trying to figure out the best resolution.
Bought a house with a large lot in July 2012. Spent two months cleaning, fixing, renovating inside and outside.
During the process I replaced all the sprinklers (some were broken some clogged I tested everything out), I also redid landscape and put in all new sod.
Then I rented it out. The renter moved in 2 days after I laid new sod.
Lease stated renter is responsible for paying all utilities. I told him during lease signing that I have the lawn sprinkler timer on and since it's new sod, it's going to take more watering initially, and he is paying for the irrigation since it's city water.
When I was doing the renovation my water bill was about $60. I hardly used any water. Pretty much that was just all the standard fees (which includes water, sewer, garbage etc...)
I had the sprinklers set to water once every day, 7 days a week, 15 minutes each zone and there are 4 zones during that first month.
Now the water bills come and it's $300.
He said that is excessive. I tend to agree with him.
I am not sure what part of that $300 is due to my irrigation since I don't know his "normal" consumption rate.
I have dialed back the timer to water now only 10 minutes on MWF.
There is also a possibility of a leak, but I doubt it.
Any recommendation on what's the best way to handle this?