Include water bill in rent?

[Cameron Schmahl]

Hello everybody!

I’m in the process of buying my first duplex (which will be my first rental ever) and have a quick questions about utilities.

I will be living in the upper unit while I am inheriting and trying to keep the downstairs tenants.

Question——

The previous owner gave them quite a deal on their rent which included all utilities. (Gas, water, electric)

While I don’t feel comfortable going the same route in the case they would take advantage of high heat or lights on 24/7.

I want to have them pay for utilities, looking around online and even a few rentals in the area, it seems like it’s common to have the landlord pay for water. The City I live in the water bill includes water/sewer/garbage.

Just curious if this is common for most people here to pay for tenants water, all utilities or none at all?

Thanks!