Landlord Paying for Utilities for their Tenants

[Dylan Huynh]

Hey BP,

I am in the process of buying my first rental property and it is a triplex in upstate New York. Prior to making an offer, I've discovered that the current landlord pays for utilities for current tenants. The tenants are month to month and they would like to live on the property for as long as possible. My concern is that people tend to take advantage of utility usage when it isn't included in their rent. I would like have them pay for utilities to prevent excessive use of appliances/ heat/ AC. Should I raise the rents and risk losing the tenants? Do I have the utilities be included in their current rent, if so, how do I approach it. Mostly looking for different perspectives and ideas.

 I appreciate all responses in advance.