Landlord Advice And Suggestion Regarding Tenant High Water Bill

[Mat K.]

Greetings to anyone reading this.

I’ve got a recent situation with a tenant regarding a leaking toilet bowl. And wondering how to handle it as a novice landlord.

I got a call from the city water department regarding high usage in one of my fourplex. I immediately sent out a text to all tenants to check for any overflowing taps, leaks in the apartment and instructed them to shut off any overflowing toilets. I only heard back from 3 out of 4 tenants.

I Had the plumber go to apartment the next day and check all apartments. He determined that the only tenant I did not hear back from had the issue with a leaking toilet bowl. Fast forward a week later and I get a bill of 420$ from the city. Triple the regular amount for each months water bill. Wasn’t too happy about that to be honest.

Not sure how to address it with the tenant since she failed to notify me about the leak. She’s been an exemplary tenant up until now. Always pays on time, even during covid. Regardless, most likely the leak Came from her apartment.

I’m considering paying for it this time but making all tenants sign a note I have to be alerted to any leaks within 4 hours of any leaks if not they’ll be responsible for any additional usage. Thanks for any feedback.

Cheers Mat