Wow, thank you all so much for your responses.

Hello Erik, I really appreciate the response.

I believe it is completely reasonable to have a clause in your lease that places a cap on utilities with any overage (proven by a bill) being the responsibility of the resident.Our clause states that any electrical bill (we don't have gas, and water has never been a problem) that is over double the same month's bill from last year will have the overage assigned as a fee.It is important to keep your bookkeeping straight if you do assess a fee.

I was pecking away on the iPhone but using the web browser so I could post photos. 

Thanks for your insightful response!

Thanks for your response @Michael Wentzel!

I appreciate your responses  @Makani Donaldson Leveraging your existing relationships will probably much easier than trying to find someone you don't already know agree to help you out.

It is a big responsibility that I am willing to take on for myself but not so much on behalf of a tenant. 

Since you mention you have a partner, setting up an operating agreement is key to defining roles, responsibilities, and profit splits to avoid conflicts down the road.A few key tips to protect yourself:✅ Use separate bank accounts and keep finances clean✅ Get the right insurance (general liability + builder’s risk)✅ Have a solid contract with contractors to avoid surprises✅ Always verify permits and city regulations to stay compliantI still strongly advise you to work with local professionals, I’m happy to point you in the right direction!

Quote from @Travis Timmons: Quote from @Travis Biziorek: Quote from @Travis Timmons: @Travis Biziorek Both of you had virtually identical 1, 2, 3 lists...just felt like it kicked back a response based on similar prompts.