Roommate Utility Payment Dispute

Summary

If a lease specifies that tenants are responsible for utilities, all tenants on the lease must pay, regardless of whose name is on the bill. You may use the security deposit to cover unpaid utilities if the lease or a separate agreement allows it. Document all communications and agreements regarding the security deposit and utilities. Consider consulting a local attorney for advice specific to your situation.

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stacy
Hey Stacy! What legal issue are you facing? Feel free to share some details so I can provide the best information.
my roommate, Nico, in California is moving out. she owes $* in utilities. she is on the lease. the lease states tenants are responsible for the utilities. she has been paying regularly until she fell behind. she is not on the bill I am. she states she does not have to pay the utilities because her name is not on the bill, mine is. the original tenant who she took the place of 3 years ago paid the landlord their security deposit. when the original tenant moved out Nico paid the original tenant the security deposit. because she paid the original tenant the security she is now stating that I cannot hold the deposit to use for the utilities and that the tenant that is taking her place should send her their deposit. can I still not give her the deposit back and use it to pay the utilities?
Hey Stacy! Here's some general information that might help you:
- Since Nico is on the lease, she is responsible for the utilities as stated in the lease agreement, regardless of whose name is on the bill.
- You may be able to use the security deposit to cover unpaid utilities, especially if it's agreed upon in your lease or a separate agreement.
- It's a good idea to document all communications and agreements regarding the security deposit and utilities.
You might want to consult with a local attorney for advice specific to your situation. Do you need help finding a lawyer in your area?