Lease Agreement Water Charges

Summary

In Ohio, landlords cannot alter the terms of a signed lease until it expires. If your lease states that tenants do not pay for water and sewer, the landlord cannot start charging for these utilities mid-lease. If they insist its non-negotiable, document all interactions, consult a local lawyer or legal aid service, and consider filing a complaint with Ohios Attorney General. Legal assistance can help clarify your rights and potential remedies.

Full Conversation

I’m a currently 4 month into a 12 month lease and I received a written notice that starting next month we will be charged for water and sewer, although the lease states that the tents t does not pay water and sewer.
Hello Ashley, could you please tell me which state you are located in? Laws regarding lease agreements can differ from state to state.
Ohio
Hello Ashley. In Ohio, landlords can't change the terms of a signed lease until it expires. So, they can't start charging for water and sewer if it's mentioned in the lease that they won't. If they persist, you may have legal recourse.
What should I do if They are saying it’s non negotiable?
If they insist it's non-negotiable, consider the following steps:
- Document all interactions
- Consult a local lawyer or legal aid service
- File a complaint with Ohio's Attorney General
Legal assistance can help clarify your rights and potential remedies.