How to get a landlord to split water bill proportionately for 2-units? 1 tenant vs. 3-5 tenants.

Question

How does a tenant get a non-cooperative landlord to split the water bill proportionately?  One building with two units has a single water meter.  One half of the duplex has only had 1 resident for multiple years.  The other half has always had 3-5 adults and/or children with brief 3-5 month period of only 2 adult tenants.  However, the landlord has always burdened the single tenant with 50% of the water bill.  The lawn is also twice the size for the more crowded unit and the tenants are required to water the lawns.  The more crowded unit also has older, non-water saving dishwasher and clothes washer, as well as non-water saving shower heads.  The single tenant cannot possibly be using half of the water used by the building.

James L. Arrasmith · Answer

It sounds like you're facing an unfair situation with the water bill being split evenly despite the significant difference in water usage. In California, landlords are expected to bill tenants for utilities in a fair and reasonable manner. 
 
First, review your lease agreement to see what it says about utility billing. If the agreement doesn't specify how the water bill should be divided, you might have grounds to negotiate a more equitable arrangement. 
 
Consider communicating your concerns to your landlord in writing, explaining the discrepancies in water usage and suggesting a proportional split based on occupancy or usage estimates. If the landlord remains uncooperative, you may want to reach out to a local tenants' rights organization or seek legal advice to understand your options under California law. They can provide guidance on how to proceed and ensure your rights are protected.

Q: How to get a landlord to split water bill proportionately for 2-units? 1 tenant vs. 3-5 tenants.