Flat Chat Strata Forum Rental rants Current Page

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  • #76437
    AnPo88
    Flatchatter

      Hello all,

       

      just today we’ve been notified that from this month on we’re to be billed the electricity costs for running the centralised aircon quarterly.

      i have a few problems with this as was never disclosed that the aircon was covered by the landlord and was a “privilege” and included in the rent.

      now they are saying there are some meters near the aircon condenser that will record the usage. This will then be sent to the strata manager to produce invoices for the lot owners. Then it’s up to the lot owners to charge the tenant.

      if this is true, then I have no idea why my electricity was so high during Feb-Abril when it was really hot and had it on most days. Then again in winter. Or why the electricity spikes on the app on the days we’re WFM and using the aircon.

      anyone with a similar set up?. I am freaking out!

       

      thank you!!!

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    • #76489
      kaindub
      Flatchatter

        I think the landlord will have a hard time to claim this

        In NSW a landlord can only pass on utility costs if they are metered.

        For example on a water bill the landlord can pass on the water usage and waste water charges, but not the supply charge

        I think the strata manager is also doing it wrong. For centralised amentities, the “bill” is paid thriough levies , that are paid by all lot owners. You cant just divide up a bill and separately pass on to lot owners. Thats what ythe administrative fund is for

        Thirdly, is its not in your rental agreement, its not a charge that can be passed on by the landlord.

        Push back. You wont have any argument from NCAT

         

         

        #76493
        Jimmy-T
        Keymaster

          In NSW a landlord can only pass on utility costs if they are metered.

          It looks like meters have been added, according to the OP, but you’re right, if it’s not in the rental contract they can’t charge for it.

          The opinions offered in these Forum posts and replies are not intended to be taken as legal advice. Readers with serious issues should consult experienced strata lawyers.
          • This reply was modified 1 month ago by .
          #76547
          AnPo88
          Flatchatter
          Chat-starter

            Hi.
            thank you.

            They said this charge used to be covered by the levies as you say. However, at the most recent AGM they opted to have the lot owners billed separately – apparently there have always been meters for each unit there.

            We don’t have access to that room, so can’t confirm.

            I asked around other neighbours (also renters) and they have not been notified of such change – one of them is month to month, and no changes for them either.

            Another unit is on the market for rent and I enquired with the agent, and he said it’s to be covered by the LL in their case.

            i am mostly worried of retaliation comes renewal time.

            Thank you!

            #76549
            AnPo88
            Flatchatter
            Chat-starter

              Yeap, they say those have always been there, but the cost would be added to the levies instead of being separately charged (new resolution at the AGM).

              I can’t tell for sure they’re there not can check with a 3rd party as they’re not part of the National Network either. I am worried of the accuracy of these meters.

              My immediate neighbours haven’t been billed nor notified of the charges either.

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