How do the utilities work at HomeRoom? 

Utilities are prorated and split evenly among tenants. While there is a fixed monthly pre-charge of $140, the prorated amount will be calculated at the end of the month and the difference will either be charged (if it’s over $140) or credited to the tenant's account (if it’s less than $140).

If a member of the household doesn’t pay their utility bill or it’s overage, the other tenants will still be responsible for paying the full bill equally. Note that if a tenant does not pay their rent or utility bill on time, this will result in an eviction. The remaining tenants will then be billed for the evicted tenant’s unpaid portion of the utility bill the 20th of the following month.

Example:

Day 1, Month 1 = Bob pays $140 for utilities prepayment for Month 1.

Day 30, Month 1 = Bob receives a notification from Livable portal that he is owed a credit of $30 for utilities.

Day 1, Month 2 = Bob pays his $140 utilities prepayment for Month 2.

Day 20, Month 2 = Bob's roommate, Jeff, is evicted for not paying his rent and utilities. The remaining roommates split the $50 overage that Jeff owed for Month 1, the 5 roommates are each is billed $10.

Day 20, Month 2 = Bob has a $20 credit applied to his HomeRoom account, the net between his credit from month 1 of $30, and the bill for the overage that Jeff did not pay of $10

 

It’s important to make sure that everyone living in the house is aware of and understands the policy to avoid any misunderstandings or conflicts. 

Here are some tips to help mitigate high utility bills and adopt energy savings habits:  

  • Unplug electronics when not in use, even if they are switched off

  • Share and assign responsibilities! Someone can ensure all lights are off at night, someone can monitor the thermostat usage, etc  

  • Encourage housemates to find additional tenants so that the utilities are lower for all

  • Prepare and budget for summer. Higher temperatures result in higher AC usage

  • Encourage your roommates to pay their rent and utilities on time so you can get the largest credit possible - next month

 

Electric Vehicle Charging Policy

In the interest of fairness in utility cost distribution among our residents, the charging of electric vehicles within the property premises is not permitted at this time. This policy is in place to ensure that the utility costs, which are prorated and shared among tenants, reflect the regular residential consumption without the significant additional costs associated with EV charging.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in adhering to this policy. It is designed to protect the interests of all residents and ensure that our utility-sharing arrangements remain fair and consistent.

HomeRoom Roommate Living. Perfected.