UTILITIES

It is important to specify which party will be responsible for each utility and/or service that benefits the property. The lease should also address how and when the utilities will be paid, and provide specific instructions if necessary. For example, "the tenant is responsible for two-thirds of the electric bill, payable to the landlord within five days after receipt of the statement from the utility company."

Some services must be supplied by the landlord, at the landlord's expense, by state law. For example, some states require that the landlord make available receptacles for garbage and other waste. Check with an attorney or a local housing authority if you have questions about what utilities or services the landlord must provide.