Energy bills: tenant or landlord responsible?

Allocation of energy charges

The tenant always pays their individual consumption. Common charges are recharged via the lease’s charge provisions.

Meters and contracts

Individual meters

If the property has individual meters, the tenant takes out their own energy contract:

• Free choice of supplier
• Direct billing to the tenant
• Meter readings at move-in and move-out

Shared meters

If there are no individual meters, energy is recharged by the landlord:

• The landlord takes out the contract
• Costs are split among tenants (per allocation key)
• The tenant pays monthly provisions with annual adjustment

Meter readings

For the property inventory, the meter reading is mandatory.

Charge provisions

Provision system

The lease may provide for monthly provisions on charges:

• The tenant pays a fixed amount each month
• An annual adjustment compares actual costs to provisions
• The balance is refunded or claimed

Flat-rate system

Some leases provide for a flat rate:

• Fixed amount, no adjustment
• The landlord cannot claim a supplement
• The tenant cannot request a refund

Supporting documents

The landlord must provide supporting documents for charges upon the tenant’s request. In co-ownership, the management agent’s statement serves as the basis. See our guide on co-ownership.

In case of a dispute

Excessive bills

If the charge provisions seem excessive:

1. Request supporting documents from the landlord
2. Compare with actual consumption
3. Check the allocation key
4. In case of disagreement, refer to the justice of the peace

Previous tenant’s debts

If a supplier claims debts from the previous tenant:

• Provide the meter readings from the day you moved in
• Provide a copy of the lease with the move-in date
• Contest the billing by registered letter

Energy savings

A good EPC score reduces your bills. Check the EPC before renting and see our guides on tenant rights and leases and contracts.