Expensive electricity bill or dodgy ex-housemates?

Question

My boyfriend moved out from a place over a month ago, but agreed to still cover any outstanding bills. He paid around $100 when he left, for rates or something. They've just told him they want another $240; $180 for electricity and $60 for water. That seems to be a lot of money. Its a 4 bedroom house, with 3 of them sharing it, plus one of them has a child there every second week. His share should be a third of the bill but that makes the quarterly bill nearly $600. Are they trying to rip him off, or if not, how have they racked up such a large bill? We've already determined that they are probably asking for the full 3 months instead of the 2 months he was there. But how do we account for the rest of it?

Answer 1

Just tell them you need a copy of the bills for your records and cannot pay it until you get the copy.  Once you get a copy you can figure out what the amount should be for yourselves.  If they refuse to give you a copy you can assume they were lying, but eventually they will probably produce one to get the actual (probably lower) amount he does owe.

Answer 2

It depends on how well it's insulated, how hot it is and how often you're running the AC, etc.  Ask to see the bill or call the utility company to request a copy.  All residents should be on the bill; if you're not, ask to be added, so you can have access to this info.

Answer 3

Simple .... Just ASK to see a the ORIGIONAL bill before paying anything ....

And; it all depends upon the location of the property , how well insulated that it is , if it has storm equipment, how old the furnace / air conditioning , refrigerator, freezer, hot water tank etc are .... as older apppliances mean higher utility bills ....

Also; How much are televisions , fans, ect used ..... ?Lights left on and what are the bulbs wattage .... ?

There are MANY reasons for a High utility bill .... But; as I said earlier ... ALWAYS see the bill before paying it !!