OH HB422

Landlords and manufactured home park operators may require tenants or residents to pay utilities directly to the public utility, to the landlord/operator, or include a fixed amount in rent.

If utilities are billed by the landlord, park operator, or third party rather than the public utility, a submeter must accurately measure service and tenants cannot be charged more than the actual cost charged to the landlord/operator by the utility company.

Utility bills from landlords or park operators must include submeter readings (beginning and ending), dates read, and the rate charged to the tenant or resident.

Landlords, park operators, and third parties are prohibited from charging tenants administrative fees, late fees, or other charges related to utility service provision or payment.

Tenants may sue for double damages, injunctive relief, and attorney's fees if violations occur; damages include either total utility charges improperly billed during the violation period or total fees charged in violation of these requirements.