Outrageous Electric Bill Dispute

[p0ndsk1pp3r]

Jurisdiction

Missouri

The home we were living in had an electric water heater that turned out to be faulty, running all the time leaking hot water out of the house. It was replaced at the end of the month, and we just got our final electric bill. It stated our usage was 5,451 KWH (as opposed to our 1000-1200 KWH usage) and there was no change to our habits. We feel the water heater is the only way that could've caused this obscene amount of usage. Do we have any right as tenants (or ex-tenants) to have the landlord cover the difference caused by the faulty water heater? I have statements and the rental agreement for reference if needed, this was in Missouri.

 

[adjusterjack]

When did you notify the landlord that the water heater had a problem?

How long after you notified the landlord did he have it replaced?

I don't see the landlord being liable for anything unless he failed to replace the heater within a reasonable amount of time.

Some times bad things happen for which nobody is at fault but you still have to pay.

See if the water company will cut you some slack. There is no obligation but some times they do.

 

[zddoodah]

Do we have any right as tenants (or ex-tenants) to have the landlord cover the difference caused by the faulty water heater?

Well...why do you think the landlord should cover this? Did the landlord do some intentional act that caused the heater to leak? Or was the landlord aware of a problem with the heater and failed to take action to fix the problem?

Other questions:

Was the electric bill in your name or your landlord's name?
Did the landlord have any access to or control over the heater during your tenancy?