“Hydro Included” Doesn’t
Mean All Utilities Are Covered
The sub-metering trap and how to write your lease correctly ↓
One of the most common lease disputes I see in new condo rentals: tenants thought “hydro included” covered everything — then received a $278 winter bill from Provident Energy. Here’s the real breakdown, with actual bill data, and how to write lease terms that prevent surprises.
🌸 Spring (Metergy): $107/month — electricity $43 + hot water $37 + service fee $27
❄️ Winter (Provident): $278/month — electricity $53 + heating $189 + hot water $36
A tenant who budgets $100/month for utilities will be $178 over budget in winter. This information must be disclosed in the lease.
“The Tenant is responsible for all utilities billed directly by [Provident Energy / Metergy / name of company], including electricity, heating, hot water, and cooling. The Landlord is responsible for the condo corporation monthly fee which includes [specify what’s included]. Hot water heater rental ($X/month, Reliance/Enercare) is the responsibility of [Landlord/Tenant].”
① Which sub-metering company serves this building?
② What were the monthly utility bills for the past 12 months?
③ Is the hot water heater owned or rented — and who pays the rental fee?
Utility costs are one of the biggest hidden variables in rental budgeting. Get the answers in writing before you sign.
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