Last Updated: June 2026
Utility management software helps businesses and property managers monitor, control, and optimize rental properties utility consumption, including electricity, water, gas, and other services. These platforms provide detailed analytics and reporting features that allow for efficient tracking of usage patterns, identification of inefficiencies, and implementation of cost-saving measures. By integrating utility management software into their operations, organizations can achieve greater sustainability, reduce operational costs, and improve overall energy management practices.
Top 10+ List of Rental Property Utility Management Software
Utility management software enables efficient monitoring, analysis, and management of utility consumption and costs across multiple sites, facilitating energy savings and operational optimization. Below we take a look at the most popular rental property software for managing utilities:
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What is the Best Utility Management Software?
Nutiliti
Why We Like Nutiliti – Nutiliti is our top pick for its unique features such as real-time consumption tracking, automated bill splitting, and personalized tips for reducing utility costs. The platform not only simplifies the management of multiple utility accounts, but also empowers users to reduce consumption and save on utility costs.
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What is Utility Management Software?
Utility Management Software Definition
Utility management software is a digital platform designed to optimize the monitoring, control, and analysis of utility usage and costs, facilitating improved energy efficiency and cost savings for organizations.
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Rental Property Utility Management FAQ
What is RUBS (Ratio Utility Billing System)?
The Ratio Utility Billing System (RUBS) is a method commonly used by landlords and property managers to allocate utility costs among tenants. In multi-family properties or apartment complexes, it can be challenging to determine individual utility usage. RUBS addresses this by apportioning costs based on factors such as unit size, number of occupants, or a combination of these. This method is beneficial in properties without individual utility metering. However, landlords need to comply with local regulations and be transparent with tenants about this billing method to avoid potential disputes.
10 Common Rental Property Utilities
In the realm of rental properties, utilities represent a significant consideration for both landlords and tenants. These services not only provide necessary comforts and conveniences but also factor into the overall cost of renting. Here’s a list of typical utilities associated with rental properties:
Electricity
Powers lighting, appliances, and other electric devices in the property.
Gas
Often used for heating, cooking, and sometimes for water heaters.
Water
Essential for hygiene, cooking, and sometimes for heating in properties with a boiler.
Trash & Recycling
Collection and disposal of waste and recycling materials.
Internet
Provides connectivity for tenants and is increasingly seen as a basic utility.
Television
Although not as essential as others, it’s sometimes included in rental properties, especially furnished ones.
Sewer
Covers the cost of wastewater removal.
Heating/ Cooling
In some properties, heating and cooling may be a separate utility, especially in regions with extreme climates.
Landscaping
Especially for single family rental properties with yards that require regular upkeep.
Snow Removal
For rental properties in regions with heavy snowfall, these costs can be significant.
What is the Average Price for Utilities?
Average utility prices can vary based on many different factors such as property size, age, and occupants. According to Move.org, the list below is a compilation of the average monthly utility cost for American residents as of 2021:
Electricity: $117.46
Natural gas: $61.69
Water: $45.44
Sewer: $66.20
Trash: $25–$100
Internet: $59.99
Phone: $114
Streaming services: $48.25
US total: $538.03–$613.03
Methods to Decide Who Pays for Utilities – Landlord or Tenant
Rental property utilities are usually paid by either the landlord or tenant. Deciding who pays them is a strategic decision that can significantly impact a property’s bottom line and tenant appeal. While it may seem simple to have the tenant pay them all, various factors like local market conditions, property type, and tenant expectations also play a role into the decision. Below are 4 commonly used methods to determine who will pay for utilities:
- Utilities Included with Rent: This method provides simplicity for tenants, as they pay a flat rental rate without worrying about fluctuating utility costs. This can make your property more appealing to potential tenants, but as a landlord, you take on the risk of increased utility usage.
- Separate Monthly Utility fee: This involves estimating the monthly cost of utilities and charging tenants a fixed fee. This can make budgeting easier for both parties, but it may require adjustments if utility costs significantly rise or fall.
- Tenants Responsible for all Utilities: This places the burden of utility costs and conservation directly on the tenants. While this reduces risk for the landlord, it may dissuade potential tenants who prefer an all-inclusive rent or are considering another competing property that does include utilities.
- Hybrid Model: This is a mix of the methods above. For example, the landlord could include some utilities in the rent, like water and trash collection, while the tenant pays for electricity and gas. This method seems to work the best as it strikes a fair balance between utility responsibilities.
What Utilities Do Landlords and Tenants Usually Pay?
When it comes to managing utilities in rental properties, the responsibility can often be divided between landlords and tenants. The division depends largely on the rental agreement, property type, and local legislation, but generally, certain trends can be observed. The chart below compares common utilities and who usually pays them.
| Utility | Typically Paid by Landlord | Typically Paid by Tenants |
|---|---|---|
| Water & Sewage | Yes | No, but some multifamily properties may bill proportionately |
| Electricity | No, except for all utilities included properties | Yes |
| Natural Gas | No, except for all utilities included properties | Yes |
| Trash & Recycling | Yes | No, except for some single family rental properties |
| Landscaping | Yes | No, except for some single family rental properties |
| Internet, Cable, Telcom | No, except for all utilities included properties | Yes |
Commercial Property Utilities?
Commercial real estate utilities encompass a broad range of services that are critical for maintaining the operational efficiency and comfort of commercial spaces. Unlike residential properties, commercial utilities can be more complex and potentially include services like waste disposal, security systems, and specialty services related to the business type. The allocation of these utility costs can be a crucial part of lease negotiations, often depending on the type of commercial lease in place, such as net leases or gross leases. Furthermore, energy-efficiency measures and green certifications can significantly impact utility costs and appeal to environmentally conscious tenants.
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About the Author
Ryan Nelson
I’m an investor, real estate developer, and property manager with hands-on experience in all types of real estate from single family homes up to hundreds of thousands of square feet of commercial real estate. RentalRealEstate is my mission to create the ultimate real estate investor platform for expert resources, reviews and tools. Learn more about my story.