Living in a multi-family building has its perks, like community and shared amenities, but it adds complexity to utilities like electricity. Unlike single-family homes with private meters, multi-family units use building-wide meters for communal energy tracking.
As a Boston property owner or condo board member, understanding these meters is essential for fair billing, cost monitoring, conservation, and resolving tenant issues.
That’s why Pro Services Boston put together this guide on common electric meters in multi-family homes. Below, we’ll shed some light on multi-family electricity.
Understanding Common Electric Meters
Let’s shed light on common electric meters in multi-family homes. Separate meters for individual units and a common meter are needed due to shared spaces like hallways and basements.
The goal is to avoid tenants paying for utilities meant to be covered by the property owner.
Initial Assessment and Electrician Intervention
Pro Services Boston begins its property management journey with a thorough examination of the number of meters in a property. The emphasis is on having the right number of meters—each unit having its own, plus one for the common areas.
If discrepancies are found, an electrician is called for a quote on necessary adjustments.
Securing a Public Meter
To fix meter counts, Pro Services Boston gets a public meter through the electric company. This involves obtaining a permit, submitting it to the national grid, and proceeding with installation.
It’s important to connect all common area lighting to the common meter to prevent unjust expenses for tenants.
City Inspection and Tenant Protection
After installing the public meter, a city inspection follows. City inspectors test the system by turning off all lights connected to the common meter to ensure tenants don’t pay for shared space utilities.
Property owners are warned of legal issues if tenants discover discrepancies, urging proactive prevention.
Elevate Your Property with Proactive Maintenance
Understanding common electric meters is important for a harmonious relationship with tenants and avoiding legal complications.
For proactive property maintenance, trust Pro Services Boston. Their commitment to meticulous meter management ensures fair treatment for tenants and protects your investment.
With expertise in the Greater Boston area, Pro Services Boston works closely with property management companies, landlords, and condo associations to optimize building performance.
