Apartment charging us utility vacancy fees?

[Dansby_UK]

Hi everyone,

I recently moved into a new apartment and just got my first utility bill. To my surprise, there was a line item for utility vacancy fees. I have never encountered this before in any of my previous apartments.

Can someone explain what this fee is and if it is common or even legal for apartments to charge it? Should I be concerned or contest this charge? Any advice or similar experiences would be greatly appreciated.

[Notalegalexpert]

@Dansby_UK

Can someone explain what this fee is and if it is common or even legal for apartments to charge it? Should I be concerned or contest this charge? Any advice or similar experiences would be greatly appreciated.

Have you asked around the neighborhood to find out if such charges have been paid by other tenants? or is it specific to only you? Also, was the charge indicated in your lease agreement?