Can I reject to pay utilities until the landlord shows me original bills?

Your situation may be a contract between roommates for the sharing of expenses, or it may be a landlord-tenant relationship, or it may be both. More information will be needed to reach a conclusion on that preliminary question and thus analyze your situation.

From a landlord-tenant perspective, a Massachusetts landlord of residential property is required to provide the fuel for heat and hot water, plus water, electricity and gas all at the landlord's expense, even if there is a verbal agreement for the tenant to pay. Any or all of these costs can be shifted to the tenant, however, if a written letting agreement so provides and if certain conditions are met. The obligations are different for different utilities.

If the matter is one dealing merely with an agreement between co-occupants then any inquiry begins with the terms of the agreement. Was it in writing or verbal and what was agreed upon? For instance, in your written agreement or verbal discussions was it agreed that the landlord would not have to pay more for utilities than she paid the previous year?

Perhaps most important is the relationship of the co-occupants. Were you friends prior to moving into the apartment? Is this something that you can talk through?

If so, you should work it out. If not, or if you cannot work it out, you need to make an appointment to see an attorney.

Best Wishes on working it out amicably.

Daniel T. Blake

This response and the information contained herein are not intended to form an attorney-client relationship. The answer provided is based solely on the few facts presented in the question and represents at most a preliminary and hypothetical response. It is for informational purposes only and may not be considered as legal advice. For specific legal advice and recommendations about your particular situation, contact an attorney to schedule a consultation.