Utility Payments When Renting: Who Should Pay for Water, Gas, and Major Repairs

Utility Payments When Renting: Who Should Pay for Water, Gas, and Major Repairs

According to ХВИЛЯ: In Ukraine, the issue of utility payments when renting a home is a primary cause of conflict between landlords and tenants. Lawyers advise documenting agreements in writing to avoid misunderstandings. According to part 3 of article 815 of the Civil Code of Ukraine, the tenant is obliged to pay for utilities unless otherwise stipulated in the rental agreement. This means that the conditions may vary depending on the agreements between the parties.

Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities

The tenant pays for the utilities that are recorded by meters, which include electricity, water, and gas. This is a duty enshrined in the law, but landlords can define other payment terms that should be documented in the contract. It is important for both parties to be aware of their obligations and rights, as misunderstandings on this issue often lead to conflicts.

At the same time, the costs for major repairs of the building or replacement of the elevator are the responsibility of the property owner. This is an important aspect to consider when concluding a rental agreement, as disputes often arise regarding responsibility for such expenses. In 2026, the rental market in Ukraine will undergo significant changes that may affect the rules and practices of relations between tenants and owners.

Thus, the proper execution of the agreement and a clear understanding of one’s obligations will help avoid many problems related to utility payments when renting a home.

Given these legislative aspects, it is important for both tenants and property owners to pay attention to the details of the agreement to avoid potential conflicts. The expected changes in the rental market in 2026 may further complicate the situation, so timely adaptation to the new conditions will be critically important for both parties. Understanding rights and obligations is the key to stable and comfortable relationships between tenants and property owners.