New York Submetering Laws

In some cases, New York allows landlords and property managers to install submetering systems and bill residents for individualized utility usage.

New York’s submetering and RUBS regulations are more complicated than many states. The following are permitted for residences:

• Electric submetering (with approval from the New York Public Service Commission)
• Water submetering
• Water RUBS billing

There are questions around the following for residences:

• Electric RUBS billing
• Natural gas submetering
• Natural gas RUBS billing

Additionally, Local Law 88 (later expanded in Local Law 132) requires submetering in some instances in New York City. It is not a statewide regulation.

Starting Submetering in New York

It’s easy to implement submetering at multifamily buildings and other property types in New York State. It’s typically best to contact a utility billing and consulting firm like Synergy to ensure 100% compliance and effectiveness.

Submeters, with individual meters for each unit, can be used in existing buildings or new construction in New York. RUBS billing, which divides utility costs according to an industry-accepted formula, is also possible.

Steps to Implement Submetering

Implementing submetering and outsourcing multifamily utility billing is a surprisingly quick process.

• First contact a utility billing specialist like Synergy. You can also request a quick quote on our website.
• We’ll hold an introductory call. If it’s a fit, we’ll then review the site in person (if necessary).
• Our consultants will determine the best mix of service offerings and technology for you, and deliver a formal proposal.
• We then work with industry-leading installers to install submeters and ensure everything is working correctly.
• We handle all aspects of meter reading, resident billing and collections on your behalf.

Utility submetering and outsourced utility billing in New York can be implemented in as little as a few weeks, at no net cost to the property owner or manager.