All properties where the utility allowances are paid by the resident must compute an analysis of utility consumption annually and recommend an adjustment per the utility allowance request form. Requests are due 120 days prior to the effective date. If the contract has been renewed through MAHRA. The owner must submit the utility information the same time that they submit their contract renewal worksheets. The new utility allowance amounts will become effective the same date as the contract. If that day falls after the first of the month, it would become effective the first day of the next month.
Determining the Utility Allowance:
As part of the submission for an increase or decrease of 10 percent or greater in the utility allowance, a summary supporting the proposed change to the utility allowance should:
Identify the type of utilities covered (e.g. gas for heating)
State how any energy conservation initiatives have or will impact consumption.
State whether any utility rate increases or decrease during the past 12 months or next 12 months have been or will be implemented. (note – we cannot use information that is less than a 12-month period.)
Use the percentage listed below for each bedroom size:
10 units or less 40-50 percent - all other at least 25 percent of total units. (Please note the unit size on all data submitted.)
All data must be for 12 consecutive months. Please use the most current utility information and the actual amount billed to the tenant.
A printout from the utility companies showing the 12-month period tenant was billed.