Can a landlord Make a Tenant Responsible for Monthly Water Bill?

By Concerned Friend

I have a friend who is renting an apartment in RI and is being charged $150.00 per month, in additon to rent, for a water bill.  This is a large mixed population development where some residents receive a rental subsidy from HUD.  My friend is not on rental assistance, but is on a fixed income/disability.  The landlord is threatening eviction if she does not pay the bill in full by next month.  She is willing to enter into a payment agreement to repay the outstanding balance, but the landlord stated there are no repayment agreements.  Knowing that the residents who received a government rent subsidy cannot be charged more than 30% of their income, we are wondering whether the remaining residents are footing the water bill for the residents receiving assistance?  Is charging for water usage legal in RI rentals?

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Holy Cow, we couldn't find any other related post. Sorry. :(