When 'Utilities' is listed on ads on BoligPortal in the box with the monthly rent, it refers to the amount that the landlord has chosen for you as a tenant to pay each month for your consumption.
This typically includes your consumption of water and heating. Electricity is usually not included in the aconto amount, but it will always be specified in your rental contract.
Some landlords refer to utilities as aconto or A/C consumption.
The utilities amount covers some of your utility expenses while living in your rental property. Typically, it covers water and heating costs. In some cases, the landlord may also choose to include other items such as internet or TV as part of the "aconto" amount.
You can always see what you're paying for as utilities in your rental contract.
The utilities amount is calculated by your landlord based on an expected average consumption, which is determined from previous years' consumption or estimates for the rental unit – for example, based on the previous tenant's actual usage.
This means you pay a fixed amount each month, regardless of the actual consumption. The amount is typically adjusted annually to match your actual usage.
There can be many reasons why your consumption changes. For example, if your partner moves in or if your child moves out, your total utility consumption may easily increase or decrease.
Your utilities payment will not change from month to month if your consumption changes. Utilities is an estimated prepayment based on previous years' consumption, not a monthly settlement.
If your consumption changes during the year, the adjustment to your changed consumption will occur at the annual settlement, which your landlord conducts.
If your consumption has decreased – meaning you have paid more than you actually used – your landlord will refund the difference to you.
If your consumption has increased – meaning you have paid less than you actually used – your landlord will charge you an amount to cover the difference.
If your consumption matches the amount you have paid, nothing will happen.
Yes, your landlord has the right to adjust the amount during the annual consumption settlement. If the landlord finds that the amount is set too high or too low, they can change the monthly advance payment you make. However, the adjustment must be notified 6 weeks in advance.