Arkansas Submetering Laws

Arkansas allows landlords and property managers to install submetering systems and bill residents for individualized utility usage.

Residential water, electric and gas submetering, as well as RUBS billing, are all legal in Arkansas. Sewer and trash billing can also be done individually. Lease agreements should be explicit about payments and obligations.

There are several things to keep in mind, however:

• According to the Arkansas Department of Health, the state does not necessarily treat properties that submeter water as subject to regulatory requirements for public water systems, but can at its discretion.
• Rates for electric, water and gas are regulated by the state.

Starting Submetering in Arkansas

It’s easy to implement submetering at multifamily buildings and other property types in Arkansas. 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 Arkansas. RUBS billing, which divides utility costs according to an industry-accepted formula, is also possible.

Steps to Implement Submetering in Arkansas

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 Arkansas can be implemented in as little as a few weeks, at no net cost to the property owner or manager.