Mobile home utilities and submetering in Kansas

Kansas regulates how mobile home parks disclose and bill utilities. The Mobile Home Parks Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (K.S.A. 58-25,100 et seq.) requires a written utility-rate explanation up front, puts the duty to supply hookups on the landlord, and caps landlord charges at actual cost. For a specific bill or dispute, consider consulting a licensed attorney in Kansas.

What the statute says

On utility hookups, K.S.A. 58-25,111(a)(6) requires the landlord to:

Furnish outlets for electric, water and sewer services and provide to such outlets an adequate, safe and sanitary supply of such services.

On disclosure, §58-25,109(e) requires "a written explanation of utility rates, charges and services to the prospective tenant before the rental agreement is signed unless the utility charges are paid by the tenant directly to the utility company." And §58-25,111(b) provides that where the landlord imposes conditions that result in charges for goods or services, "the charges shall not exceed the actual cost incurred in providing the tenant with such goods or services."

How it works in general

Before signing, a prospective tenant is entitled to a written explanation of utility rates and services unless they pay the utility directly. The landlord must furnish electric, water, and sewer outlets and an adequate, safe, sanitary supply. A park cannot restrict a resident's choice of fuel or services seller except where reasonably necessary for health, safety, or welfare, and any landlord-imposed charge for such goods or services cannot exceed the landlord's actual cost.

Common scenarios

General examples Kansas park residents commonly encounter:

• A utility charge appears that was never explained. Section 58-25,109(e) requires a written explanation before signing.
• A pass-through looks marked up. Section 58-25,111(b) caps landlord charges at the actual cost incurred.
• A park insists on one fuel supplier. Section 58-25,111(b) bars that unless reasonably necessary for health, safety, or welfare.

Other authorities that may apply

The Kansas Corporation Commission regulates public utilities and their rates. The written rental agreement and utility disclosure under §58-25,109 set the billing terms, and federal law can apply in particular situations. Section 58-25,111 also requires the landlord to keep supplied facilities in good working order.