New Tenant - High Water Bill

[Sam Leon]

Have a situation that I am trying to figure out the best resolution.

Bought a house with a large lot in July 2012. Spent two months cleaning, fixing, renovating inside and outside.

During the process I replaced all the sprinklers (some were broken some clogged I tested everything out), I also redid landscape and put in all new sod.

Then I rented it out. The renter moved in 2 days after I laid new sod.

Lease stated renter is responsible for paying all utilities. I told him during lease signing that I have the lawn sprinkler timer on and since it's new sod, it's going to take more watering initially, and he is paying for the irrigation since it's city water.

When I was doing the renovation my water bill was about $60. I hardly used any water. Pretty much that was just all the standard fees (which includes water, sewer, garbage etc...)

I had the sprinklers set to water once every day, 7 days a week, 15 minutes each zone and there are 4 zones during that first month.

Now the water bills come and it's $300.

He said that is excessive. I tend to agree with him.

I am not sure what part of that $300 is due to my irrigation since I don't know his "normal" consumption rate.

I have dialed back the timer to water now only 10 minutes on MWF.

There is also a possibility of a leak, but I doubt it.

Any recommendation on what's the best way to handle this?

[George P.]

Just to play devils advocate - why do you need waste water and money on stupid grass?