So detached units could very much require a separate meter?

In their lease they are responsible for water, however there is only 1 meter for all 4 units, so I just charge them $100 flat fee.

I am in contract on a four-plex and there is only one meter for electrical, gas and water.

In my area usually each unit has its own gas and water meters. 

This building has a 6k electric bill, and just one meter???  

I am unsure if they have individual meters for utilities.

Everything is permitted so we have 2 water meters, 2 sewer taps and 2 electric meters.

A few quick, practical things that actually matter on multi‑units:For your budget and area (400K, northwest side + Melrose Park), focus on 2–3 units with:Strong bones (roof, foundation, mechanicals)Room for rent growth (below‑market rents, dated cosmetics)Clear separation between units (separate entrances, utilities, meters)An owner‑occupy option so you can live in‑unit and keep borrowing costs lowWhat to watch out for:Parking issues or “we’ll just put a car on the street” arrangementsShared HVAC, shared utilities, or “their own meter but… it’s all run to the same spot” nonsenseOverpriced buildings that only work if you aggressively rent up and rehab cheap—force that math to hold conservativelyFor specific “properties worth looking at,” I’d branch your search into:Chicago northwest side: 2–3 units with long‑time tenants under‑rentedMelrose Park / Cicero / Forest Park: 2–4 units within blocks of transit where you can raise rents a bit but still cash flow at 400KIf you want, I can send you a super‑short checklist for when you walk each 2–3 unit (what to inspect, what to ask the agent, what to run through in your head before you decide to offer).

Property details: • Duplex• Each unit ~1070 sqft• 2 bed / 2.5 bath per side• Built 2024• Separate meters• Total ~2140 sqft• Tenant ready (vacant currently) Projected rents seller mentioned: ~$1,850 per sideConservative rent comps I’m seeing closer to $1,600–$1,700 per side. 

Stabilized asset with 100% occupancy, 8.97% going‑in cap rate, separately metered utilities, and major CapEx completed by prior ownership.