Pros and Cons of Renting an Apartment with Utilities Included

When you rent an apartment, you’re not just signing a lease and budgeting for rent, you also have to factor in utilities. Not only will this mean more bills, this also means deposits and the hassle of having your utilities turned on when you move in and turned off when you leave. On the other hand, is renting an apartment with utilities included the right option for you? We’re breaking down the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.

What Are Apartments with Utilities Included?

While most apartments require the tenant to pay utilities, some offer all utilities included with the rent whereas others may just include one or two. The rent itself may be higher than similar options, but you’ll pay one monthly fee to the landlord and apartment management company. It’s important to find out before signing a lease or rental agreement what is actually included and what you’re responsible for separately. Often, short-term rentals and corporate apartments will include everything – electric, water, heat, and even wi-fi whereas apartments designed for longer residency may just have water or heat.

Benefits of Apartments with Utilities Included

First, let’s consider the pros of renting an apartment where the utilities are built into the monthly rent.

Convenience

The main reason most people rent an apartment with utilities included is convenience. A utilities-included apartment means you’re only paying a single bill, and you don’t have to worry about calling companies to hook up water, electricity, or wi-fi or make phone calls to different companies when there’s an issue. You’re streamlining your living situation, which can reduce your stress and save you time. This is particularly true if you will only be in the apartment for a short period of time or are moving from a long distance.

Lower Moving Costs

Additionally, the move-in cost to an apartment with utilities included will be significantly less expensive. While you may have the apartment costs, such as a security deposit and the first month’s rent to pay, you won’t have to worry about deposits for the utilities.

Accurate Budgeting

While utility rates can change and vary from month to month, a utilities-included apartment, such as snowbird rentals, has a consistent rent. This makes it easier to budget and determine your living costs for each month with minimal surprises.

Downsides of Apartments That Include Utilities

On the other hand, it’s also important to consider when it may be right to consider an apartment where utilities and rent are separate.

Higher Rent Costs

Not only will the overall rent be higher because the rent bundles utilities, but some landlords do inflate the price or average costs across buildings. You may want to get estimates of monthly utilities to determine if you’re getting a fair deal on your rent with the utilities included.

Fewer Amenities

Some apartments with utilities included try to keep costs low, so there might not be washer and dryer connections, or the thermostats may be pre-set by the property management company. Find out from the apartment company or property management company if you have control over your heating and cooling.

Reserve a Corporate Apartment in NC Today

If you’re seeking a short-term apartment with utilities included while you stay in North Carolina, reach out to Corporate Accommodations. Our furnished apartments include private washers and dryers, electric, water, and even cable and wifi! To learn more, reach out to us today at 336-299-1312 or fill out the contact form below to get started.