Money Moral Dilemma: Should I tell my lodger he's using too much water and energy or increase rent?

MSE_Kelvin

This week's MoneySaver who wants advice asks...

I let my spare room, with the rent including household bills as it makes life easier. However, my current lodger uses an insane amount of water - he takes 45-minute showers, and leaves the tap running when he's doing the dishes or shaving. I've left out a washing up bowl and plugs for him, but he hasn't taken the hint. As well as being wasteful, given the energy price rises (it's hot water he's using), it's becoming a financial issue too. Do I tell him to use less or should I put the rent up?

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housebuyer143

Not sure how it's a moral dilemma.. You should talk to your lodger about waste and explain they can continue as they are and pay more, or stop being so wasteful and pay the same 

PM22

Put the rent up and then he doesn't have to change his lifestyle 

GrumpyDil

Or if they are a lodger give notice as per your agreement and start again with a new lodger. 

london21

Can communicate with them and if no change in behaviour can increase rent.

If all fails, look to get another lodger.

elsien

Stop leaving bowls out and just tell them straight. Much clearer all round. 

Dip82

Having had lodgers for the last 2 years, being upfront is the best policy. If everything else is good then try that. If everything else isn't so good, give notice and find someone else.

[Deleted User]

It is not your role to educate an adult not to take 45 minute showers. Give notice.

Barneysmom

Hard call but I think you got a lodger to save money?
 If he doesn't save you money there's no point in accommodating him. 

Money_Man_Steve

Explain the effects and costs of the wasteful behaviour, and warn that the rent will have to increase to cover the extra costs if it continues. 

Dizzybird_22

Stop hinting and tell them directly. Show them the bills if that helps....explain if it doesn't improve you will have to increase the rent. 

Just wondering how a human being can spend 45 minutes in a shower. I've got a teen daughter who doesn't take that long!