Q: Why did you charge for water and sewer?
Answer
In March 2017, the City of Chicago increased taxes on water and sewer usage. As an alternative to increasing rents, we decided to bill water & sewer separately, hoping it would encourage lower consumption and costs for all.
Q: Why are you getting rid of water billing?
Answer
We've heard your feedback and agree...water and sewer billing can be confusing. Moving forward, all water costs will be built into your monthly rent.
Q: How much will my rent increase?
Answer
Rent increases will be set at a rate less than the sum of your current rent and recent average water bills, so rent will not be more than your current rent and water bills. Your Property Manager will reach out with details.
Q: Why are you increasing my rent?
Answer
Water costs are increasing for everyone in Chicago, there’s no way around it. The rent increase you may receive will help cover some of the increased cost. In truth, we won’t recover as much this way but we believe the simplicity is better for residents and for Pangea.
Q: Why aren't you increasing my rent by the full water and sewage usage amount?
Answer
We value our relationship with you more than we value recovering all water costs. We hope you choose to continue to rent with Pangea.
Q: When does this take effect?
Answer
For residents on an active lease we are offering an opportunity to sign a new lease that doesn’t include a water addendum. This new lease will be effective for the rest of your original lease agreement. When that lease takes effect, you will no longer be responsible for water and sewer and will not receive any more bills.
For Month to Month residents, your Property Manager will reach out with a letter outlining all the details, including effective date.
Q: Is my lease being extended?
Answer
No, your lease will end on the same date it would have. The only difference will be a change in the rent and no more water/sewer bills.
Q: How will I be charged now?
Answer
After signing a new lease or when your current lease expires, you will no longer get a water bill monthly. Water will be included as a part of your normal monthly rent.
Q: What happens if I don't sign a new lease?
Answer
You will continue to receive monthly water bills as you do now.
Q: Why don't other landlords bill for water?
Answer
Other landlords in the area are likely including water costs in monthly rent. Everyone will be impacted by rising taxes.
