In Seattle, tenants can have their own accounts for electricity, but the building landlord must manage the accounts for water, sewer, garbage, recycling, and food & yard (compost) disposal. Prior to 2011, tenants could have these Seattle Public Utilities accounts in their own name, and those current accounts in tenant names will remain active until closing is requested.

Who pays the utility bill? Anyone may pay an SPU bill, regardless the name appearing on the account. Payments are accepted from the owner, property management company, tenant, or another third party. Contact us with your questions about accounts or billing.