Identify who bills you
Check your lease for services paid through the landlord or building manager and contracts you are expected to arrange yourself. Ask for the billing cycle and the due date for each. Keep the first invoice for each service as a reference.
Read the period before the amount
A bill delivered in February might cover January. Write the service dates beside the amount. If a bill crosses your move-in date, compare it with your handover record and ask how the share before your tenancy is handled.
Compare readings and units
Record the current and previous reading for the same meter, with the unit shown on the meter or invoice. Ask whether a figure is measured or estimated and how to submit a correction. Photograph the meter only where you have permission and send it to the confirmed contact.
Separate predictable costs from winter costs
Put recurring charges in one group and season-dependent charges in another. For a new flat, build a high month from a previous bill if the owner can share one. Revisit the estimate once you have a full billing cycle of your own.
