Does RUBS Billing Save Money?
Last reviewed by NES Editorial · September 2026
RUBS costs almost nothing to set up, needs no equipment, and can start recovering utility cost on the first billing cycle. Here is how the savings work.
- Typical utility savings
- 15-30%Typical utility savings
- Equipment to install
- $0Equipment to install
- When recovery starts
- 1st cycleWhen recovery starts
- States served
- 43+States served
Does RUBS billing save money?
Yes. RUBS (Ratio Utility Billing System) divides a property's master utility bill fairly among residents, so the owner stops absorbing utility cost. When residents are responsible for what they use, consumption typically drops 15 to 30 percent. RUBS needs no submeters and no upfront equipment, so the return can start on the first billing cycle. NES handles the billing and resident support in-house.
How RUBS saves money
- No upfront investment in submeters, which can be costly to buy and install
- Consumption typically drops 15 to 30 percent once residents pay for what they use
- Common-area usage can be divided among residents where local rules allow
- Owners get more consistent monthly cash flow
- NES handles all the billing, so managers stop spending time on utility bills
What types of real estate can use RUBS
Most types of real estate can use RUBS. NES specializes in properties with 80 or more multifamily units, including apartment communities, townhomes, condominiums, and mixed-use real estate. State laws and local regulations often dictate which property types can use RUBS, so the method is checked for each address.
When submeters cannot be installed
RUBS allocates cost by formula when meters cannot be installed. Where submetering is the better fit or is required, NES installs and bills that instead, so you are never stuck with the wrong method.
RUBS or submetering?
RUBS estimates each unit’s share with a formula. Submetering measures each unit’s actual use with a meter. RUBS is faster and lower cost to start and works where meters cannot be added, while submetering is more precise and is required in some places. NES does both and recommends the one that fits your property and the local rules.
Compare submetering and RUBSGeneral information only, not legal advice. RUBS rules vary by state, county, and city and change often, and some places do not allow RUBS at all. Confirm the current rules for your address with your local authority or a qualified attorney, or let the NES compliance team verify them for you.
Does RUBS Billing Save Money?
See what your property can recover.
Send us your master-meter bills and unit count. We’ll model RUBS or submetering on your actual property and reply within one business day with a clear, no-obligation estimate.