RUBS for Multifamily Real Estate
Last reviewed by NES Editorial · September 2026
RUBS can cut utility consumption in an apartment community by 15 to 30 percent, with almost no setup cost. Here is how it fits multifamily.
- 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
Can RUBS be used at my multifamily community?
In most cases, yes. RUBS divides a property's master utility bill among residents by a fair formula, and every major utility can be allocated where local law permits. Setup cost is minimal and results usually show in the first month, since residents conserve more when they are responsible for the cost. Some states, counties, and cities restrict RUBS, so partner with a company that tracks the rules. NES handles RUBS or submetering, whichever fits.
What utilities can be recovered with RUBS
Every major utility can be divided by RUBS if the local laws permit it. Water is the most common, and gas and electric allocation depends on state and local rules. NES outlines the options that fit your goals.
How much does RUBS cost to implement?
RUBS costs almost nothing to set up and can be done quickly when you partner with a large company like NES. Your property will see results in the first month, because residents conserve more when they are directly responsible for the cost.
More benefits for multifamily owners
- Common-area utilities can be billed to residents where local rules allow
- Stronger NOI, which supports a higher property valuation
- Vacant cost recovery, which bills utility use in empty units back to the property correctly instead of losing it, is available and adds to the savings
- A dedicated compliance team verifies state and county regulations
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.
RUBS for Multifamily Real Estate
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.