Water bill - Who's responsible in rent situation? [California]?

I don't live in California, but I rent a house and I'm responsible for ALL the utilities. I'm paying the landlord for the house. Nothing else. I even have to mow my own grass. Apartment living usually has partial utilities paid or it would say so when you rented. All utilities paid is usually understood right up front when you sign.

No, it is not ok for them to make you accept responsibility. In your lease it should state what utilities you are responsible for. If it is not in the lease take the water bill out of your name. It will go automatically back into the owner's name. Then if there is an issue it doesn't matter because you are not responsible for it. They can bill you back ONLY if it is writing meaning the lease that you are responsible for the water. Plus you can always say,"Hey I don't see it in the lease that I have to pay for the water can you elaborate on why you want me to be responsible for it?" Just ask it is simple enough plus it should have been made clear to you before you signed your lease. Never sign anything you are not clear on. A lease has to state what utilities are your responsibility. The owner doesn't have to have the water in their name if a lease says otherwise.