Top 50 Tenant Questions About Utilities & Services in Alberta

Utilities & Services Alberta published June 26, 2025

Who pays for utilities in Alberta rentals?

It depends on your lease. Your rental agreement should state if you or your landlord pays for each utility.

What utilities must a landlord provide by law?

Landlords must provide essential utilities like heat, water, and electricity unless your lease says you pay for them.

Can my landlord shut off my utilities?

No, landlords cannot cut off essential utilities to a rental property, even if rent is not paid. It’s illegal under Alberta law.

What should I do if my utilities are suddenly disconnected?

Contact your landlord and the utility company, then the Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) if needed.

What if the landlord does not pay for utilities they are responsible for?

You can file a complaint with the RTDRS if a landlord fails to provide agreed utilities.

Which tenancy tribunal handles utility disputes in Alberta?

The Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) handles tenancy disputes, including utilities.

What if my rental agreement does not mention utilities?

Talk to your landlord and clarify who is responsible. If unclear, the landlord is generally responsible for providing utilities.

Can a landlord increase utility charges during my lease?

Not unless your lease allows it. Changes cannot be made mid-term without your agreement.

Can I deduct utility bills I paid from my rent if the landlord fails to pay?

Only if the landlord agrees in writing or with a court/RTDRS order. Otherwise, this is not recommended.

What temperature must the landlord maintain in winter?

There is no fixed standard, but heat must be “adequate” and comfortable in winter. Check your city’s bylaws for specifics.

If I’m sharing utilities with other tenants, who pays the bill?

If utilities are shared, the lease should explain how costs are split. If unclear, discuss and agree in writing.

Must the landlord provide internet or cable TV?

No, internet and cable are not required by law unless the lease states otherwise.

Can my landlord enter to repair utility systems without notice?

Only in emergencies. Otherwise, landlords must provide at least 24 hours written notice to enter.

What do I do if my landlord refuses to fix a broken utility (like a water heater)?

Report the problem in writing to the landlord. If not fixed, you may apply to the RTDRS for help.

Who is responsible for utility deposits?

It depends on the lease. If you are responsible for utilities, you pay the deposit.

Can my landlord charge an administration fee for utilities?

Only if specified in your rental agreement. It cannot be added without your consent.

What do I do if my utility bill is unusually high?

Check for leaks or service errors. Contact your landlord and the utility provider to investigate.

Can my landlord install a sub-meter for my unit?

Yes, but any change to utility billing must be agreed to in writing by both parties.

Is my landlord responsible for snow removal or lawn care?

Your lease should specify this. If not, in multi-unit buildings, landlords typically handle it; in single homes, it may be your duty.

What if my utility is shared and the landlord refuses to show me the bill?

You may request a copy. If refused, you can apply to RTDRS for disclosure if you suspect overcharging.

Do landlords have to provide hot water?

Yes, landlords must provide hot water if they are responsible for utilities.

Can my landlord make me sign up for utilities in my name?

Yes, if your lease says utilities are your responsibility, you must set up the accounts.

What happens to my utility accounts when I move out?

You are usually responsible for closing utility accounts and paying any final bills if they are in your name.

Can a landlord bill me for repairs to utilities?

Only if you caused the damage through neglect or misuse.

Do I pay utilities if I can’t live in my unit because of a major outage?

If the property is unlivable, you may not have to pay rent or utilities. Get advice from RTDRS.

Can my landlord shut off air conditioning?

Air conditioning is not required by law. If provided in your lease, the landlord must maintain it.

Can a landlord turn off the water for repairs?

Yes, but they should give reasonable notice and restore service as soon as possible.

Must a landlord provide garbage collection?

Yes, landlords must ensure garbage disposal is available as required by municipal bylaws.

How do I know what utilities I’m being charged for?

Your lease or rental agreement should list all utilities you are responsible for.

Can my landlord give me notice to end my lease because I’m late on utility bills?

Yes, if paying utilities is your responsibility and you don’t pay, it may be cause for eviction.

Who pays for pest control?

The landlord if it is not caused by tenant actions. If your actions caused infestation, you may be responsible.

Are property taxes considered a utility?

No, property taxes are always a landlord’s responsibility, not a tenant’s utility.

What is the Alberta law for utilities in rentals?

The Residential Tenancies Act states landlords must provide agreed utilities and keep premises habitable.

Does the RTDRS have a specific form for utility disputes?

Yes, use the ‘Application for Dispute Resolution’ (RTDRS Form) to file utility complaints.

When should I use the Application for Dispute Resolution form?

Use it if the landlord is not providing required utilities or you’re being wrongfully billed.

Where can I find the Application for Dispute Resolution form?

Access it on the RTDRS website.

How long do repairs to utilities have to take?

They must be done “within a reasonable time”; urgent repairs must be dealt with quickly to maintain habitability.

Can my landlord make me pay for utilities already included in rent?

No. If your lease says utilities are included, you do not pay extra unless you agree in writing.

What if my landlord is not providing the utility I pay for?

Inform your landlord in writing. If not resolved, apply to RTDRS for an order to restore the utility.

Do I need the landlord’s permission to switch utility providers?

If utilities are in your name, you can choose the provider. If in the landlord’s name, you need permission.

Does a ‘no utilities’ lease mean the landlord can refuse any service?

The unit must remain habitable (running hot and cold water, power, heating) under the law even if you pay the bills.

Can my landlord install video surveillance in common areas?

Only in common areas and only with notice. Video surveillance cannot invade tenants’ privacy in their homes.

What are “essential services” in Alberta rentals?

Heat, water, electricity, and, where necessary, natural gas are essential services.

If I want to install my own satellite or extra services, can I?

Only with the landlord’s written permission.

Whom do I contact if my landlord will not respond to utility complaints?

Contact the RTDRS or Alberta Health Services in emergencies.

Can my landlord turn off the elevator as a utility?

No. Elevators are common services and must be maintained in working order.

Can my landlord charge for emergency utility repairs?

Only if the repair is needed because of tenant damage.

What if I smell gas or have a dangerous outage?

Call emergency services first, then contact your landlord immediately.

Can tenants band together if the building loses heat or water?

Yes, tenants may contact RTDRS or Alberta Health Services as a group if a whole building is affected.

Can I ask for a rent reduction if there’s a long utility outage?

Yes, you can negotiate and, if needed, apply to RTDRS for partial rent abatement.

Top 50 Tenant Questions About Utilities & Services in Alberta

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Bob Jones

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