Top 50 Questions About Utilities & Services for BC Tenants

Q: What official form do I use to request dispute resolution?

Use the 'Application for Dispute Resolution' (RTB–12), available on the Residential Tenancy Branch website.

Q: If utilities are included in rent, can the landlord add extra charges later?

No. If utilities are included, the landlord cannot add extra charges unless you both agree.

Utilities & Services British Columbia published June 26, 2025

Who is responsible for paying utility bills in BC rentals?

It depends on your lease. If your agreement says you pay, you are responsible. If not, the landlord pays.

Can a landlord stop supplying heat, water, or electricity?

No. Landlords must provide essential services unless you agreed otherwise in writing.

What do I do if my landlord shuts off an essential service?

Contact the landlord first. If unresolved, apply to the Residential Tenancy Branch for dispute resolution.

Is internet considered an essential service in BC?

No, only heat, water, and electricity are considered essential by law.

If utilities are included in rent, can the landlord add extra charges later?

No. If utilities are included in the lease, the landlord cannot add extra charges unless you both agree.

What if utilities are not working due to repairs?

Landlords must minimize disruption and restore services quickly. Notify the landlord immediately.

Can I deduct utility costs from my rent if the landlord fails to provide them?

No, unless you get an order from the Residential Tenancy Branch first.

What temperature must the landlord maintain in winter?

The rental must be warm and safe. Specifics can depend on local bylaws, but heat is required if included in the lease.

Does my landlord have to pay for garbage collection?

Yes, if the tenancy agreement does not say tenants are responsible for this service.

Can the landlord switch utility providers during my tenancy?

Only if it does not reduce your services or add costs unless you agree in writing.

What if I receive a utility bill the landlord was supposed to pay?

Notify your landlord immediately. Keep copies and raise it with the Residential Tenancy Branch if not resolved.

Can a landlord charge tenants for water in BC?

Only if your lease clearly states you are responsible for water charges.

Can my landlord limit my heat or electricity usage?

No. Landlords cannot limit essential services if they are responsible for them in the lease.

What happens if I move in and utilities are not turned on?

Contact your landlord immediately. If unresolved, seek help from the Residential Tenancy Branch.

If meters are shared between suites, how are costs divided?

Costs cannot be arbitrarily divided unless specified fairly in your agreement or by mutual consent.

Are landlords allowed to cut off utilities to force eviction?

No, this is illegal. Tenants can apply for an order and may be entitled to compensation.

If I pay the utilities and the landlord’s name is on the bill, what should I do?

Keep all receipts and agreements. Request your name on the account if possible.

Am I responsible for late fees if my landlord pays utilities late?

No. Tenants only pay fees if responsible for utilities under their agreement.

What if I can’t afford high utility bills?

Discuss payment options with your landlord. Ask for proof of charges if utilities are included.

Can the landlord enter to check or repair utilities?

Yes, but they must give proper notice, usually 24 hours in writing.

Is it legal for the landlord to install a sub-meter and charge tenants?

Only with your agreement or if specified in the lease. Charges must reflect actual use.

What can I do if shared laundry isn’t working?

Report it to your landlord. Repairs must be completed in reasonable time if the amenity is included in your lease.

Does a landlord have to supply hot water?

Yes, unless your tenancy agreement says you are responsible for hot water.

What is the minimum amount of electricity or water the landlord must supply?

Enough to make the rental livable. Specific minimums may be set by local bylaws.

Can my landlord restrict my use of utilities to save money?

No, unless specified in your lease and not for essential services.

My utilities were shut off for non-payment; who is responsible?

Whomever the lease assigns responsibility to. Check the agreement carefully.

Is air conditioning considered an essential service in BC?

No, but if your lease includes it, the landlord must maintain it.

Can I choose my own internet or cable provider?

Yes, unless your tenancy agreement restricts this.

Does my landlord have to provide garbage bins?

Yes, unless you agreed otherwise. Proper waste disposal must be available.

If utilities are included, can landlord use them to justify a rent increase?

No. Rent increases must follow the rules set by law.

Who do I contact if the landlord refuses repairs affecting utilities?

Contact the Residential Tenancy Branch: Residential Tenancy Branch.

How do I make a formal complaint about lack of utilities?

Apply for dispute resolution with the Residential Tenancy Branch using the Dispute Resolution Application.

What official form do I use to request dispute resolution?

Use the "Application for Dispute Resolution" (RTB–12). Available here.

How do I give notice to end tenancy because utilities aren’t provided?

Use the "Tenant's Notice to End Tenancy" form RTB–33. Submit to landlord as required by law.

Can a landlord add meters or change services without my consent?

Changes usually need your written consent unless clearly allowed in your lease.

If a utility bill is unpaid, can the utility provider disconnect services?

Yes, if the responsible party does not pay. Discuss with your landlord and utility provider promptly.

Can rent be reduced if agreed utilities are not provided?

Only if ordered by the Residential Tenancy Branch.

Is it legal for landlords to collect a deposit for utility accounts?

Only if agreed in your lease or required by the provider, but it cannot exceed lawful limits.

My utility bill is very high, can I ask for proof?

Yes, you can request a copy of the bill if your rent includes utilities.

Can a landlord disconnect the internet without notice?

Internet is not essential by law, but if your agreement includes it, the landlord must provide it as agreed.

Can the landlord charge late payment fees for utilities?

Only if allowed in your tenancy agreement and if you are responsible for utilities.

Is the landlord responsible for maintaining utility connections?

Yes, if the lease says landlord supplies the service, maintenance is their responsibility.

What is the legislation that governs tenant rights for utilities in BC?

The Residential Tenancy Act of British Columbia regulates utility-related tenant rights.

Where can I find information from the official BC tenancy tribunal?

Visit the Residential Tenancy Branch website for full resources.

Can I break my lease if utilities are cut off?

You may be able to end tenancy if the landlord fails to provide essential services. Use the appropriate notice form.

What if I disagree with a landlord about who pays for utilities?

Review your lease and seek help from the Residential Tenancy Branch for clarification or dispute resolution.

What notice must the landlord give to interrupt utilities for repairs?

Reasonable written notice is required except in emergencies.

How do I respond to a loss of utilities outside business hours?

Report the issue to your landlord as soon as possible and keep records of your communication.

How do I prove an agreement that landlord pays utilities?

Keep your written tenancy agreement and any related communications as evidence.

Are there government resources for help with utility bills?

Check the BC government and utility providers for support programs if you are struggling.

Top 50 Questions About Utilities & Services for BC Tenants

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Bob Jones

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