Utilities and Services Guide for New BC Tenants

Starting a new tenancy in British Columbia can be both exciting and daunting—especially when you need to understand who is responsible for utilities and other essential services. Whether you’re renting your first apartment or moving to a different city in BC, knowing your rights and obligations for utilities is crucial. This article explains common services in BC rentals, how utility costs are handled, and what you can expect according to the latest Residential Tenancy Act.¹

What Utilities Are Usually Involved in BC Rentals?

"Utilities" refer to basic services needed to live comfortably and safely in a rental home. In British Columbia, these commonly include:

• Electricity (BC Hydro)
• Heat—may use electricity, natural gas (FortisBC), or oil
• Water and sewer
• Garbage, recycling, and compost collection
• Internet, cable, and phone (optional or extra)

Which utilities are included in your rent varies by property. Check your rental agreement for details. Landlords must specify which services are included and which are your responsibility.¹

Who Pays for Utilities: Landlord or Tenant?

The responsibility for utilities in BC depends on your tenancy agreement. Common arrangements include:

• All-inclusive rentals: The landlord pays for most or all utilities. Your rent covers these costs.
• Partially inclusive: Some utilities (often heat and water) are included, while others (such as electricity or internet) are in your name as the tenant.
• Utilities not included: You are responsible for setting up and paying all utilities separately.

If you’re unsure, review your contract or speak to your landlord before signing. You can find more information on Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

Utilities and Security Deposits

Some landlords may require an extra deposit for utilities if the rental agreement states you (the tenant) are responsible for them. This is separate from your standard security or damage deposit. For rules on deposits, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Setting Up Utilities in British Columbia

When moving into a new place, you may need to set up utility accounts in your own name. Here’s how:

• Electricity: Contact BC Hydro Move-In Service.
• Natural Gas (if required): Use FortisBC Moving Services to start your account.
• Internet/Phone: Arrange separately with your provider of choice.

Landlords may assist with water and garbage setup, as these are often managed by the municipality and covered in rent. Always confirm in writing what is included.

When Problems Arise: Loss of Utilities or Service Interruptions

If your landlord controls a utility (like heat or water) and service is disconnected or interrupted (not due to your non-payment), contact your landlord promptly. If it’s not resolved, you can apply for dispute resolution through the Residential Tenancy Branch.

Common Utility Issues and How to Address Them

These are some typical problems BC tenants might face:

• No heat or hot water in winter
• Unexplained high utility bills
• Landlord not maintaining essential services included in rent

For most utility issues, your first step is to contact your landlord in writing. If the problem is not fixed promptly, you have the right to file a dispute. For more on resolving issues, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Relevant Official Forms for BC Tenants

The following Residential Tenancy Branch forms may help if utilities or services are at issue:

• Request for Dispute Resolution (RTB-12): Use this if you need the Residential Tenancy Branch to help resolve a dispute about utilities, such as if the landlord won’t restore a service included in your agreement. Access the RTB-12 form. Complete the form, gather supporting documentation (such as emails and bills), and submit it online or at a Service BC location. For example, if your heat is shut off in mid-winter and your landlord does not take action, you can use this process.
• Condition Inspection Report (RTB-27): Used during move-in and move-out; you can note the working condition of appliances and utility services. Official RTB-27 form.

Your Rights and Obligations Under BC Law

The Residential Tenancy Act outlines both landlord and tenant responsibilities for utilities and services. Tenants must pay charges required by the lease. Landlords must provide any essential services (like heat, hot/cold water, electricity) where agreed, and ensure they remain functional. You can read more in the text of the Residential Tenancy Act.¹

For more on rights and responsibilities after signing a lease, read What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

To research general tenant protections, visit Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

Additional Living Costs to Consider

• Optional services like internet or cable are almost always paid by the tenant.
• Some apartments may have "metered" utilities, where you pay only for what you use.
• Older buildings may have shared meters—ask about this as it affects how costs are split.

Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for accurate utility info and transparent listings.

1. Are landlords in BC required to provide all utilities?
   Landlords must provide any utilities listed as "included" in your tenancy agreement. Heat and hot water must be maintained if your rent includes them. Optional services like internet are usually not required unless specified in your contract.
2. Can my landlord turn off a utility (e.g., water, heat) in my BC rental?
   No. A landlord cannot reduce or shut off essential services required under your rental agreement, such as heat or water, even if you’re behind in rent. Doing so may be an illegal “constructive eviction.”
3. What happens if I miss a utility payment in my name?
   If a utility account is in your name and you do not pay, service may be disconnected. This does not affect your tenancy status unless your rental agreement requires continuous service (such as heating).
4. Is there a limit to utility charges?
   If your agreement says utilities are included, your landlord cannot charge extra if your use increases. All fees must be transparent in the agreement.
5. How do I resolve a utility dispute in BC?
   First, try to resolve it in writing with your landlord. If unsuccessful, apply for dispute resolution through the Residential Tenancy Branch with supporting evidence.

1. How do I set up my own electricity account with BC Hydro?
   Go to the BC Hydro moving service page, fill out the move-in form with your new rental details, and select your start date. You’ll need ID and, sometimes, your tenancy agreement for proof.
2. How do I dispute missing or malfunctioning utility services?
   Document the issue (emails, bills, photos if needed). Inform your landlord in writing. If the issue isn’t fixed, complete the RTB-12 form and submit it to the Residential Tenancy Branch with all documentation.
3. How do I know which utilities are legally required in my BC rental?
   Review your written tenancy agreement—it must specify included services. Essentials like heat and water are almost always covered if the building is equipped and you do not control the meter directly.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Branch of British Columbia: Official government site for tenant forms, information, dispute resolution, and contact numbers.
• Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC): Advocacy, guides, and a helpline for BC renters.
• Find more about your rights at Tenant Rights in British Columbia.

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1. Residential Tenancy Act – full text (Government of British Columbia)

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