Moving into a new rental often means getting utilities working on day one. As a tenant in Manitoba, you should know your rights and practical steps to arrange electricity, heat, water, and internet so the unit is safe and usable immediately. This guide explains who is usually responsible, how to transfer or start accounts, which official forms and timelines to expect, and what to do if services are missing or not working. It also covers documenting conditions at move-in, communicating with your landlord, and where to find provincial dispute and support resources. Clear steps help renters avoid unexpected charges, delays, and disputes during the crucial first hours and days after moving in.
Before you move into the unit
Do a quick check and document the unit so you are not left paying for pre-existing problems or missing services.
- Inspect heating, plumbing and hot water; test taps, radiators and the thermostat and report anything not working to the landlord in writing. Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants
- Take photos and time-stamped notes of the unit condition and any faults so you have evidence if disputes arise.
- Collect written receipts for any deposits or move-in fees and confirm who pays for which utilities before you move in.
- Ask the landlord which utilities are included in the rent and get that confirmation in writing to avoid later confusion.
Setting up utilities on move-in day
Most utility companies require you to contact them to transfer or open an account. Start early and keep records of names, account numbers and confirmation emails or reference numbers.
- Call or use the provider's online portal to transfer or start accounts for electricity, gas, water (if metered) and internet; note any deposit or ID requirements.
- File any required applications or account-transfer forms promptly and ask for written confirmation of activation dates.
- Be ready to pay deposits or connection fees; ask the provider if a tenant transfer can avoid paying duplicate deposits when possible.
- Check cut-off and account-transfer timelines so services aren't accidentally shut off or duplicated during the move.
If a required service is missing or unsafe (no heat, no hot water, dangerous wiring), inform your landlord immediately and document the problem in writing. Manitoba's Residential Tenancies Branch handles disputes and information about landlord and tenant responsibilities.[1] The province's Residential Tenancies Act sets legal standards for habitability and remedies when services are not provided.[2]
What to do if utilities aren’t fixed
If the landlord doesn't restore included services or a private utility company refuses to connect service after you followed their process, you can pursue formal dispute routes.
- Gather evidence: dated photos, emails, text messages, receipts and the move-in inspection record.
- Send a written request to the landlord describing the issue, the remedy you want and a reasonable deadline to fix it.
- If unresolved, consider applying for dispute resolution with the Residential Tenancies Branch using their application process and forms.[3]
Costs, deposits and bill responsibility
Who pays depends on your lease: some landlords include utilities, others charge tenants directly. Never assume an oral promise about utilities — get it in writing.
- Review your lease to see which utilities the landlord must provide and which you must set up and pay for.
- Keep receipts for any payments you make toward utilities that you believe the landlord should have paid; this can help if you apply for compensation.
FAQ
- Who is usually responsible for setting up utilities on move-in day?
- Responsibility depends on the lease: some landlords include utilities while others require tenants to open accounts. Always check your lease and get written confirmation of any landlord promises.
- What should I do if a utility is not working on move-in day?
- Document the problem with photos and written notes, inform the landlord immediately in writing, contact the provider, save all receipts, and if unresolved, consider applying to the Residential Tenancies Branch for dispute resolution.
- Can a landlord require me to open utility accounts in my name?
- Yes, a landlord can require tenants to open accounts, but this should be in the lease. If this creates undue hardship or risk, discuss alternatives with the landlord and document any agreement in writing.
How-To
- Before moving, list the utilities you need and identify local providers.
- On arrival, take time-stamped photos of meters, the breaker panel and the unit condition.
- Call or use online portals to set up or transfer accounts; record the agent name and confirmation number.
- File any provider forms or applications and request written start/transfer dates to avoid double billing.
- Pay required deposits or arrange payment plans and keep receipts for each transaction.
- If the landlord or provider won’t resolve a missing or unsafe service, apply for dispute resolution with the Residential Tenancies Branch.
Key Takeaways
- Document the unit's condition immediately with photos and notes.
- Confirm in writing which utilities the landlord pays and which you must set up.
- Start or transfer utility accounts before move-in to reduce delays and overlap.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Branch — official information, applications and contacts
- Residential Tenancies Act — Province of Manitoba legislation
- Residential Tenancies Branch forms and application instructions
