What happens if my landlord stops paying for a shared utility?

You should contact your landlord and request restoration of service. If unresolved, file a complaint with the Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch.

Am I responsible for the whole utility bill if my roommate moves out?

Typically, you're only responsible for your share if specified in the lease. Clarify your responsibilities with your landlord.

Is it legal for my landlord to disconnect utilities if I’m late on rent?

No. Manitoba law prohibits landlords from disconnecting utilities as a penalty for late rent.

Who Pays for Shared Utilities in Manitoba Rentals?

Utilities & Services Manitoba published: June 20, 2025

For tenants in Manitoba, figuring out who pays for shared utilities—like heat, water, and electricity—can be a source of confusion. Whether you’re renting a house with roommates or a unit in a building with shared services, it’s vital to know your rights, what should be written in the lease, and how Manitoba’s laws protect you. This article explains how shared utilities work under Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Branch, so you’ll know what to expect and how to avoid conflicts.

Understanding Utilities in Manitoba Rentals

Utilities are basic services like electricity, heat, water, and sometimes internet or cable. In Manitoba, landlords and tenants share responsibilities for these costs based on what is outlined in the lease. The Residential Tenancies Act (Manitoba)¹ sets out requirements for clarity and fairness when it comes to utility payments.

Types of Utilities and Cost-Sharing Arrangements

Individually Metered Units: Each unit has its own meter. The tenant pays only for their own usage.
Shared Metered or Unmetered Utilities: Multiple rental units share one meter or the landlord pays the bill and divides the cost among tenants.
All-Inclusive Rentals: The rent includes utility costs, and tenants do not pay bills separately.

If the lease is silent, Manitoba law typically makes the landlord responsible for essential utilities. Always check what’s in your written lease before you sign.

Who Is Responsible for Shared Utility Bills?

The responsibility for paying shared utilities depends on the agreement in your lease:

If your lease says you pay a share: The agreement must specify your portion—like splitting equally between tenants, or by room size. The lease must be clear about how costs are calculated.
If not clear: The landlord is generally responsible for all essential services, such as heat, water, and power.

For shared accommodations, the landlord can only require you to pay utilities if it’s clearly stated in writing and you have some control over your use of those utilities.

What Does Manitoba Law Say?

Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Act¹ gives tenants important rights when it comes to utility services:

Landlords must maintain essential utilities unless the agreement transfers that responsibility to the tenant and the tenant can directly control usage.
Landlords cannot disconnect or shut off utilities as a form of eviction or penalty.
Utility charges must be reasonable and based on actual costs, unless a fixed monthly amount is agreed upon in advance.

If you have questions about what your landlord can require, review your lease and ask the landlord to provide cost breakdowns in writing. Never agree to pay shared utilities unless the calculation method is clear.

Official Forms and Application Process

If you feel you are being unfairly charged, or if the landlord fails to provide essential services, you can file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Branch:

Form: Tenant Application for Order of Remedy (RTB Form)
When to Use: If utilities are being withheld or the landlord is not following the terms of the lease.
Example: If your landlord tries to charge unexpected utility fees or disconnects your heat, you can submit this form to request an order for proper service or compensation.

Best Practices for Tenants: Protect Your Rights

Always request a written breakdown of how shared utilities will be split.
Review your lease with the landlord before signing. If possible, have all utilities clearly listed along with who pays and how costs are shared.
Keep records of all payments for utilities, especially if paying other tenants or the landlord directly.
If you move in with existing tenants, clarify with everyone how bills will be managed.

If a dispute arises, you have the right to seek help. See Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them for more advice on addressing rental disputes.

For more facts on your tenant rights and landlord obligations in Manitoba, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Manitoba.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if my landlord stops paying for a shared utility?
If your landlord was responsible for the utility, contact them right away and ask them to restore service. If they refuse or delay, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Branch for help.
Am I responsible for the whole bill if my roommate moves out?
Usually, you are only responsible for your agreed share, if the lease specifies the split. If not, the landlord may try to collect the balance, so ask for clarification and keep all receipts.
Can my landlord charge me extra if my usage is higher?
Only if the lease says charges are based on actual usage. Otherwise, extra charges are not allowed unless agreed to in writing.
Is it legal for a landlord to disconnect utilities if I’m late on rent?
No—this is prohibited under Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Act. Utilities cannot be used as leverage for payment or eviction.
How do I file a complaint if I’m being overcharged for shared utilities?
You can submit the relevant complaint form to the Residential Tenancies Branch online or in person. Provide documentation of payments and communications.

Conclusion: Key Points for Manitoba Renters

Always check your lease for details on shared utilities.
Your landlord can’t make you pay for shared services unless it’s clearly agreed in writing and you control their use.
If in doubt, seek advice from Manitoba’s Residential Tenancies Branch or tenant support groups.

Knowing your rights helps prevent surprises, reduces disputes, and ensures a more comfortable rental experience.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Manitoba Residential Tenancies Branch: Information, complaints, and mediation (1-800-782-8403).
Manitoba Family Services – Tenant Resources: Guidance for rental issues and tenant support.
Local community legal clinics: Many offer free advice on utility disputes and housing rights.