Many renters in New Brunswick receive cable, internet or TV bills that raise questions about who is responsible for charges and how fees can be split or transferred. This guide explains tenants 27 rights when a landlord handles the account, when services are bundled with rent, and what to do if you notice unexpected fees or disputed charges. It covers what to look for in your lease, how to request proof or copies of billing, steps for disputing charges with a provider, and when to contact the provincial tribunal. Written for tenants with clear examples and step-by-step actions, it aims to help you resolve billing problems without escalating to a formal hearing.
Who is responsible for cable and TV charges?
Responsibility depends on the agreement in your lease and who holds the account. If the landlord keeps the account in their name and then charges you, the lease should explain whether that is included in rent or billed separately; check your rental agreement and any billing clauses and consult the provincial legislation for clarification.[2] You can always ask the landlord for copies of bills or proof of payment to see how amounts were calculated.
Common billing arrangements
- Landlord holds the account and includes charges in rent or as a separate payment.
- Service is billed directly to the tenant in their own name by the provider.
- Building has a master account split by payment amount among tenants (per-tenant payment).
- Providers add activation, equipment, installation, or late fees that may appear on the account.
When you can dispute charges
You can dispute charges when they are inaccurate, unauthorized, or not supported by an itemized bill. Start by asking the provider and the landlord for a written, itemized statement and a timeline of services; if that does not resolve the issue, you may apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for a decision on whether the charge is allowable under New Brunswick law.[1]
Official forms and how to use them
- Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal 2D use this form to ask for an order about disputed service charges when informal steps fail; for example, you asked your landlord for an itemized bill and received no reply.[1]
- Notice of Dispute or Complaint form 2D use to start a written complaint with the tribunal or landlord; keep a copy and proof of delivery for your records.[3]
- Residential Tenancies Act (summary) 2D read the Act to understand how the law treats billing practices and tenant protections.[2]
How-To
- Check your lease and any clauses about utilities, who is billed, and whether services are included in rent.
- Collect bills, contracts, account statements, emails, and photos of equipment or service visits.
- Contact the provider and your landlord in writing, request an itemized bill, and set a reasonable deadline for a reply.
- Send a formal written complaint or form to the landlord and the provider, keeping proof of delivery.
- If unresolved, apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for a decision; include copies of all evidence and a short chronology.
FAQ
- Can my landlord charge me for cable if the account is in their name?
- Sometimes, yes, if your lease says so. You can request written proof of charges and ask for an itemized bill; if there is a dispute you may apply to the tribunal.[1]
- What if the provider adds equipment or activation fees I did not authorize?
- Contact the provider immediately, ask for a charge explanation, and dispute unauthorized fees in writing; keep copies for a tribunal application if needed.[1]
- Can a landlord start charging me mid-lease?
- Only if your lease allows it or both parties agree. For changes that effectively change rent or included services, check the Residential Tenancies Act and seek tribunal guidance.[2]
Key Takeaways
- Document all billing communications, receipts, and account records in a single file.
- Try to resolve billing problems first by asking for an itemized bill and a written explanation.
- Keep tribunal timelines and forms in mind if informal steps do not solve the issue.
If you are looking for a new place, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to compare listings and learn about what utilities are included before you sign.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal 2D Service New Brunswick
- Residential Tenancies Act 2D Government of New Brunswick
- Service New Brunswick 2D forms and guides
