Final Utility Bills & Rent: Moving Out Rules in New Brunswick

Moving out of a rental home in New Brunswick involves more than just packing your belongings. Understanding your responsibilities for final utility bills, rent payments, and proper notice is crucial for a smooth transition. This guide will help New Brunswick tenants navigate utility and rent obligations when ending their tenancy, avoid common disputes, and protect their rights under the Residential Tenancies Act.^[1]

Who Handles Utilities in New Brunswick Rentals?

Your rental agreement should clearly state whether utilities like electricity, heat, and water are your responsibility or the landlord's. In most cases, tenants pay for utilities separately, but always check your lease for specifics.

• If you pay utilities: You must settle all outstanding bills and arrange cancellation or transfer with each provider.
• If utilities are included: You typically have no further responsibility beyond your final rent.

Outstanding utility debts can follow you after moving out or even be deducted from your rental deposit if allowed under your lease or by the security deposit return process (RTB Form F-1).^[2]

Final Rent and Notice Requirements

Tenants must provide proper written notice before moving, and pay rent in full up to the notice end date—even if you move out early. In New Brunswick, the notice period is:

• Month-to-month: Minimum one full month's written notice, ending on the last day of a tenancy month.
• Fixed-term: Usually ends automatically, but written notice may still be needed as outlined in your lease.

You can find more details on respectful ways to How to Properly End Your Rental Agreement as a Tenant.

Rent Responsibilities After Giving Notice

Even if you leave before your notice period ends, you must pay rent for the entire period unless the landlord rents to someone else sooner. Make sure your rent is up to date to protect your deposit and avoid disputes. For more on payment rights, visit Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

Final Utility Bills: What to Do Before You Leave

• Contact all utility providers 2–4 weeks before moving to schedule a service stop or transfer for your move-out date.
• Request a final meter reading (especially for electricity, water, or gas) on your last day in the unit.
• Update your mailing address to receive any last bills.
• Keep copies of your final bills and payment confirmations in case the landlord has questions.

If your landlord receives a copy of an unpaid utility bill, they may pay it and deduct the amount from your deposit if allowed by the lease and provincial rules.

Key Forms: Security Deposit and Inspection

• RTB Form F-1: Application for Return of Security Deposit
  View and download from the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
  When to use: After vacating, if your landlord does not return your deposit within 7 days, you can submit this form. For example, if you cleaned your apartment and paid all final utility bills but have not received your security deposit back, file F-1.
• Move-Out Inspection (suggested but not required):
  While not mandatory in New Brunswick, requesting an inspection report when leaving can help document the property's condition.
  Practical tip: Take photos or video as proof.

Disputes Over Final Bills and Rent

If you disagree with deductions from your security deposit or have concerns about outstanding bills, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick for assistance.^[3]

For a broader overview of tenants’ and landlords’ rights in this province, refer to Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

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FAQ: Final Bills and Moving Out in New Brunswick

1. What happens if I don’t pay my final utility bills?
   You may be chased by the utility provider for payment. Your landlord can also deduct unpaid utilities from your security deposit if your lease allows.
2. How long does my landlord have to return my security deposit?
   By law, your landlord must return your security deposit within 7 days of the end of your tenancy, unless you owe rent or damages.
3. Can the landlord deduct unpaid rent or utilities from my deposit?
   Yes. If you owe rent, utilities, or have caused damage, landlords can deduct these from your deposit, providing an accounting in writing.
4. Do I need to provide proof I paid my final utility bills?
   It's not required by law but is strongly recommended to avoid disputes over your deposit.
5. Who do I contact if there’s a dispute about final bills?
   Contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal to file a complaint or resolve disputes.

Key Takeaways

• Give proper notice and pay rent in full to the end of your tenancy period.
• Settle all utility accounts before moving and keep receipts as proof.
• File for return of your security deposit if it’s not provided within 7 days, using RTB Form F-1.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal (New Brunswick) – Dispute resolution, forms, tenant rights information
• Legal advice: Public Legal Education and Information Service of New Brunswick
• Housing or discrimination support: Saint John Human Development Council – tenant advocacy

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1. "Residential Tenancies Act, SNB 1975, c R-10.2" — New Brunswick rental law
2. Rental of Residential Premises – Forms, Service New Brunswick
3. Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick, official government site

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