New Brunswick Tenant Utilities & Services Guide

If you’re renting in New Brunswick, understanding how utilities and services—like electricity, heat, water, and internet—are managed in your rental is essential for a smooth tenancy. This article answers the most common questions New Brunswick tenants have about their utilities, explains landlord and tenant responsibilities, and details what to do if issues arise. We keep things clear, practical, and tailored for New Brunswick’s legal framework.

Who is Responsible for Utilities in New Brunswick Rentals?

Your written lease or rental agreement should state who is responsible for setting up and paying for utilities such as:

• Electricity and heat (oil, propane, gas, or electric)
• Water and sewage
• Waste collection
• Internet and cable
• Other services (e.g., snow removal, lawn care)

Most standard leases list each utility line by line. If the lease is silent on some utilities, the landlord is legally required to provide and pay for them, especially for essential services like heat and running water.^[1] Before moving in, refer to your signed agreement or, if in doubt, ask the landlord to clarify in writing.

Utilities and the Law: Key Legislation

Utilities and services in New Brunswick rentals are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) of New Brunswick.^[1] The RTA makes it clear that landlords must maintain essential services unless a clear written agreement states that tenants take responsibility.

Common Utility Problems and Solutions for Tenants

Utility problems can be disruptive and sometimes stressful. Common scenarios include:

• Landlord abruptly shuts off heat or water (not allowed—see below)
• Unexpected outages due to disrepair or unpaid landlord bills
• Disputes over who should pay bills or arrange accounts
• Utility company refuses to start service due to landlord debts

If you encounter any of these, tenants can take clear, legal steps for quick resolution.

Quick Tips if a Utility is Shut Off

For issues related to essential repairs affecting utilities, review Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities—many of the same processes apply when heat, water, or electrical services need urgent attention.

Setting Up, Transferring, and Disconnecting Utilities When Moving

Moving in or out? Handling utilities smoothly prevents last-minute headaches. When moving in:

• Clarify with your landlord which accounts must be in your name and when to open them
• Provide utility companies with your move-in date and address, and request service activation ahead of time
• Always keep a record of account numbers and correspondence

When moving out:

• Confirm with your landlord and utility providers when to terminate or transfer your accounts
• Take photos of meters on move-out day for your records

For more on a smooth transition, see Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home.

Rental Deposits for Utilities

If your landlord requests a deposit meant specifically for utilities, ask for clear terms—deposits are for rent or damages only, unless separate arrangements are made. For more details on deposit rules, visit Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Forms for Utility or Services Complaints in New Brunswick

If your landlord isn’t meeting their obligations regarding utilities or services, you can formally apply to the provincial Residential Tenancies Tribunal. Key forms include:

• Application for Assistance (Form 6.1): Use this to request a hearing if your landlord is denying or interrupting essential services.
  Download Form 6.1 (Government of New Brunswick)
  Example: Your landlord stops paying for hot water. You fill out Form 6.1 to request the Tribunal to intervene.
• Notice of Complaint (Form 5): Use this if you wish to formally notify your landlord of a complaint about utility or service issues.
  Download Form 5 (Government of New Brunswick)
  Example: You received repeated unannounced disruptions to your electrical service. Use this form to log your complaint officially.

These forms and others are hosted on the Service New Brunswick Tenancy Forms page.

Your Rights If Utilities Are Unfairly Disrupted

Landlords must never disconnect or cut essential services as a form of penalty, threat, or eviction, as stated in the Residential Tenancies Act.^[1] If a severe problem continues, tenants can:

• Gather evidence (photos, bill statements, communication records)
• File Form 6.1 (Application for Assistance) with the Tribunal
• Request compensation if the situation caused expenses or hardship

For more background on your protections under provincial law, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

Where to Get Support

The Residential Tenancies Tribunal administers disputes, enforces the Residential Tenancies Act, and provides information services for both landlords and tenants in New Brunswick. They are your main source for help when you can’t resolve issues directly with your landlord.

Preventing and Resolving Utility Conflicts

Clear written agreements, proactive communication, and understanding the law are the best ways to avoid conflicts about utility payments or services. If problems arise, address them early and use formal complaints if informal negotiation fails.

Many New Brunswick tenants have successfully resolved utility disputes by filing the proper forms and working with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need support!

Looking for a new home with utilities included? Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings and filter rentals to match your preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord shut off my utilities if I’m behind on rent?
   No. Landlords in New Brunswick cannot legally shut off essential services such as heat, electricity, or water to force tenants to pay or leave. This is prohibited by law.
2. Who pays for utilities if the lease doesn’t mention them?
   If there is no clear, written agreement, the landlord is responsible for providing and paying for essential utilities.
3. What should I do if my landlord won’t fix a broken furnace or hot water tank?
   Contact your landlord in writing first. If there’s no prompt action, submit a formal complaint using Form 5, and escalate to the Tribunal by filing Form 6.1 if necessary.
4. Do I have to pay a deposit for utilities?
   Landlords may only collect deposits specifically for rent or damages. Any utility-specific deposit arrangement should be documented and clearly separate from the main security deposit.
5. Where can I get help if my utilities are disconnected?
   Contact the New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Tribunal for urgent intervention and information on your rights.

How To: Resolve a Utility Dispute as a Tenant in New Brunswick

1. How do I file a complaint if my landlord cuts off my utilities?
   Gather evidence, fill out Form 5 (Notice of Complaint), and send a copy to your landlord. If the issue isn’t fixed promptly, use Form 6.1 (Application for Assistance) to request Tribunal intervention.
2. How can I transfer utilities into my own name when moving in?
   Contact each utility provider, notify them of your start date and address, provide ID if needed, and confirm with your landlord which accounts are your responsibility.
3. What steps should I follow if my landlord won’t pay a shared utility bill?
   First, speak with your landlord and provide written documentation. If the service is at risk of disconnection, use Form 6.1 to seek a Tribunal order.

Key Takeaways

• New Brunswick tenants have clear legal protections ensuring access to essential utilities and services.
• Issues over payment or disruption should be addressed first in writing and, if unresolved, brought to the Tribunal using official forms.
• Always keep written records and, if needed, refer to Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick for more details.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Tribunal – Official body for rental disputes, complaints, and tenant services
• Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) of New Brunswick – Full legislation governing landlord/tenant relations
• Service New Brunswick Tenancy Forms – Apply, complain, or request assistance using official documents
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick – Detailed summary of New Brunswick rental laws and protections

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1. New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Act: Full official legislation text
2. Residential Tenancies Tribunal: Contact information, forms, and legal support

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