Top 50 Questions: Utilities & Services for Tenants in New Brunswick

Utilities & Services New Brunswick published June 26, 2025 Flag of New Brunswick
Who is responsible for paying for utilities in my rental unit?
Responsibility depends on your lease; check your rental agreement to see what utilities (heat, power, water) you must pay for.
Can my landlord shut off my utilities if I am late with rent?
No, landlords cannot legally shut off any utility service as a way to collect rent.
Is my landlord required to provide heat in the winter?
Yes, if your lease says heat is included or if it is required by law and your landlord pays for it.
What can I do if my landlord won’t repair a broken furnace or heater?
Notify your landlord in writing. If not fixed quickly, contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for help.
Where do I make a tenant complaint in New Brunswick?
File a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
If my utilities are included, can my landlord increase my rent to cover rising costs?
Rent can only be increased according to New Brunswick law and tenancy agreement terms; proper notice applies.
What utilities must a landlord provide by law?
Landlords must supply any utilities stated in the lease and maintain essential services like heat and water if included.
If I pay my own utilities, can I get disconnected if I miss a payment?
Yes, if the utility bill is in your name, the service provider can disconnect for non-payment based on their rules.
What can I do if my power is off but I’ve paid my bills?
Contact your landlord and utility provider immediately; if not resolved, reach out to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
Can my landlord make me pay for shared utilities?
Only if your lease says so; otherwise, landlords cannot charge you for utilities shared with other tenants or units.
Are utility charges separate from rent in New Brunswick?
It depends on your lease. Some include utilities in rent, others list them separately – always check your agreement.
Who repairs appliances like fridges and stoves if they break?
If they are supplied by the landlord, the landlord is responsible for repairs unless the tenant caused the damage.
Can my landlord enter to check utility meters without notice?
Landlords must give 24 hours’ written notice unless it’s an emergency.
Am I allowed to change utility suppliers?
Only if utilities are in your name; you may change providers unless your lease restricts it.
What is considered an “essential service”?
Heat, water, hot water, electricity, gas, and lockable doors and windows are essential services under New Brunswick law.
Can a landlord turn off water for repairs?
Temporary shut-offs for necessary repairs are allowed but notice should be given and service restored promptly.
If my heat stops working during winter, what can I do?
Notify your landlord right away in writing. If not fixed quickly, contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
Is there a minimum temperature landlords must maintain?
Local municipal by-laws may set minimum temperatures; generally landlords must provide safe, livable conditions in winter.
Do tenants need to pay for garbage collection?
Check your lease; most often landlords cover it, but it can be a tenant’s responsibility if agreed in writing.
Can a landlord force me to set up utility accounts myself?
If your lease says you’re responsible for utilities, you must set up the accounts in your name.
What do I do if I paid utilities, but landlord didn’t pay the bill?
If your rent includes utilities and service is disconnected, contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
Do I have to pay for repairs to electrical wiring?
No, unless you caused the damage. Repairs to base building systems are the landlord’s duty.
How can I complain if my water or heat isn’t working?
Write to your landlord. If not resolved quickly, file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
Can my landlord install separate meters for each unit?
Yes, but changes in how utilities are billed require your consent if your lease states they are included in rent.
If I move out, who is responsible for unpaid utility bills?
If the bills are in your name, you are responsible for paying them until your tenancy ends.
What happens if utility charges are higher than expected?
If utilities are included, your rent stays the same. If you pay directly, higher charges are your responsibility.
Does the landlord have to provide internet or cable?
No, unless your lease specifically says so.
Am I responsible for damage caused by a burst pipe?
Only if you caused the damage by misuse or neglect; otherwise, it’s the landlord’s responsibility.
What are my rights if my landlord withholds electricity?
Withholding essential utilities is illegal; contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal immediately.
Can I deduct utility costs from my rent if landlord fails to pay?
No, unless authorized by the Tribunal; always seek official guidance first.
What form do I use to file a complaint about utilities?
Use the RTB form “Application for Assistance” (Form 1000); submit it with your complaint details to the Tribunal.
Can utilities be disconnected for major renovations?
Only for the minimum time required and with proper advance notice.
Who pays for cleaning or replacing air and furnace filters?
Unless your lease says otherwise, landlords are responsible for furnace maintenance.
Can my landlord charge a fee for turning on utilities?
Only if the lease clearly states such fees and you agreed in writing.
Do I have to leave if water or heat is off for days?
Not necessarily, but you can apply to the Tribunal for a remedy or possible rent reduction.
Who is responsible for snow removal?
Check your lease. If not stated, landlords are generally responsible for common areas.
Can my landlord charge me for a shared water meter?
Only if your lease states the costs must be shared; otherwise, no.
What is the Residential Tenancies Tribunal?
The Residential Tenancies Tribunal is the official body that resolves landlord and tenant disputes in New Brunswick.
Can the landlord make me pay for repairs if I didn’t cause the problem?
No; you are only responsible for damage you, your guests, or pets cause.
What do I do if my lease is unclear about utilities?
Ask your landlord for clarification in writing; disputes can be resolved by the Tribunal.
Can I get compensation if my landlord fails to provide utilities?
Yes, you may apply for rent abatement or other remedies through the Tribunal.
Can a landlord require deposits for utilities?
Utility companies may require deposits; landlords cannot charge extra utility deposits not allowed in the lease.
Are there assistance programs for utility costs in New Brunswick?
Yes, visit GNB Energy Assistance for help.
Do landlords have to provide smoke detectors?
Yes, landlords must provide and maintain smoke detectors under the law.
Does the law cover hot water as an essential service?
Yes, hot water is considered an essential service in New Brunswick.
What legislation covers utilities and services for tenants in New Brunswick?
The Residential Tenancies Act, SNB 1975, c R-10.2.

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

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