Tenants and renters in New Brunswick often face the same basic question when changing homes: who is responsible for utility accounts, final bills and meter readings? This guide explains common practices for electricity, heat, water, internet and other services, and shows practical steps tenants can take when moving in or moving out. It covers how to check your lease, arrange service transfers, document final meter readings and what to do if a landlord or utility company disputes charges. The language is plain and aimed at helping tenants in New Brunswick understand responsibilities, keep records and use provincial resources if a disagreement needs formal review.
Who normally pays which utilities?
Responsibility for utilities often depends on the lease, the unit type (apartment, house, suite) and what is included in rent. Read your rental agreement carefully and confirm in writing who will pay each service before you move.
- Electricity: tenants usually set up and pay the account unless the lease says electricity is included.
- Natural gas or heating: tenants pay when billed directly; some landlords include heating in rent for multi-unit buildings.
- Water and sewer: often paid by landlords in apartment buildings but tenants pay in standalone homes unless lease says otherwise.
- Internet, cable and phone: typically set up and paid by the tenant who orders the service.
- Shared utilities (metered common areas): landlords usually manage these costs and may allocate them in the lease or via an agreed formula.
Before you move in: set up accounts and document the start
Confirm in writing which utilities you must open in your name. When you set up an account, ask for the start date and account number, and save any confirmation emails or receipts. If the lease includes utilities, keep a copy of the clause that explains what is included.
- Check your lease for utility clauses and ask for written clarification if anything is unclear.
- Contact the utility provider before move-in day to schedule activation or transfer of service to avoid interruptions.
- Record the initial meter reading with photos or a timestamped note and keep copies.
When moving out: final readings, bills and deposits
On move-out day, take final meter readings and photos, and ask the utility company for a final bill or account closing confirmation. If the landlord has billed you for a portion of a shared utility, ask for a breakdown and proof of the final reading.
- Take clear photos of all meters and note the date and time for your records.
- Pay any outstanding utility balances you are contractually responsible for, then keep receipts.
- Return keys and complete any required move-out forms with the landlord to avoid disputes over the final account.
Disputes and when to involve the tribunal
If a landlord or a utility provider claims you owe money you disagree with, try to resolve it directly first by sharing your meter photos and receipts. If you cannot resolve the issue, New Brunswick’s Residential Tenancies Tribunal handles tenancy disputes and can accept applications about billing and improper charges[1]. The provincial Residential Tenancies Act sets the rules that govern landlord and tenant responsibilities, including how utilities may be billed or included in rent[2].
Practical example: final bill disagreement
If you move out on June 15 and the landlord sends a bill for usage to June 30, provide your June 15 meter photos and a written explanation asking for correction. If the landlord refuses, you can apply to the tribunal for a decision and include your evidence and any lease clauses that relate to utilities[1].
Action steps for tenants
- Read and keep a copy of your lease and any written utility agreements.
- Call utility companies ahead of time to confirm account setup or transfer dates.
- Record meter readings (photos with date/time) at move-in and move-out.
- Save receipts and final bills to show proof of payment or account closure.
For practical moving checklists and step-by-step moving advice, see Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home and Moving Out Tips: A Tenant''s Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit. You can also look for available rental listings if you are searching for a new place: Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
FAQ
- Who pays for utilities if the lease is silent?
- If the lease does not say, tenants usually pay for accounts set up in their name; shared building utilities are often the landlord's responsibility. Check local rules and ask the tribunal if needed.
- Can a landlord bill me for previous tenant''s utility use?
- No — landlords should not charge you for another tenant''s usage. Provide documentation and apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if the landlord insists.
- What records should I keep when moving out?
- Keep photos of meter readings, account numbers, confirmation emails, final bills and receipts for any payments or deposits.
How-To
- Check your lease for utility clauses and note which services you must pay.
- Contact each utility provider to set up or close accounts on the agreed dates.
- Take dated photos of all meters at move-in and move-out and store them in one folder.
- Save final bills and receipts and request account closure confirmations from providers.
- If you cannot resolve a billing dispute, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and attach your evidence[1].
Key Takeaways
- Always confirm and document who pays each utility before moving.
- Take dated meter photos at move-in and move-out to avoid billing disputes.
- Keep leases and receipts; they are essential evidence in tribunal applications.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal — Service New Brunswick
- Residential Tenancies Act — Government of New Brunswick
- Consumer, Post-Secondary Education and Training — Tenant Forms and Guidance
