Shared Utilities in NWT Rentals: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities

In the Northwest Territories, understanding who is responsible for paying shared utilities—like heat, water, power, and internet—in rental housing is essential for both tenants and landlords. Utility costs can be substantial, especially in the north, making it critical to clarify payment arrangements before signing a lease.

Who Pays for Shared Utilities in the Northwest Territories?

There is no universal rule that says either the landlord or tenant must pay for shared utilities. Instead, payment responsibilities must be clearly outlined in the tenancy agreement. Utilities might include electricity, heat, water, internet, or garbage services. Sometimes, costs are split between multiple tenants or units in a building; other times, the landlord covers some or all charges directly.

• If the tenancy agreement states you must pay all or some utilities: You are legally responsible for those costs, as specified.
• If utilities are included in the rent: The landlord handles those utility accounts, and you are not billed directly.
• If sharing utilities with other tenants: The lease should explain how costs are divided, such as by square footage, number of bedrooms, or equally.

Make sure the agreement clearly says:

• Which utilities are included in your rent
• For shared meters, how payment amounts are calculated
• Who arranges new utility accounts or payments

Common Utility Sharing Arrangements

• Single Meter for the Whole Building: Landlord may include utilities in the rent or split the bill among tenants.
• Individual Unit Meters: Each tenant pays for their own use directly to the utility provider.
• Flat Rate Charges: Some landlords charge a fixed monthly rate for utilities in addition to rent.

Confirm how your specific situation is set up and request written clarification if anything is unclear.

Legal Protections and What to Look for in Your Lease

In the Northwest Territories, tenant rights and obligations around utilities are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act (NWT)¹. This legislation requires that lease agreements must specify who pays for which utilities. Verbal agreements are not recommended—always insist on written clauses regarding utilities, especially if sharing with other tenants.

For your protection, ask your landlord to specify all utility costs and arrangements in writing before signing a lease.

If you’re unsure about your rights or have concerns about the lease, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for further guidance on what both parties must provide and maintain.

What Happens if Utility Payments Are Missed?

• If the agreement states you pay for utilities and you do not pay, service could be disconnected and you may breach your lease.
• If the landlord agreed to pay but fails to, tenants can apply to the tribunal for remedies.

Official Tribunal for Tenant Disputes

Disputes over utility payments, billing, or termination of service should be brought to the Northwest Territories Rental Office, the official tribunal handling residential tenancies in the territory.

Relevant Forms and Their Use

• Application to the Rental Officer (Form 1): Used when tenants wish to resolve disputes, including arguments about utility payment obligations or wrongful disconnection.
  • When to use it: For example, if your landlord is responsible for paying utilities but fails to do so, leading to disconnection.
  • How to use: Download Form 1 from the NWT Department of Justice website here. Complete and file it following the Rental Office guidelines.

Always attach copies of your lease and any relevant bills or correspondence to support your case.

Tips for Tenants: Protect Yourself When Sharing Utilities

• Before moving in, make sure the rental agreement spells out in detail how all utilities are paid.
• Request receipts for every shared payment and keep all documentation.
• Avoid cash handoffs for shared utilities when possible; use e-transfers or other traceable payments.
• If paying the landlord for utilities, confirm you are not overcharged compared to the utility provider's actual rates.
• Regularly review bills if you suspect unfair division of costs.

What to Do If You Have a Dispute

If you believe your agreement—or the law—is not being followed (for example, a utility was cut off when you paid your share), the NWT Rental Office can help resolve the issue. It’s a good idea to gather:

• A copy of your lease showing utility arrangements
• Receipts or bank statements of payments you’ve made
• Any correspondence with your landlord or other tenants

To learn more about resolving rental issues, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

More Resources for NWT Tenants

• Browse apartments for rent in Canada and compare utility arrangements on Canada's best rental listings platform.
• Get details on your territory’s rental laws and shared utility rights at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

Frequently Asked Questions about Shared Utilities

1. Can a landlord change who pays for utilities partway through my lease?
   If your lease says utilities are included in your rent but the landlord wants tenants to start paying separately, they cannot make this change during your current lease without your agreement. Any changes must be clearly documented and agreed upon in a new or amended lease.
2. What do I do if one roommate doesn’t pay their share of utilities?
   If you have a joint lease, all tenants are usually equally responsible for all obligations in the lease—including utilities. If you pay more to keep the service on, sort it out with your roommates privately first. If you cannot resolve it, contact the Rental Office for advice.
3. Are landlords allowed to charge more than the actual utility bill for shared services?
   No, landlords cannot mark up utility costs above actual charges unless your lease clearly states you are paying a flat fee, in which case the arrangement must comply with the Residential Tenancies Act (NWT).
4. What happens if utilities get disconnected and it’s the landlord’s fault?
   If your service is lost because your landlord failed to pay something they were responsible for, you may be eligible for compensation or other remedies through the Rental Office. Always keep evidence of payments and your lease agreement.

Conclusion: What Should NWT Tenants Remember?

• Clarify all utility payment arrangements in writing before signing any lease.
• If utilities are shared, understand how costs are split and seek documentation for all payments.
• Contact the Rental Office promptly if you are facing a dispute over shared utility bills or services.

Keeping good records and understanding your rights will help ensure a fair and stable rental experience in the Northwest Territories.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Northwest Territories Rental Office – For forms, guides, and dispute resolution
• Read the Residential Tenancies Act (NWT) – Full legal text
• Tenant support: Contact your local community government or territorial legal aid office for free information or help with forms
• For further reading, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories)
2. Northwest Territories Rental Office
3. NWT Rental Office Application Form (Form 1)

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