Utilities and Services Guide for Tenants in Northwest Territories

Moving into a rental in the Northwest Territories introduces questions about utilities and services—like who pays for electricity, water, heat, and how to set things up. Understanding your rights and responsibilities with utilities is a key part of ensuring a positive tenancy experience in the North’s unique climate.

Key Utilities & Services in Rental Units

Your lease should outline which utilities and services are included. In the Northwest Territories, these may include:

• Electricity (often supplied by NTPC or Northland Utilities)
• Heat (electric or oil)
• Water and sewage
• Garbage collection
• Internet and cable (usually extra)

The lease agreement determines what you must pay. If utilities are not included, you’ll be responsible for setting up accounts and covering the costs directly. Always confirm these details before signing a rental agreement, as costs can be substantial—especially in winter.

Who Pays for Utilities?

Landlords and tenants can negotiate responsibility for utilities. In some cases, all are included; in others, tenants pay some or all separately. Your rental agreement should clearly state:

• Which utilities are included in your rent
• How extra charges will be managed
• Whether meters are shared or individual

For more about rights and responsibilities after you sign your lease, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Setting Up and Transferring Utilities

Tenants generally need to set up accounts for utilities that are not included in rent. Contact the utility provider before your move-in date to avoid service disruptions. You may be asked to pay a deposit or provide proof of residency. Documents might include your signed lease or identification. If you’re moving out, notify providers in advance to close accounts and avoid charges after you’ve left.

Utility Service Interruptions and Repairs

If your rental experiences a utility outage (like no heat or power), report the issue to your landlord immediately. In cold climates, heat is considered an essential service. Landlords are responsible for repairs when:

• The lease says heat or other utilities are included, or
• The disruption is due to a structural or mechanical breakdown (not non-payment by tenant)

For emergencies, such as lack of heat in winter, tenants can contact the Rental Office (NWT Residential Tenancies Office). If repairs are delayed and your health or safety is at risk, review Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for further guidance.

Relevant Tenant Forms and Where to Find Them

The Northwest Territories uses specific forms for utility disputes or repairs:

• Application to the Rental Officer (Form A): Used if you need to request an order for repairs or to resolve disputes over utilities. Include details and supporting documents. Find the form at the NWT Residential Tenancies Office forms page.
• Condition Inspection Report: Often completed at move-in, it documents the state of the rental, including utility-related fixtures. Ask your landlord for a copy, as the form is standard but not always mandatory.

As a practical example: if your rental agreement says heat is included but your landlord fails to provide it, use Form A to apply for an urgent repair order.

What the Law Says: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities

The Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories) sets the minimum standards and rights regarding utilities. Landlords must ensure premises meet basic standards of habitability—this covers the supply of heat, electricity, and running water unless the lease says otherwise. Shared utility meters must be clearly outlined in your lease, with written consent for cost-sharing arrangements.

You can also learn more about your rights in the Northwest Territories at the dedicated Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories page.

Moving In: Utilities Checklist for New Tenants

• Read your lease carefully—ask what utilities are included and what you pay for
• Set up accounts for electricity, heat, and water (as required)
• Complete and keep a move-in inspection report to document conditions
• Store utility bills and receipts
• If you experience issues, document everything and contact your landlord in writing

Starting off organized helps ensure a smooth tenancy in your new home. To browse apartments for rent in Canada that match your needs, browse apartments for rent in Canada.

FAQ: Utilities & Services in Northwest Territories Rentals

1. Are landlords required to supply heat in the Northwest Territories?
   Yes, landlords must supply heat unless your lease states the tenant is responsible. If your lease is unclear, the landlord usually provides essential services like heat due to the harsh climate.
2. Can my landlord turn off utilities if I’m late with rent?
   No. Landlords cannot disconnect utilities as a penalty for late rent. Utility disconnections are highly regulated and not a lawful way to enforce rent payments.
3. What should I do if there’s no hot water or power?
   Contact your landlord promptly, then report the matter to the NWT Residential Tenancies Office if it is not fixed quickly, especially if your health or safety is affected.
4. How can I prove who is responsible for a utility bill?
   Check your lease, which must detail utility responsibilities. Utility account documentation and receipts can also provide proof.
5. What forms do I use if my landlord won’t address a utilities issue?
   File an Application to the Rental Officer (Form A) at the Residential Tenancies Office, attaching a record of your complaints and supporting documents.

How To: Manage Utilities Issues in Your Rental

1. How to set up a utility account in the Northwest Territories
   Contact NTPC or Northland Utilities with your lease and identification before move-in. Complete any required deposit.
2. How to dispute a utilities charge with your landlord
   Gather lease terms, bills, and correspondence. Present your case in writing to your landlord; if unresolved, submit an Application to the Rental Officer (Form A).
3. How to ensure essential services are provided during winter
   Remind your landlord of their legal obligations. Call the Rental Officer if heat or water is not restored promptly in winter months.

Key Takeaways

• Always clarify utility responsibilities in your rental agreement.
• Landlords must ensure essential services (like heat) unless the lease says otherwise.
• Maintain written records and use official forms for disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• NWT Residential Tenancies Office – Forms, applications, and tenancy information
• NTPC Customer Service – Electricity provider for much of the Northwest Territories
• Legal Line (Toll-free): 1-844-835-8050

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1. NWT Residential Tenancies Office, Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories)
2. NWT Rental Office, official rental forms
3. NTPC, customer service information

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