Utilities & Services FAQs for Tenants in Northwest Territories

Understanding utilities and services is a crucial part of renting in the Northwest Territories. As a tenant, you might wonder who pays for heat, what to do during service outages, or how responsibilities are split between you and your landlord. This guide answers common questions, outlines relevant forms, and explains your rights under territorial law, helping you feel confident and prepared during your tenancy.

Who Pays for Utilities in Northwest Territories Rentals?

Responsibility for utilities (such as electricity, heat, water, and internet) depends on your rental agreement. Most leases specify which services are included in rent and which are separate.

• If your lease includes utilities, your landlord must ensure services are provided and paid for.
• If the lease states tenants pay certain utilities, ensure the utility accounts are in your name and payments are timely.

Always review your written agreement for details. If you’re unsure or have a dispute, contacting the Residential Tenancies Office of the Northwest Territories can provide guidance.^[1]

What Happens if a Utility Service Fails?

Heat and hot water are essential services, especially during winter. If these services are interrupted:

• Contact your landlord immediately to report the problem.
• In emergencies where the landlord does not act, tenants may contact local authorities for help or seek urgent repairs.

Both tenants and landlords have obligations to maintain a habitable home. For a complete overview of shared obligations, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Key Tip

Common Utilities & Services Covered in Rentals

• Heat (often critical in the NWT)
• Electricity
• Water and sewage
• Garbage collection
• Internet and cable (sometimes, but not always)

It’s common for some rentals to include all or most utilities, while others require tenants to arrange and pay for some themselves. If you’re moving in, double-check what is included and set up your own accounts where necessary. For help preparing, read Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home.

What Forms Do Tenants Need for Utility Issues?

• Application to the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO): This form is used if you have an unresolved dispute with your landlord over utilities (for example, if they stop providing heat included in rent). Download the Residential Tenancy Application Form. Fill it out and submit it to the RTO. Keep a copy for your records.
• Notice of Entry: If a landlord needs access to fix a utility issue, they must serve written notice (at least 24 hours in advance, unless it’s an emergency). There is no mandatory government form, but written notice must state the reason and entry time. See details at the Residential Tenancies Office website.

Always try to resolve issues directly. If that fails, submitting the correct form helps keep things official and protects your rights.

Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities

Under the Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories), landlords must provide working essential services if included. Tenants must use services properly and pay any required bills promptly.

• Landlords: Maintain systems supplying heat, water, and electricity if included in rent.
• Tenants: Don’t intentionally damage utility systems; report issues quickly.

If you’re new to renting, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories for an overview of your rights and the latest legal updates.

If disputes about utilities or services persist, the tribunal for residential tenancies in the Northwest Territories is the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO).^[1]

Moving, Setting Up, or Transferring Utilities

When you move in or out, you may need to set up, transfer, or cancel utility accounts. Contact local utility providers directly (e.g., Northland Utilities, Northwestel, municipal water departments). For tips on a smooth move and ensuring utility coverage, check Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home.

Pro tip: Keep all receipts and written communications about utilities. This protects you if disputes arise later.

For a broader search in the Canadian rental market–for homes where utilities are included or excluded–you can Browse apartments for rent in Canada.

FAQ: Utilities & Services in Northwest Territories Rentals

1. Are landlords required to provide heat during winter? Yes. Landlords must ensure adequate heat is supplied during cold months if it’s included in your lease. If heat is separately metered and you’re responsible for it, you must arrange payment and service.
2. What can I do if a landlord turns off my utilities? Landlords cannot withhold essential services to force tenants out or for any other reason. Contact the Residential Tenancies Office and, if needed, file an application for dispute resolution.
3. Is internet considered an essential service? No, internet service is generally not legally required. Only heat, water, and electricity are considered essential.
4. Can a landlord increase my utility charges during my lease? A landlord cannot change your utility costs unless your rental agreement allows for it, or through proper legal notice when renewing or changing the agreement.
5. How do I set up utility accounts when moving in? Contact relevant providers directly prior to your move-in date, and confirm with your landlord which services you are responsible for.

How To: Resolve Utility Disputes With Your Landlord

1. How do I file a complaint about a utilities issue with the Residential Tenancies Office?
   • Step 1: Gather evidence (correspondence, bills, photos).
   • Step 2: Try to resolve the issue directly with your landlord.
   • Step 3: Download and complete the Residential Tenancy Application Form.
   • Step 4: Submit the form by mail or in person to the Residential Tenancies Office. Keep copies for your records.
2. How can I ensure utilities are included before signing a lease?
   • Ask your landlord for clarification and ensure details are stated clearly in your written lease before you sign.
3. How do I request urgent repairs for utility outages?
   • Call or email your landlord as soon as possible. If it’s an emergency and the landlord cannot be reached, you may authorize repairs after making reasonable attempts to contact the landlord. Document each step.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Check your lease carefully to know your utility responsibilities.
• Essential services like heat must be provided if included in your rental contract.
• Unresolved disputes over utilities can be brought before the Residential Tenancies Office for help.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Office (NWT): Dispute resolution, forms, and information
• Residential Tenancies Act (full legislation PDF)
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories: Up-to-date information and FAQ for NWT renters
• Local utility companies: For setting up or reporting issues with power, water, or heating

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1. Residential Tenancies Office (NWT)
2. NWT Residential Tenancies Act (official text)

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