Top 5 Utility and Service Rules for Tenants in Nunavut

Understanding who pays for utilities and how services are managed in a Nunavut rental home is crucial—especially given the region’s unique housing challenges and climate. Whether you’re renting in Iqaluit or a remote community, getting clear information on utilities and essential services will help you avoid surprises and support your rights as a tenant. Here are the top things Nunavut renters should know about utilities and services.

What Are Utilities & Essential Services?

Utilities refer to services like electricity, heating, water, sewage, and garbage collection. In Nunavut, due to the territory’s environment and infrastructure, utilities can have a big impact on comfort, cost, and safety.

1. Check Your Lease: Who Pays for Utilities?

Always review your rental agreement before moving in. In Nunavut, either the landlord or the tenant may be responsible for paying utilities—there’s no standard rule. The lease should clearly state who pays for:

• Heating fuel (diesel or oil is common)
• Electricity
• Water and sewage
• Garbage and recycling
• Internet and phone (optional, usually tenant’s responsibility)

If you’re not sure what’s covered, ask your landlord before you sign. For more advice, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

2. Minimum Service Standards & Your Rights

Nunavut’s landlords must provide a safe, habitable place to live under the Residential Tenancies Act (Nunavut)^[1]. Landlords must make sure basic utilities like heat, water, and electricity are available—even if the tenant pays.

• If your rental loses an essential service (like no heat in winter), report the issue to your landlord right away.
• If repairs aren’t done quickly, you can seek help from the Office of Residential Tenancies.

For advice on keeping your home safe and healthy, explore Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

3. What If Utilities Are Disrupted or Not Working?

If your heat, electricity, or water stops working, it’s important to act fast, as this can quickly become a health matter in Nunavut’s climate. If the problem is not fixed quickly after you notify your landlord, you can contact Nunavut’s rental tribunal:

• Office of Residential Tenancies — Responsible for rental disputes and enforcement

Maintain records of all communications with your landlord regarding the problem and any actions taken.

4. Utility Transfers and Starting/Ending Service

If you’re responsible for the utilities, you’ll usually need to set up and pay accounts in your own name. When moving in:

• Contact providers such as Qulliq Energy Corporation (for electricity) or Aquatic Services (for water).
• Ask your landlord for previous account info if needed.
• Make sure utilities are transferred back to your landlord or the next tenant when you move out to avoid unwanted charges.

Official Forms You May Need

• Residential Tenancy Application Form (Nunavut)
  Use this to make a formal complaint about a utility issue, rent dispute, or service problem. Access the official PDF here.
  For example: If your landlord does not repair the heating and you’ve notified them in writing, use this form to request a hearing with the Office of Residential Tenancies.

5. Utility Costs and Rent Increases

Some landlords include utilities in the rent, while others ask tenants to pay separately. This can impact how and when rent increases are given:

• If utilities are included in your rent, check your lease to see if increases might reflect rising utility costs.
• Rent increases must follow territorial rules and notice periods. While Nunavut does not set a provincial guideline, requirements are outlined in the Residential Tenancies Act.

For more about your rights and rules on rent changes or your obligations as a tenant, see the comprehensive Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut page.

Wondering about options across Canada? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme using map tools and nationwide listings.

FAQ: Nunavut Tenant Utility & Services Questions

1. Who is responsible for paying utilities in Nunavut rentals?
   The tenant or landlord may be responsible, depending on your lease. Always check your rental agreement for clear terms on utilities.
2. What utilities are considered essential in Nunavut?
   Heating, water, electricity, and sewage services are essential. In remote areas, garbage collection may also be critical to health and safety.
3. What should I do if my landlord won’t fix a utility problem?
   Contact your landlord in writing, keep records, then submit a Residential Tenancy Application Form to the Office of Residential Tenancies if the issue is not resolved.
4. Are utility costs included in the rent or separate?
   This depends on your rental agreement. Ask for written clarification before signing anything.
5. How do I switch utilities into my name when moving in?
   Contact the local providers and provide necessary information like your lease and ID. Confirm with your landlord if you need specific account numbers.

How-To: Handling Utility Disputes or Disruptions

1. How do I formally report a utility disruption in Nunavut?
   1. Notify your landlord in writing right away. 2. Complete the Residential Tenancy Application Form if the landlord doesn’t resolve the issue. 3. Submit it to the Office of Residential Tenancies with supporting documents (photos, messages). 4. Wait for your hearing or mediation appointment.
2. How do I get utilities transferred into my name?
   1. Contact local utility providers (like Qulliq Energy Corporation). 2. Provide rental agreement, ID, and move-in date. 3. Confirm start date and billing.

Key Takeaways

• Always confirm who pays for which utilities and get it in writing before renting.
• Your landlord must maintain essential services—even if you pay for utilities yourself.
• For unresolved issues, use the official application form and tribunal resources for help.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (Nunavut) – Guidance, forms, and dispute resolution
• Residential Tenancy Application Form: Download PDF
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut
• For general rental search: Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme

---

1. Residential Tenancies Act (Nunavut) – Current legislation
2. Office of Residential Tenancies (Government of Nunavut)

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy