After an eviction, tenants in Ontario may face extra costs from utility companies such as reconnection deposits, outstanding account balances, or charges for equipment restoration. Knowing your rights and the practical steps to take can reduce surprise costs and speed up restoring essential services. This guide explains why utilities may require a deposit after an eviction, what evidence or documentation to gather, how to request a waiver or repayment, and which official forms or tribunals can help you pursue a dispute. It is written for renters and tenants who need clear, practical steps and links to government resources so you can act confidently, protect your credit, and restore utilities as quickly as possible in Ontario.
How reconnection deposits work in Ontario
Utility companies and energy providers often set their own policies for reconnection deposits after an eviction or when an account shows unpaid balances. A reconnection deposit is separate from a landlord security deposit and is charged by the utility to manage perceived risk. If you need to challenge a fee or confirm responsibility, the Landlord and Tenant Board is the provincial tribunal that handles tenancy disputes and related applications.[1] The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 sets out rules about who is responsible for utilities under a tenancy agreement and what remedies may be available.[2] Official forms and applications for tenancy issues are available from the Landlord and Tenant Board's forms page.[3]
- Reconnection deposit equal to a few months of average billing or a flat fee.
- Payment of outstanding balances before reconnecting service.
- Credit checks or proof of identity and a new account setup fee.
- Documentation requirements such as a landlord reference, proof of tenancy, or payment history.
What you can do as a tenant
Start by asking the utility for a written, itemized bill and a clear explanation of the deposit amount and conditions for return. If the tenancy agreement or the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 shows the landlord is responsible for utilities, tell the landlord in writing and consider applying to the Landlord and Tenant Board if they refuse to address the account. For general guidance on security and related payments, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know and, when moving, consult How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out. If you need to move quickly because services are unavailable, you can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to compare nearby options.
Practical steps to challenge or reduce a deposit
- Ask the utility in writing for an itemized bill and the formal policy that led to the deposit.
- Gather documents: lease, proof of recent payments, identification, and any correspondence showing responsibility.
- Request a payment plan or a reduced deposit and get any agreement in writing.
- If the utility or landlord refuses to cooperate, file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board or contact the utility regulator for your service.
FAQ
- Can a utility require a reconnection deposit after eviction?
- Yes. Private utilities can require a reconnection deposit based on account history and company policies; ask for a written explanation and itemized charges to review.
- Who is responsible for utility charges when a tenant is evicted?
- Responsibility depends on the lease and the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006; if the landlord arranged the account, they may be liable for outstanding balances in some cases.
- Can I get a reconnection deposit back?
- Often deposits are refundable once the account remains in good standing for a set period; request the return terms in writing and file a dispute if the utility improperly withholds funds.
How-To
- Collect all documentation related to the account, including past bills, lease excerpts, and eviction notices.
- Request an itemized deposit explanation from the utility and save that communication.
- Propose a reasonable payment plan or reduced deposit in writing and ask for confirmation.
- If unresolved, file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board or contact the utility regulator for mediation or complaint processes.
- Follow up in writing and keep a record of all responses until the issue is closed.
Key Takeaways
- Ask for itemized bills and written reasons for any reconnection deposit.
- Gather lease and payment proof before negotiating or filing a dispute.
- Use the Landlord and Tenant Board and official resources to resolve disputes.
