Do Tenants in PEI Have to Use Landlord-Supplied Wi-Fi?

If you’re renting in Prince Edward Island and your landlord includes Wi-Fi as part of your lease, you may wonder: Are you required to use it, or can you install your own Internet? Understanding your rights to utilities and services under PEI tenancy law can help you make informed choices and avoid disputes with your landlord.

Are Landlords Required to Provide Wi-Fi in PEI Rentals?

In Prince Edward Island, landlords are not legally required to provide Internet access (Wi-Fi or wired) unless it is specifically mentioned in your lease agreement. Common utilities landlords must include or specify are heat, water, and electricity. Internet service is considered an optional amenity in most cases.

  • If your lease contract says that Wi-Fi is included, your landlord must provide it as described.
  • If there is no reference to Internet access in your lease, you are responsible for arranging and paying for your own Internet.
  • Landlords cannot force you to use their Wi-Fi service unless it was a negotiated part of your signed agreement.

For more guidance on landlord and tenant responsibilities, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Can a Landlord Require Use of Their Wi-Fi Only?

If you’ve agreed to use landlord-provided Wi-Fi in your lease, using their Internet may be a condition of your tenancy. Otherwise, you have the right to set up your own service (e.g., calling a local provider or using mobile data), provided this does not involve damaging the rental unit or breaching the lease.

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Landlords cannot prevent you from installing a separate Internet service at your own expense unless:

  • There is a specific no-installation or modifications clause in your rental agreement
  • Your changes would significantly alter or damage the property (for example, drilling through walls without permission)

Tip: Before making any installation requests (like running new cables), always get your landlord’s written permission to avoid misunderstandings or disputes. This protects both parties and keeps your rental in good standing.

What If Landlord-Supplied Wi-Fi Is Unreliable or Unsafe?

If landlord-provided Wi-Fi is inadequate (slow, unreliable, or poses security privacy concerns), discuss your concerns with your landlord. You may come to a mutual agreement for you to install your own service, or the landlord may agree to upgrade the current Internet plan.

If Wi-Fi issues are affecting your health, safety, or ability to work/study (for example, for remote work requirements), document your concerns and request a solution in writing.

While Internet is not a basic service protected under the Rental of Residential Property Act, consistently unreliable or unsafe access that conflicts with your lease agreement could be the basis for a formal complaint.

For other common rental issues, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

How PEI Tenancy Law Addresses Internet Utilities

Prince Edward Island’s Rental of Residential Property Act governs residential tenancies. This law covers required services (water, heat, electricity), but Internet is not included as an essential service. Any utility or service included in your lease creates a legal obligation for your landlord to supply (or maintain) what’s offered.

For an overview of your rights in PEI, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island.

PEI’s Rental Office: Where to Go for Disputes

If you have a complaint or disagreement with your landlord about Wi-Fi or other included services, contact the Office of the Director of Residential Rental Property (commonly called PEI's Rental Office). This tribunal oversees all residential tenancy issues in PEI.

Official Complaint or Application

  • Application for Enforcement of Statutory or Other Conditions (Form 2):
    If your landlord fails to provide a utility or included service as promised, use Form 2 to request a hearing. For example, if your signed lease promised "free Wi-Fi included" but none is provided (and the landlord won’t resolve), you can file this form.
  • Application for Permission to Make Alterations (Form 10):
    If you wish to install your own Internet service and it may involve modifications to the property, you should request landlord consent. Use Form 10. Example: you want to install a cable modem requiring drilling, and your landlord has not responded to your request.

Both forms, once completed and signed, should be submitted to PEI's Rental Office for review and processing. You can find more information and forms here.

After the Rental Agreement: Reviewing Your Lease

After moving in, review your rental agreement carefully to confirm what utilities and services are included. If you’re unsure about any terms or clauses related to Internet/Wi-Fi, ask your landlord for clarification. For more advice, visit What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Still searching for a place with the Internet access you need? Browse apartments for rent in Canada that match your requirements.

FAQ: Tenant Internet Rights in Prince Edward Island

  1. Can my landlord charge extra for Wi-Fi after I move in?
    No, not unless you agree in writing. Charges for included utilities must be set out in your signed lease.
  2. Can I install my own Internet if my landlord already provides Wi-Fi?
    Usually yes, unless your lease prohibits other installations or modifications. Always get written permission for major changes.
  3. Does my landlord have the right to ban certain Internet use or limit speeds?
    Landlords can set terms in the lease about use (e.g., no illegal activity) or speeds if the Wi-Fi is included, but you’re not required to accept unfair restrictions unless you agreed to them.
  4. What do I do if the landlord’s Wi-Fi is unsafe or exposes my privacy?
    Discuss your concerns first. If unresolved, you can request permission to set up your own service or file Form 2 with the PEI Rental Office if your lease is being violated.
  5. Who handles Wi-Fi-related complaints in PEI tenancies?
    Complaints can be made to the Office of the Director of Residential Rental Property if related to your lease agreement.

Key Takeaways for PEI Tenants

  • You do not have to use your landlord's Wi-Fi unless your lease says so in Prince Edward Island.
  • Internet is not an essential service under PEI law, but lease terms are legally binding.
  • Allowable modifications to install your own Internet usually require landlord consent.

Read your rental agreement carefully and communicate early with your landlord about any Internet needs or issues, keeping written records where possible.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

  1. PEI's governing law: Rental of Residential Property Act (Government of Prince Edward Island).
  2. PEI Rental Office: Office of the Director of Residential Rental Property (Government of Prince Edward Island).
  3. Official forms: PEI Rental Property Forms and Resources (Government of Prince Edward Island).

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