Final Utility and Rent Payments When Moving Out in PEI

Moving out of a rental in Prince Edward Island (PEI) means understanding your responsibilities for both final rent and utility bills. This guide explains what tenants need to know, practical steps to avoid surprises, and where to get support if disputes arise. Knowing your rights as a tenant in PEI will help make your move-out process smooth and fair.

Understanding Your Responsibilities for Rent and Utilities

When your lease ends or you give notice to leave your rental, you're still responsible for paying all rent and any utility bills attached to your tenancy agreement. In PEI, tenancy law protects both landlord and tenant interests, so ensuring you meet these responsibilities means you avoid deductions from your deposit or potential collection actions.

When Are the Final Utility Bills Due?

If you pay for utilities (like electricity, heat, or water) separately from rent, make sure accounts are closed or transferred on your move-out date. Utilities used up to your last day are your responsibility. Contact your utility providers in advance to arrange final meter readings, billing, and to pay any outstanding balance.

• Notify your utility company of your move-out date (ideally 2–4 weeks in advance)
• Arrange for a final reading and bill to your name
• Keep records and receipts of your final payments

Paying Your Last Month’s Rent

Regardless of when you leave, your obligation is to pay rent up to the end of your notice period or the lease’s natural end. If you gave proper notice (using Form 1: Tenant Notice to End Tenancy), you'll be responsible only for rent until the effective move-out date. Partial months are calculated pro-rata if stated in the agreement or by mutual agreement.

• If you paid a rental deposit, it can only be applied to outstanding rent if both parties agree or if ordered by the Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission (IRAC)
• Do not withhold your final rent payment to "cover" your deposit

Key Steps for a Smooth Move-Out

• Review your lease and any responsibilities for utility payments
• Contact utility providers to settle accounts
• Provide forwarding contact info in writing for any final bills
• Schedule a move-out inspection with your landlord to confirm the condition of the unit (not mandatory but strongly recommended)
• Provide proof of utility bill payment if requested by your landlord

Keep all documentation and receipts for rent and utility payments, especially if you plan to dispute deposit deductions or billing issues.

Official Forms You May Need

• Form 1: Tenant Notice to End Tenancy – Official link
  Use if you are ending your lease. File and deliver this to your landlord according to the timelines in the PEI Rental of Residential Property Act.
• Form 6: Application by Tenant/Owner (Dispute Form) – Official link
  Use to dispute charges or if your landlord deducts money for unpaid rent or utilities that you disagree with. Submit this form to PEI’s Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission.

The Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission (IRAC) manages rental disputes, including utility bill disagreements or security deposit issues.

Legislation Protecting Tenants

Your rights and responsibilities for utilities and rent in PEI are outlined in the Rental of Residential Property Act.^[1] Key sections explain landlord and tenant responsibilities, deposit use, and dispute processes.

For more on deposit rules, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Disputes Over Final Utility or Rent Payments

If your landlord claims you owe money for unpaid utilities or rent after you move out, they must provide proof of the charges. If you disagree, you can file an Application (Form 6) to IRAC for review and resolution.

• Gather evidence: copies of your lease, utility bills, final meter readings, proof of payments
• Submit Form 6 to IRAC, outlining the nature of the dispute and attaching evidence
• Both sides present their case in a hearing. IRAC issues a binding decision

If deductions are made from your deposit for unpaid utility bills, you can dispute this with IRAC. For practical steps on moving out and deposit returns, read How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

Learn more about your rights in PEI on Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island.

Ready to find your next rental? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme and simplify your search.

FAQ: Final Utility and Rent Payment When Moving Out in PEI

1. Do I have to pay utilities after I move out if my name is on the account?
   Yes, you are responsible for utility use up to the date you move out or your tenancy ends. Be sure to request a final meter reading and inform the utility provider so no additional charges accrue.
2. Can a landlord use my deposit to pay my last month's rent or utility bills?
   Your deposit cannot be automatically used for these purposes. It is meant to cover unpaid rent or damage, and any deductions must comply with the Rental of Residential Property Act.
3. What should I do if there's a dispute over my final bill or rent?
   Document all communications, payments, and obtain final account statements. If you disagree with charges or deductions, file Form 6 with IRAC to resolve the issue.
4. How do I end my utilities in PEI when moving out?
   Contact the utility provider at least two weeks before your moving date to schedule a final meter reading and close or transfer the account.

Key Takeaways

• Always settle rent and utility accounts based on your lease and tenancy law
• Document everything and use official forms for notices and disputes
• Contact IRAC for help if disagreements arise over payments or deductions

By following these steps, you protect your rights and ensure your move-out is handled fairly.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission (IRAC) – Rental Office: For disputes, forms, and tenancy advice
• PEI Provincial Government – Rental Accommodations in PEI
• PEI Tenants’ Rights Information (PEI Tenant Support Centre)

---

1. Rental of Residential Property Act (PEI)
2. Island Regulatory and Appeals Commission (IRAC)
3. Tenant Notice to End Tenancy (Form 1)
4. Application by Tenant or Owner (Form 6)

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