Starting a new tenancy in Prince Edward Island? Utilities and services like heat, water, electricity, and internet are essential parts of everyday living in a rental home. Understanding what’s included, your responsibilities, and how to set up or transfer these services can help you enjoy a smooth, stress-free move-in experience.
What Are Utilities & Services in PEI Rentals?
In Prince Edward Island, "utilities and services" usually refer to essentials such as:
- Electricity
- Heating (oil, electric, or propane)
- Water and sewer
- Hot water tank rentals
- Internet, cable television, and phone
- Garbage collection
Your rental agreement should clearly state which of these are included in the rent and which are the tenant’s responsibility to arrange and pay.
Who Pays for What? Understanding Utility Responsibilities
Utility responsibilities can vary from one rental property to another. Some apartments include all or some utilities in the rent, while others require tenants to set up accounts and pay directly. Always check your lease or rental agreement for details. If an agreement says nothing about a certain utility, the tenant is usually responsible for arranging and paying for it under PEI law.
- Heat: Often included in apartments, but not always in single homes.
- Electricity: Frequently paid by the tenant, especially in houses or basement suites.
- Internet and cable: Usually arranged by the tenant unless otherwise specified.
It’s vital to clarify these details before you sign your lease. What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement offers more insights on steps to take post-signing.
Setting Up and Transferring Utility Accounts
If you are responsible for utilities in your new PEI rental:
- Contact relevant utility companies (e.g., Maritime Electric, Summerside Electric, local oil/propane providers) to set up accounts in your name.
- Schedule start dates to coincide with your move-in day, so services are uninterrupted.
- Take note of meter readings on move-in to avoid being charged for previous usage.
Some utility companies require a deposit or credit check for new accounts. Confirm with each provider.
Repairs, Service Interruptions, and Tenant Rights
Landlords must ensure that included utilities and essential services (such as heating and water) are maintained in good working order. If your rental loses a vital utility (like heat in winter), report it in writing to your landlord immediately. The PEI Residential Tenancy Office can help if the issue isn’t resolved promptly.1
Landlords must not deliberately cut off utilities as leverage during disputes; this is prohibited under the Rental of Residential Property Act (PEI).2
Common Forms: Utility-Related Tenant Requests
Notice of Maintenance/Repair Request (Form 5): Use this form to request urgent or routine repairs for landlord-supplied utilities (e.g., broken heater, no hot water).
Download Form 5 (Request for Repair). Example: Your apartment’s heat goes out in winter, and the landlord hasn’t responded to your call; submit Form 5 in writing and keep a copy.3
Application to the Director of Residential Tenancies (Form 2): If utility issues persist, use this form to formally ask for orders that your landlord restore or maintain the affected service.
Download Form 2 (Application). Example: Landlord fails to fix broken water heater for several days despite written requests.
Submit forms through the PEI Residential Tenancy Office for resolution.1
Moving In: Utilities Checklist for PEI Tenants
- Review your lease for utility/service clauses
- Set up utility accounts in your own name (if required)
- Photograph meter readings on the first day
- Keep documentation of all arrangements
For more moving-in tips, read Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home.
Staying Informed: Legislation and Your Rights
The Rental of Residential Property Act (PEI) outlines landlord and tenant utility responsibilities. Always refer to your signed agreement and consult this Act when disputes arise. For a broader overview of laws, rights, and responsibilities, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island.
Want to see more rental options anywhere in Canada? Browse apartments for rent in Canada on Houseme.ca and find your next home with ease.
- Do landlords in PEI have to include utilities?
Not always. Only if your lease says utilities are included is the landlord responsible; otherwise, tenants may pay some or all utilities. - What happens if my landlord shuts off my utilities?
This is not allowed under PEI law. Contact the Residential Tenancy Office if this occurs. - Can a landlord raise rent because of higher utility costs?
No, not outside of legal rent increase procedures. Utility cost increases alone don’t permit immediate rent hikes. - How can I request repairs if my utilities stop working?
Send a written repair request to your landlord (Form 5), and escalate to the PEI Tenancy Office if it's not addressed. - Do I need to pay a separate deposit for electricity or heat accounts?
Yes, utility providers may require a deposit, and it’s separate from any rental deposit to your landlord.
- How do I set up electricity service when moving in?
1. Contact Maritime Electric or local provider to start service in your name.
2. Provide your move-in date, identification, and pay any required deposit.
3. Take a meter reading, and confirm your account is active on move-in day. - How do I change utility accounts if a roommate moves out?
Inform the provider in advance, and provide updated names and identification for the new responsible tenant. - How can I formally complain about loss of utilities?
Submit a Form 5 repair request first. If not resolved, fill out Form 2 to the Residential Tenancy Office.
Key Takeaways for PEI Tenants
- Carefully review your lease to confirm which utilities and services are included
- Set up your own utility accounts if responsible and always record meter readings on move-in
- Use official forms if you need repairs or if utilities are interrupted
- Stay informed about your rights using the PEI tenancy laws
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- PEI Residential Tenancy Office—Questions, dispute resolution, and forms
- PEI Energy, Electricity and Utilities Information
- Legal and consumer help: Community Legal Information PEI
