What utilities are usually included in PEI rentals?

Most PEI rentals require tenants to pay for electricity, internet, and sometimes heat. Water and sewer are often covered by landlords, but always check your rental agreement.

Can my landlord enter to read meters or access utility areas?

Landlords must provide 24 hours' written notice to enter the rental unit unless there is an emergency.

What if my heat or hot water isn’t working after I move in?

You can request urgent repairs from your landlord right away. If not fixed, contact the PEI Residential Tenancy Office for assistance.

Who do I contact if there's a billing dispute?

If your landlord is billing you incorrectly for utilities, first raise the concern with them in writing. If it’s not resolved, submit Tenant’s Application (Form 6) to the Residential Tenancy Office.

Is there support for tenants with urgent service interruptions?

Yes. The PEI Residential Tenancy Office handles urgent applications for interrupted utilities or essential service failures.

Utilities & Services Checklist for PEI Tenants

Utilities & Services Prince Edward Island published July 01, 2025

Starting a new tenancy in Prince Edward Island? Ensuring your utilities and essential services are set up, transferred, or properly maintained is a crucial step for a comfortable rental experience. This checklist will walk you through everything PEI tenants need to know about utilities and services, your responsibilities versus your landlord's, and where to find the official forms and resources to support your rights as a renter.

Who Is Responsible for Utilities in PEI Rentals?

In Prince Edward Island, the responsibility for utilities (such as electricity, heat, water, and internet) depends on what is stated in your lease agreement. Always:

Check your rental agreement for details about who pays which utility.
If anything is unclear, ask the landlord for clarification before you move in.
Keep records of any agreements or changes in writing.

For a full breakdown of your legal obligations and rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island.

Utilities & Services to Address Before Moving In

Before you move into your PEI unit, create a checklist to handle the following common utilities and services:

Electricity (Maritime Electric): Set up a new account or transfer an existing one to your name if required.
Heating (oil, electric, or propane): Identify what type your unit uses. For oil or propane, arrange deliveries and billing with your provider.
Water & Sewer: Some municipalities bill tenants; others bill property owners. Always confirm who is responsible.
Cable & Internet: Choose a provider and schedule installation after confirming landlord approval for any equipment modifications.
Garbage & Recycling: Find out your collection schedule and local sorting rules via Island Waste Management Corporation.^[1]

Key Steps to Set Up Utilities

Gather your move-in date, government-issued ID, and proof of tenancy.
Contact utility providers at least 1–2 weeks before your move to ensure a smooth transition.
Take initial meter readings when you arrive to protect yourself from being charged for previous tenants' usage.

Important Legal Documents and Forms for Tenants

It’s essential to have the correct paperwork to avoid future disputes and support your rights.

Rental Agreement: Confirms responsibilities for payment and maintenance of utilities.
Condition Report (Form 2): Used for documenting property condition on move-in and move-out; can note utility-related issues (like broken heaters or leaks). It’s not mandatory, but highly recommended.

Download the official Condition Report (Form 2) from the PEI government. Complete it with your landlord right as you move in – for instance, if you notice the heat isn’t working, you’ll record this on Form 2 and request repairs.^[2]

Disputes Over Utility Responsibilities

If you face issues such as unexpected charges or disconnection disputes, contact the PEI Residential Tenancy Office for support, or submit a formal application using Tenant’s Application (Form 6). This form helps tenants resolve disagreements about utilities, repairs, or service interruptions.

When to Use: If your landlord fails to provide agreed-upon utilities, or you believe you’re being wrongly billed.
How to Use: Fill out Tenant’s Application (Form 6), attach any supporting evidence (emails, lease terms, meter readings), and submit it to the Residential Tenancy Office.^[3]

Tips for a Smooth Utility Setup

Ask your landlord for a utility information sheet before move-in.
Confirm if utilities are included in rent (sometimes noted in advertisements or the rental agreement).
Take photos of all meters and the thermostat settings when you first arrive.
Update your address with all providers and relevant government agencies.

Health and Safety: Essential Services and Inspections

Landlords in PEI must provide access to basic utilities like heat, hot water, and electricity under the Rental of Residential Property Act. If these aren’t working on move-in, you can request urgent repairs and should document the issue immediately.

For more on safe living conditions, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Recap: Your PEI Utilities Checklist

Review your rental agreement utility details
Contact providers and set up accounts in advance
Use the official condition report to document the state of essential equipment
Request written confirmation regarding any included utilities
Know how to contact the Residential Tenancy Office for help

For a convenient comparison of rental homes where utilities are included (and other features), Browse apartments for rent in Canada.

Common Utility-Related Problems

Issues can include unexpected utility bills, shutoffs, or disputes about who pays for repairs. If this happens:

First, contact your landlord in writing to outline your concern.
If unresolved, use the Tenant’s Application (Form 6) noted above.
Document any service interruptions, bills, and communication.

Moving in soon? Don’t forget your Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home for a stress-free experience.

What utilities are usually included in PEI rentals?
Most PEI rentals require tenants to pay for electricity, internet, and sometimes heat. Water and sewer are often covered by landlords, but always check your rental agreement.
Can my landlord enter to read meters or access utility areas?
Landlords must provide 24 hours' written notice to enter the rental unit unless there is an emergency.
What if my heat or hot water isn’t working after I move in?
You can request urgent repairs from your landlord right away. If not fixed, contact the PEI Residential Tenancy Office for assistance.
Who do I contact if there's a billing dispute?
If your landlord is billing you incorrectly for utilities, first raise the concern with them in writing. If it’s not resolved, submit Tenant’s Application (Form 6) to the Residential Tenancy Office.
Is there support for tenants with urgent service interruptions?
Yes. The PEI Residential Tenancy Office handles urgent applications for interrupted utilities or essential service failures.

How do I set up electricity in my name for a PEI rental?
Contact Maritime Electric (1-800-670-1012 or their website) with your ID, proof of address, and move-in date. They’ll walk you through account setup or transfer.
How can I document the condition of utilities when I move in?
Use the official Condition Report (Form 2) with your landlord, taking photos of heating units, appliances, and meter readings as evidence.
How do I file a dispute if there's a problem with utility billing?
Fill out Tenant’s Application (Form 6) and submit supporting documents to the PEI Residential Tenancy Office for investigation and mediation.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

PEI Residential Tenancy Office – Handles all tenancy and utility-related disputes
Official Legislation: Rental of Residential Property Act
More on your rights: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island
Garbage/recycling: Island Waste Management Corporation