Utilities & Services for Tenants: Prince Edward Island Guide

Understanding who is responsible for paying for utilities and services is an essential part of renting in Prince Edward Island. This guide outlines what tenants in PEI should know about utilities, how responsibilities are decided, how to handle disputes, and where to get help. Knowing your responsibilities and rights helps prevent misunderstandings about bills or service interruptions, and ensures your home is safe and comfortable.

What Are Utilities & Services in PEI Rentals?

Utilities and services typically include:

• Heat (oil, electric, or other sources)
• Electricity
• Water and sewer
• Hot water
• Garbage collection
• Cable, internet, and phone (if offered)

In Prince Edward Island, your lease or rental agreement should specify which utilities are included in your rent, and which ones you must pay for separately. Always ask for clarity before signing any agreement to avoid unexpected costs. For a broader overview of what to know after signing your lease, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Who Pays for Utilities? Tenant or Landlord Responsibilities

Payment responsibility for utilities is determined by:

• The written rental agreement (lease): This legal contract should clearly state who pays for each utility or service.
• Oral agreements: If there’s no written lease, the default responsibilities are those set by PEI’s rental laws.

Common scenarios include:

• Utilities Included: Rent covers some or all utilities (e.g. heat and water included, tenant pays electricity).
• Utilities Extra: Tenant arranges and pays for their own accounts with providers.

Legal Protections for Tenants

Under the Rental of Residential Property Act (PEI), a landlord cannot reduce or cut off essential services (like heat or water) even if there’s a dispute about payment. If your landlord attempts to disconnect services, contact the Residential Rental Office (PEI) immediately.^[1]

Setting Up and Changing Utility Accounts

Tenants may need to contact utility providers directly to open or close accounts:

• Maritime Electric for electricity
• Oil or propane companies for heating (if required)
• Municipal water or sewer providers

Before moving in or out, check what’s required to start, transfer, or stop services in your name.

Initial Rental Inspection & Utility Issues

Performing a rental property inspection helps identify problems with heating, power, or water supply before you move in. Learn more in Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

Utility Interruptions, Maintenance, and Repairs

Landlords are responsible for maintaining essential services provided under the rental agreement. If there’s a problem (for example, the heat isn’t working or water supply is interrupted), report it promptly to your landlord in writing.

If your landlord fails to restore essential services, you can apply to the Residential Rental Office with a complaint. The office may order the landlord to make repairs or restore utilities. Learn more about handling these and other problems in Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Health and Safety Considerations

Reliable access to heating, potable water, and electricity is not only a comfort issue but a safety standard required by law. If you have concerns about the safety or habitability of your unit due to utility issues, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for your rights and steps to report unsafe conditions.

Key Forms for PEI Tenants

You may need to use official forms if there’s a disagreement about services, bills, or repairs:

• Application to Director (Form 2)
  When to use: If you need a ruling on utility responsibilities, service interruptions, or landlord failures to restore essential services, use this form to apply to the Residential Rental Office.
  Application to Director (Form 2) - Official PEI Government
• Notice of Termination (Form 4)
  When to use: If a landlord or tenant needs to end a tenancy due to a serious breach related to services or repairs (after proper notice and as allowed by law), this form documents termination.
  Notice of Termination (Form 4) - Official PEI Government

These official forms help formalize disputes and are your avenue for resolution if negotiations break down.

Resolving Disputes About Utilities and Services

If you cannot resolve an issue with your landlord, you may:

• Write a clear statement of your concerns to your landlord
• Use the Application to Director (Form 2) to seek a government decision
• Contact local tenant advocacy services or the Residential Rental Office

Try to keep records of all communications and bills for your protection.

Looking for a New Home?

If you’re searching for a rental that includes specific utilities or want to compare options, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings with detailed utility information.

More About Tenant Rights in PEI

For a detailed overview of your legal protections, responsibilities, and support resources, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island.

1. Do tenants have to pay for utilities if it’s not clear in the lease?
   If your written lease is unclear or silent on a specific utility, responsibility may default under the Rental of Residential Property Act. If there’s confusion, contact your landlord in writing and consider applying to the Residential Rental Office for clarification.
2. Can my landlord turn off the heat or water if there’s a dispute?
   No. Landlords cannot legally disconnect heat, water, or other essential services while you are living in the unit, even during a dispute or if rent is owed. Contact the Residential Rental Office if this occurs.
3. What if a utility bill is in the landlord’s name but I’m asked to pay?
   If you’re paying for a service that is in the landlord’s name, ensure the expectation is outlined in your lease. If not, you may dispute it—keep written records and contact the Residential Rental Office if needed.
4. Am I responsible for repairs to utility systems (like the furnace or water heater)?
   Generally, landlords are responsible for repairs to utility systems unless the damage was caused by the tenant. Promptly report all issues to your landlord in writing.
5. Who do I contact about unsafe living conditions due to utility problems?
   Report unsafe conditions (lack of heat, water, etc.) to your landlord first. If not resolved quickly, contact the Residential Rental Office or your local health authority.

1. How do I file a complaint about utility interruptions?
   Prepare documentation of the issue and communications with your landlord. Complete Application to Director (Form 2) and submit to the Residential Rental Office. The form and instructions are available on the PEI government website.
2. How do I set up my own electricity account?
   Contact Maritime Electric after your lease is signed, provide your move-in date, and give your address and contact information. They will guide you through the setup process and explain any deposits required.
3. How do I prove to the tribunal that my landlord failed to provide services?
   Keep all written requests, photos, and bills that show the disruption. Submit these with your Application to Director (Form 2).

Key Takeaways

• Always clarify utility responsibilities in your lease before signing.
• Keep written records and use official forms for disputes.
• Essential services cannot be cut off by the landlord.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• PEI Residential Rental Office – guidance, complaint forms, and dispute resolution
• PEI Housing and Emergency Shelters – support if utility or housing issues affect your living situation
• Local tenant advocacy groups and legal clinics for confidential advice
• For more about your legal protections, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Prince Edward Island

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1. Rental of Residential Property Act (Prince Edward Island)
2. Residential Rental Office – Government of PEI
3. PEI Application to Director (Form 2)

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