Utilities and Services Guide for New Yukon Tenants

Moving into a rental home in Yukon comes with questions, especially about utilities and services. Knowing who pays for water, heat, electricity, and internet—and how to set them up—helps ensure a smooth start as a tenant. This guide explains what new tenants in Yukon need to know about utilities and services, from your rights and responsibilities to practical tips for managing accounts and bills.

What Are Utilities & Services?

“Utilities” usually refers to essential services such as electricity, water, heat, and sometimes garbage collection. “Services” may include internet, cable, or phone. Whether you or your landlord pays for these often depends on your rental agreement, so always check your lease thoroughly before moving in.

Who Is Responsible for Utilities in Yukon Rentals?

In Yukon, your tenancy agreement (lease) should clearly spell out who is responsible for setting up and paying for each utility or service. Common arrangements may include:

• Included in rent: Some or all utilities are included; you pay the landlord.
• Separate accounts: You are responsible for setting up and paying accounts with local utility providers.

When in doubt, ask your landlord and get all agreements in writing.

Key Utilities in Yukon Rentals

• Electricity: Most rental homes are powered by Yukon Energy and ATCO Electric Yukon (Yukon Utilities Board).
• Water & Sewer: Provided by the municipality (e.g., City of Whitehorse). Responsibility for bills depends on your rental contract.
• Heating: Can be electric, oil, or propane. Confirm what is used and who maintains tanks and supplies.
• Garbage & Recycling: Usually municipal—some rentals include this; with others, tenants handle directly.
• Internet & Phone: Usually set up and paid by the tenant. Providers include Northwestel and other regional options.

Double-check your rental agreement to confirm exactly who handles each of these.

Setting Up Utilities: Step-by-Step

To avoid unexpected interruptions, arrange for service connections before you move in. Here's a general process:

• Read your lease: Confirm which utilities/services you must establish.
• Contact providers early: Allow a few business days for power, water, heat, or internet setup. Some may require a deposit or previous address details.
• Keep account info: Save your account numbers and payment confirmations.
• Document meter readings: Take photos on move-in day to avoid billing disputes later.

Before you sign the lease, make sure to clarify responsibilities. After signing, it's essential to handle utility setup promptly. For more actionable steps, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Rental Deposits Related to Utilities

Some utility providers or landlords might ask for deposits, especially if you are a new customer or have limited credit history. These deposits are separate from your rental security deposit. Learn about common deposit rules in Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Your Rights and Responsibilities

Tenant and landlord obligations regarding utility payments are set out in Yukon’s Residential Landlord and Tenant Act^[1]. Key points:

• All utility arrangements must be clear in writing.
• Landlords must provide “essential services” (heat, power, water), unless the lease makes tenants responsible.
• Landlords cannot cut off any essential service, even if there’s a dispute over rent or bills. Only the provider can discontinue service for nonpayment.

For a more detailed look at obligations, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Dealing With Problems or Disputes

If you face utility shutoffs, unexpected charges, or unsafe service, you have the right to seek support through Yukon’s Residential Tenancies Office (official website). Write down every conversation and keep all documentation.

Relevant Yukon Forms for Utilities Disputes

• Application for Inspector’s Order (Form 3): Use this if your landlord isn’t providing essential services or utilities as required. Submit the form to the Residential Tenancies Office.
  Example: If your landlord does not restore heat during winter, complete Form 3 to request an official order.
  Application for Inspector’s Order (Form 3)

Process: Complete the form and file it with the Residential Tenancies Office. Follow any additional instructions provided on the form or by the office.

Staying Safe and Healthy: Utility Issues

Consistent access to heat, water, and power is essential for your health and safety. If your unit lacks these, this may be a serious violation under Yukon’s laws. Learn more about safety and health issues in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Moving In: Utility Checklist for Yukon Tenants

• Take photos or notes of all utility meters on move-in day
• Collect all account setup paperwork
• Contact providers to confirm your name and correct address is on record
• Report any leaks, unsafe outlets, or major issues to your landlord right away

Following a checklist can help you avoid disputes and ensure you receive all services you’re entitled to.

Explore Rentals and Tenant Rights in Yukon

Looking for your next home or considering a move? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme and discover options in Yukon and beyond. For more details on laws, rent rules, and tenant protections, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon.

1. What utilities am I usually responsible for as a tenant in Yukon?
   Most tenants pay for electricity, heat, and sometimes water or internet, depending on the rental agreement.
2. Can a landlord shut off my utilities in Yukon if I’m behind on rent?
   No, landlords cannot cut off essential services. Only the utility company may disconnect services after proper notice.
3. What should I do if there is a utility problem or unsafe condition in my rental?
   Inform your landlord immediately. If not resolved, contact the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office or submit Form 3.
4. Are deposits for utilities different from a rental deposit?
   Yes, utility deposits go to the service provider, and rental deposits are separate. See your provider and lease for exact policies.
5. If my utilities are included in the rent, can the landlord increase the rent if utility costs rise?
   Any rent increase must follow Yukon’s rules. Utilities already included in your rent are generally not separated out later; always check the lease for details and visit the Residential Tenancies Office with concerns.

1. How do I set up electricity in my new Yukon rental?
   Contact Yukon Energy or ATCO Electric Yukon as soon as your move-in date is confirmed. Provide your ID, address, and pay any required deposit. Arrange to have service in your name before the possession date.
2. How do I report a landlord failing to provide essential services?
   Complete the Application for Inspector’s Order (Form 3) and file it with the Residential Tenancies Office. Include all supporting documentation and details about the service interruption.
3. How to get utility meter readings when moving in?
   Take clear photos of all meter displays on move-in day. Record the reading and time so you can dispute any incorrect bills.
4. How to know exactly what utilities are included?
   Ask the landlord and get every agreement in writing as part of the signed lease. If unsure, review the Yukon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act or contact the Tenancies Office for clarification.

Key Takeaways for Yukon Tenants

• Read your lease closely to understand which utilities and services you must set up and pay for.
• Know your rights—landlords cannot cut off essential utilities and must state all responsibilities in writing.
• If you have problems, contact the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office and use official forms for help.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Yukon Residential Tenancies Office: Tenant support, forms, legislation, and dispute resolution
• Yukon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: Full legislation text
• Yukon Tenancy Forms: Applications for inspector’s orders and more

---

1. See Yukon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act [RSY 2002, c.76]
2. Yukon Residential Tenancies Office, forms and guidance: https://yukon.ca/en/find-out-about-residential-tenancies
3. Yukon Utilities Board: https://yukonutilitiesboard.yk.ca/

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