Can my landlord shut off my utilities if I haven't paid rent?

No. Alabama law prohibits landlords from disconnecting essential services to force eviction or as a penalty for unpaid rent.

What should I do if I receive a utility shutoff notice in Alabama?

Contact your utility provider right away to discuss payment options. If there's a medical emergency, submit a medical certificate form immediately.

Are there utility shutoff protections during extreme weather in Alabama?

Some utilities may delay disconnection during extreme weather, but Alabama does not have a statewide shutoff protection law for all cases.

Who do I contact for a utility complaint in Alabama?

For utility company issues, contact the Alabama Public Service Commission. For landlord-related shutoffs, contact your local district court.

What law protects Alabama tenants if utilities are disconnected?

The Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act provides essential protections for renters regarding utility shutoffs.

Alabama Tenant Rights: Utility Shutoff Protections Explained

Utilities, Services & Billing Alabama published June 21, 2025

If you're renting in Alabama and worried about your electricity, water, or gas being shut off, it's crucial to understand your rights and what steps you can take. Utility shutoffs are stressful, but some protections exist for tenants—especially during certain circumstances. This guide breaks down your rights, major laws, official forms, and where to get help in Alabama regarding utility shutoff issues.

What Are Utility Shutoff Protections for Alabama Renters?

In Alabama, most utility shutoff protections for renters are regulated by both state and local rules, as well as by the utilities themselves. There are also specific protections during extreme weather and for special cases like medical emergencies. However, compared to some other states, Alabama’s laws on this topic are relatively limited.

The Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act governs basic tenant-landlord responsibilities, including essential services.^[1]
Utilities may not be shut off by a landlord to force a tenant to leave or to punish a tenant.
Some local utilities and state agencies provide short-term shutoff protections for qualifying renters.

Is the Landlord Responsible for Utility Shutoff?

If your utilities are included in your rent and your landlord fails to pay the utility provider, it is illegal for the landlord to purposely interrupt your essential utility services to make you move out. Under the Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, landlords must keep essential services—such as electricity, heat, water, and gas—available if your lease requires it.

Utility Company Shutoffs: What Are Your Rights?

Utilities that are in your own name (you pay the bill directly) can be disconnected for non-payment. However, regulations set by the Alabama Public Service Commission (PSC) require regulated utility providers to:

Give proper notice before disconnecting services
Allow you to dispute charges or request a payment plan
Delay shutoff for health or extreme weather emergencies (in some circumstances)

For more details, visit the Alabama PSC Consumer Guide.

Notice Requirements Before Utility Shutoff

Most regulated utility providers must give you at least 5 days’ written notice before shutting off electric, gas, or water service for non-payment. The notice must explain why the service will be terminated and how to prevent it.

Exceptions: Extreme Weather and Medical Emergencies

Some protections exist for medical emergencies or during extreme weather. If you or someone in your home is seriously ill, you can submit medical documentation to the utility provider to delay disconnection for up to 30 days. Always contact your utility directly for specific instructions.

If you’re facing a medical or life-threatening situation, request a Medical Certificate Form from your utility provider. Submitting this promptly can temporarily prevent a disconnection.

If Your Utilities Are Illegally Disconnected

If your landlord unlawfully disconnects utilities or allows them to be shut off to force you out, you have legal recourse under Alabama law.

You may give written notice to your landlord demanding restoration of services
If not restored promptly, you may terminate your lease or sue for damages in court

See the Alabama Code Title 35, Chapter 9A, Section 204 for details on illegal utility shutoff by landlords.

Official Forms for Alabama Renters

Medical Certification Form (Utility-specific):
When used: If someone in your household is seriously ill and you have received a shutoff notice, request this form from your utility company (for example, Alabama Power or your local gas provider). Fill it out with your doctor and submit it promptly to delay disconnection.
Find the Alabama Power Medical Certificate process here.
Complaint Form – Alabama Public Service Commission:
When used: If you believe your utilities were disconnected in violation of PSC regulations, or your rights as a customer are being ignored, file a formal complaint.
Submit a complaint to the PSC here.

Where to File a Complaint or Seek Help

The Alabama Public Service Commission regulates most electric, gas, and water utilities statewide. For landlord-tenant disputes (like illegal utility shutoff), your local district or small claims court will usually handle cases. You can find more information at the Alabama Judicial System website.

Relevant Alabama Legislation on Tenant Utility Rights

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my landlord shut off my utilities if I haven't paid rent?
No. Under Alabama law, a landlord is not allowed to disconnect essential services to force you to move out or as a punishment for unpaid rent.
What should I do if I get a utility shutoff notice?
Contact your utility provider immediately to ask about payment plans or assistance. If you have a medical emergency, request and submit a medical certification form right away.
Are there protections during extreme weather in Alabama?
Some utility companies may voluntarily delay disconnections during declared emergencies or extreme heat/cold events, but there is no statewide shutoff moratorium law covering all utilities.
Who handles tenant utility complaints in Alabama?
For utility company issues, contact the Alabama Public Service Commission. For landlord-tenant disputes, contact your local district court.
What is the main law that protects renters regarding utilities?
The Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act sets out landlord and tenant rights concerning essential services.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

Landlords cannot legally disconnect utilities to force you out or as a form of retaliation.
If your utilities are at risk because of nonpayment, contact your provider promptly about payment plans or medical exemptions.
Alabama's main protections are found in the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act and through Public Service Commission regulations.

If your utilities are disconnected illegally, you have the right to seek help through official channels. Know your options and act quickly to protect your home.