Do I have to pay utilities if my lease says the landlord will pay?

No. If your lease clearly states the landlord pays, you generally aren't responsible for those utility bills.

Can my landlord shut off utilities to make me leave?

No. Alabama law prohibits landlords from shutting off essential utilities to force a tenant to move out.

What should I do if I get a utility bill for a service I didn’t agree to pay?

Immediately notify your landlord in writing, reference your lease, and contact the Attorney General if unresolved.

Who pays for repairs to utility systems (like plumbing or wiring)?

Landlords are generally responsible for main utility repairs unless damage is caused by renter negligence.

Are utility services required by law in all Alabama rentals?

Rental units must be habitable, with essential services as necessary, but the lease determines details on specific utilities.

Who Pays Utilities in Alabama Rentals? Tenant & Landlord Responsibilities

Utilities, Services & Billing Alabama published June 21, 2025

Understanding who pays for utilities in an Alabama rental is essential for renters and landlords to avoid surprise bills or disputes. Alabama’s rental laws set guidelines, but lease agreements usually spell out the specifics. This guide covers who is responsible for utility payments, what Alabama law requires, key tips for renters, and where to turn for help if there’s a problem with your utility bills.

Utility Payment Responsibility in Alabama Rentals

The responsibility for paying utilities such as electricity, water, gas, internet, and trash pickup in Alabama rental properties largely depends on what is written in your lease agreement. Unless your lease specifically says a utility is included in your rent, you as the renter will most likely be responsible for those costs.

Check your signed lease to see if utilities are listed as included or separately paid by the renter.
Landlords can choose to include some or all utilities in the rent, or require tenants to pay separately.
If there is no written lease, Alabama landlord-tenant law applies by default.

Typical Utility Arrangements

Included Utilities: Some leases state that rent covers certain utilities (like water or trash). Always confirm which are included.
Tenant-Paid Utilities: If the lease is silent or specifically says the renter pays, you’ll be responsible for setting up these utility accounts and paying bills on time.
Shared/Master Meter Utilities: In duplexes or multi-unit buildings, ask how utility costs are split and billed if there isn’t a separate meter.

Alabama law does not require landlords to provide any utilities except where there’s an agreement, but rental units must be “habitable”—that is, suitable for living—with working plumbing and essential services per the Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[1]

What Alabama Law Says About Utilities

The main law governing utility responsibility in Alabama rentals is the Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Title 35, Chapter 9A).^[2] This law covers topics including rental agreements, habitability, and payment obligations for tenants and landlords.

Landlords must keep rental units fit for occupation, with essential services—so turning off water or power to force a tenant to leave is not legal.
If a landlord is responsible for paying a utility but fails to pay, renters may have the right to withhold rent or terminate the lease after notice is given.
If you receive a utility shut-off notice but your lease says the landlord pays that bill, notify your landlord in writing immediately.

When a Landlord Can Charge for Utilities

A landlord can bill separately for utilities if agreed in your lease. If utilities are split or included, the lease should state the method used: a flat fee, submetering, or reimbursement for actual bills. Always request utility records if charges seem unclear or excessive.

Forms and Steps: Handling Utility Problems

If you have utility issues—like your landlord hasn’t paid a bill, or you’re billed for charges that aren’t in your lease—take the following steps:

Review your lease: Confirm what it says about each utility.
Notify your landlord in writing: Describe the issue, cite any missed utility payments, and keep a copy.
If the habitability of your rental is affected (e.g., no running water or electricity), you may use the Alabama Consumer Complaint Form to file a complaint with the Alabama Attorney General’s Office.

Alabama Consumer Complaint Form
Use this form if a utility-related problem violates your rights under the lease or state law. For example, if your landlord disconnects utilities illegally, fill out the form online or mail a copy to the Attorney General’s office. More information and the form are available on the official Alabama Consumer Complaint portal.^[3]

Tip: Document all communications with your landlord. Take photos of utility meters and keep copies of utility bills or disconnect notices for your records.

The Alabama Board or Tribunal for Rental Issues

There is no state-wide housing board or tribunal operating in Alabama for landlord-tenant disputes. Rental complaints (including those related to utilities) are handled by the local district court or through the Attorney General’s Office.

FAQ: Utility Payments in Alabama Rentals

Do I have to pay utilities if my lease says the landlord will pay?
No, if your lease clearly states that a utility is included in the rent and your landlord does not provide it, you may have legal rights to withhold rent or terminate the lease after proper notice. Always keep written proof.
Can my landlord shut off utilities to make me leave?
No. Alabama law prohibits landlords from shutting off essential services to force a renter out. If this happens, contact the Attorney General's Office and your local court.
What should I do if I get a utility bill for a service I didn’t agree to pay?
Notify your landlord in writing immediately. Reference your lease agreement and keep records. If unresolved, you may file a complaint with the Attorney General’s Office.
Who pays for repairs to utility systems (like plumbing or wiring)?
Landlords are usually responsible for repairs to main utility systems, unless damage was caused by renter negligence. Check your lease for details.
Are utility services required by law in all Alabama rentals?
Rentals must be habitable, but specific services depend on your lease. Water and power are generally considered essential, and must be provided if agreed or necessary for basic living.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Alabama Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Resources: State explanations of tenant and landlord rights.
Alabama Consumer Complaint Form: Report utility problems with your landlord.
Alabama State Bar – Find a Lawyer: Get connected to local legal help if your dispute needs court action.
Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: Official legislation text.