Connecticut Utility Setup Guide for New Renters

Moving into a new apartment in Connecticut is exciting, but getting your utilities set up can feel overwhelming. Knowing your rights, responsibilities, and legal requirements as a renter helps ensure your water, electricity, gas, and other essential services start smoothly—so you can settle in stress-free.

Understanding Utilities in Connecticut Rentals

In Connecticut, utilities like electricity, water, natural gas, and heating fuel may be included in your rent or billed separately. The rental agreement should clearly state which utilities you are responsible for. By law, a landlord must disclose this information before your tenancy begins.^[1] Common utilities to set up when moving in include:

• Electricity (Eversource, United Illuminating)
• Natural Gas (Connecticut Natural Gas, Southern Connecticut Gas)
• Water and Sewer (local company or municipality)
• Trash and Recycling (often included, but can vary by town)
• Heating Oil or Propane (if not included)
• Internet, Cable, and Phone (private providers)

You are typically responsible for setting up any utility accounts not provided by your landlord. If in doubt, always review your rental agreement and ask your landlord to clarify before you move in.

Utilities Setup Checklist for New Connecticut Renters

Make your move easier with this step-by-step checklist—so you won't be left in the dark.

• Review your lease: Confirm which utilities you must arrange and which are paid by your landlord.
• Get disclosures: Landlords must disclose if you are billed for water/sewer via submeter or ratio billing (see relevant law).
• Gather necessary information: Have your address, photo ID, Social Security Number, and lease agreement ready.
• Contact utility companies in advance: Set up accounts 7-10 days before your move-in date to ensure service starts on time. (Find details at Energize CT Utility Listings.)
• Request initial meter readings: For utilities billed by usage, ensure you and your landlord note the meter reading at move-in. Use this as a reference if billing issues arise.
• Check for required forms: Some utilities or rental units may require official consent or affidavits from the landlord if starting service in your name.

Practical Example: Water Disclosure in Connecticut

If your rental unit uses a submeter or is part of a "ratio utility billing" system, Connecticut law requires your landlord give you a written disclosure. This helps prevent surprises when you receive your first water bill. If you didn’t receive the disclosure, ask your landlord or contact the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection.

Relevant Forms for Connecticut Renters

• Rental Unit Water Billing Disclosure
  This is not a state-standard form, but landlords must disclose water submeter/ration billing in writing under Connecticut General Statutes § 47a-13.
  Renter Example: If you didn’t receive information on water billing and now have unexpected charges, request written disclosure from your landlord. If it's not provided, you may file a complaint with the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection.
• Standard Lease Agreement (Form 11-1)
  While not mandatory statewide, this official form from the Connecticut Judicial Branch is often used. It outlines all responsibilities regarding utilities. Always review this before signing.

No specific utility setup form is required by the state, but always keep records of account setups and disclosures in case of disputes.

Who Oversees Rental Utility Laws in Connecticut?

Rental disputes—including utilities, disclosures, and fairness of charges—are handled by the Connecticut Superior Court Housing Session. For general rental rights information, visit the Department of Consumer Protection or check Chapter 832 of the Connecticut General Statutes – Landlord and Tenant Law.^[2]

What If Utilities Are Not Working on Move-In Day?

• Confirm you completed your account setup and start date with each provider
• Contact your landlord if a utility is supposed to be included or isn’t working
• Document all communications
• If problems continue, consider contacting the Department of Consumer Protection

FAQ: Utilities Setup for Connecticut Renters

1. Which utilities are most often included with rental apartments in Connecticut?
   Many leases include water, trash, and sometimes heating. Electricity, internet, and gas are more frequently the renter’s responsibility. Always clarify this with your landlord.
2. How soon should I set up my utility accounts before moving in?
   Contact each utility company at least one week before your move to avoid gaps in service. Providers may require a deposit or verification of your lease.
3. What can I do if a landlord fails to disclose billing practices for water or sewer?
   Request the required written disclosure under state law. If not provided, document your request and consider filing a complaint with the Department of Consumer Protection.
4. Who do I contact about disputes over utility payment responsibilities?
   The Department of Consumer Protection or Housing Session of the Superior Court help resolve these disputes.
5. Is my landlord required to provide utilities?
   Landlords must provide utilities stated in your rental agreement and keep rental units safe and fit for habitation, including necessary heat and water. See § 47a-7 Landlord Duties.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection – Consumer hotline and complaint forms
• Connecticut Superior Court Housing Session – Handles rental disputes, including utilities and disclosures
• Connecticut Landlord and Tenant Statutes – Chapter 832
• Connecticut Fair Housing Center – Tenant education and assistance (non-government, but widely used)

---

1. Connecticut General Statutes, Landlord Water/Sewer Billing Disclosures (§47a-13).
2. Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection; Connecticut Superior Court Housing Session.

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations