Delaware Utilities Setup Checklist for New Renters

Moving to a new rental in Delaware? One of your top priorities should be setting up essential utilities like electricity, water, gas, internet, and more. This checklist for new renters in Delaware helps ensure you meet state requirements, avoid service interruptions, and understand your rights.

Understanding Utility Responsibilities under Delaware Law

In Delaware, whether the landlord or tenant is responsible for utilities must be clearly stated in your lease agreement. The Delaware Residential Landlord-Tenant Code sets out these requirements^[1]. Always review your lease and ask your landlord to clarify in writing which utilities you need to set up in your name after move-in.

Essential Utilities to Arrange

Below is a checklist to help you stay organized and avoid last-minute surprises:

• Electricity: Most Delaware renters use Delmarva Power or municipal providers. Set up an account before moving in to avoid service gaps. Delmarva Power’s move-in guide has step-by-step instructions.
• Water & Sewer: In apartments, landlords often manage this; in single-family homes, you may need to contact your local city or county water department (e.g., New Castle County Water Services).
• Natural Gas: If your home uses gas, set up service with Delmarva Power or Chesapeake Utilities.
• Internet & Cable: Shop around for providers in your area. It’s best to schedule installation right before or on your move-in day.
• Trash & Recycling: Find out if your landlord arranges pickup. If not, check with your local public works department for set-up instructions.
• Heating Oil or Propane: If your new place uses oil or propane for heat or hot water, ask your landlord for the provider and account transfer instructions.

Legal Disclosures and Required Forms in Delaware

Delaware law requires landlords to make certain disclosures about utilities, especially if they remain in the landlord’s name but are billed to the tenant. These include the utility charges formula and, if applicable, copies of master meter bills.

• Required Disclosure Form: If utilities are not individually metered, landlords must provide a written statement explaining how charges are allocated (Section 5312).
• If you have a billing dispute, you may file a complaint with the consumer protection unit of the Delaware Department of Justice. Learn about the process here.

The Division of Consumer Protection Complaint Form is used by renters to report issues regarding improper disclosures or billing:

• Form Name: Consumer Complaint Intake Form
• When to Use: Use this form if you believe the landlord is not complying with required utility disclosures or is unfairly billing you.
• Official Complaint Form (PDF)

Submit the completed form by mail or online, following the instructions on the first page. The Consumer Protection Unit will review your claim.

How to Set Up Utilities: Step-by-Step

1. Review Your Lease Agreement

Read your lease to confirm which utilities are your responsibility. Landlords in Delaware must disclose this in writing.

2. Gather Required Information

• Address of your new rental
• Move-in date
• Photo ID and, sometimes, proof of tenancy
• Deposit or application fee (if required by the utility provider)

3. Contact Utility Providers in Advance

• Call or visit provider websites to schedule your start date
• Be prepared to show proof of residency if utility is in your name
• Arrange for service at least 7 days before move-in

4. Confirm Utility Disclosures

• Request written utility formulas if you’re sharing a master-metered service
• If you have concerns about accuracy, ask for past bills as allowed under Section 5312

What if There’s a Dispute or Missing Disclosure?

If your landlord does not provide legally required utility information or you suspect you’re being overcharged, file a complaint with the Delaware Department of Justice Consumer Protection Unit. The Justice of the Peace Court resolves more serious rental disputes and enforces Delaware’s landlord-tenant laws.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who pays for utilities in Delaware rental homes?
   Responsibility for utilities depends on your lease agreement. Delaware law requires the lease to specify which utilities the renter must pay for and which remain with the landlord.
2. How can I prove my landlord overcharged me for utilities?
   Request the utility bill breakdown and written disclosure from your landlord. If there’s a dispute, use the Consumer Complaint Intake Form with the Delaware Department of Justice and provide any billing statements you have.
3. What is a master meter, and why does it matter?
   A master meter measures total utility use for a building. If utilities are split among units, Delaware law requires landlords to explain the formula and provide bill copies upon request.
4. Where do I file a complaint about illegal utility charges?
   Submit a Consumer Complaint to the Delaware Department of Justice’s Consumer Protection Unit, and escalate to the Justice of the Peace Court if the problem isn’t resolved.
5. Can a landlord shut off my utilities for nonpayment of rent?
   No, Delaware law prohibits landlords from intentionally interrupting essential services, even if you are late on rent. This protection is outlined in Chapter 53 of the Delaware Code.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Check your lease carefully to confirm your utility obligations.
• Set up accounts or services 7+ days before move-in to avoid interruption.
• Request any required utility disclosures in writing from your landlord, especially with shared or master-metered services.
• Use official forms and contact government resources if you encounter issues.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Delaware

• Delaware Department of Justice – Consumer Protection Unit: For utility billing complaints, disclosures, and landlord-tenant issues (302-577-8600)
• Justice of the Peace Court – Landlord-Tenant Matters: Handles legal disputes and eviction cases, including utilities disputes
• Delaware Residential Landlord-Tenant Code: Official legislation about rental and utility rights
• Consumer Complaint Intake Form (PDF): File with the Department of Justice if you suspect illegal or improper utility billing

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1. Delaware Residential Landlord-Tenant Code, Title 25, Chapter 53, Official State Statute
2. Delaware Justice of the Peace Court – Landlord-Tenant, Tribunal Information
3. Delaware Division of Consumer Protection Complaint Intake Form, Official Form
4. Delmarva Power Moving Guide, Utility Resource

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