DC Utilities Setup Checklist for New Renters

Moving into a new rental home in the District of Columbia means ensuring you have a safe, comfortable living space, which includes utility services like water, electricity, and gas. Knowing your rights and responsibilities about setting up utilities—and understanding what your landlord must disclose—can help you avoid unexpected bills or service interruptions in your new DC rental.

Understanding Utilities and Disclosures in the District of Columbia

In Washington, DC, both tenants and landlords have specific roles regarding utility setup. Utility services cover essential items such as electricity, water, gas, and sometimes trash collection or internet. District law requires landlords to clearly state which utilities are included in your rent and which you, as the renter, are responsible for setting up and paying.

Key Utility Setup Steps for DC Renters

• Review Your Lease Agreement: Look for a section listing which utilities are provided by the landlord and which are your responsibility. Under DC law, this disclosure is mandatory, so check for a separate utilities disclosure.
• Ask for the Required Utility Disclosure Form: DC landlords must provide you with a Utilities Disclosure Form stating the average monthly cost of each utility not covered by your rent. Learn more and download the form directly from the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) rent control forms page.
• Set Up Utility Accounts: Once you know your responsibilities, contact utility providers to start service in your name before moving in. The main providers are:
  • DC Water – for water and sewer
  • Pepco – for electricity
  • Washington Gas – for natural gas
• Request a Move-In Inspection: DC doesn’t require a special utilities inspection, but scheduling a general move-in inspection with your landlord helps record the property's condition and ensures all utility fixtures (lights, plumbing, heating) work properly. Document the meter readings for each utility at move-in.

What Your Landlord Must Disclose

• Utilities Disclosure Form: Landlords are required by DC Code § 42–3502.15(b) to provide the Utilities Disclosure Form at the signing of the lease or renewal. This ensures transparency in utility costs. See the relevant DC Code provision.
• Submetering Information: If the building uses submeters, landlords must explain the process and billing method.
• Access to Official Forms: Download the Utilities Disclosure Form (English PDF) directly from DC DHCD.

Official Forms for DC Renters

• Utilities Disclosure Form: No form number, official name "Utilities Disclosure Form". This form details which utilities are included in the rent and the average monthly cost if they're not. Example: If your landlord tells you electricity isn't included, you should receive this form showing average electric costs for your unit. Get the form and instructions from DHCD.

Key Tips for Renters Setting Up Utilities

What to Do If There’s a Utility Dispute

If the landlord fails to provide disclosures or you disagree over a utility bill, you can file a complaint with the District of Columbia Rental Accommodations Division (RAD) or seek dispute resolution through the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH). Relevant legislation is found in the DC Residential Rental Housing Act.¹

FAQ: District of Columbia Utilities Setup for Renters

1. Do I have to set up utilities before moving into my DC rental?
   Yes, if your lease states that utilities are your responsibility, you need to set up accounts with service providers before moving in to avoid interruptions.
2. What if my landlord does not give me the Utilities Disclosure Form?
   You can request it directly, and if still not provided, file a complaint with the Rental Accommodations Division (RAD).
3. Can the landlord charge administration fees for utility setup?
   Generally, landlords can only charge for the actual cost of utilities unless otherwise specified in the lease; extra fees may not be enforceable under DC tenant law.
4. What should I do if I receive a utility bill for charges before my move-in date?
   Contact your landlord and utility provider immediately to dispute the charges and clarify your service start date.
5. Where do I file a utilities complaint if I cannot resolve it with my landlord?
   You can file with the Rental Accommodations Division (RAD) or the DC Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH).

Key Takeaways for DC Renters Setting Up Utilities

• Always review your lease for utility responsibilities and require the Utilities Disclosure Form at signing.
• Set up your accounts with official DC utility providers before moving in.
• If problems occur, contact RAD or OAH for help, referencing the DC Residential Rental Housing Act.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• District of Columbia Rental Accommodations Division (RAD) – Main government body for rental housing issues
• DHCD Rent Control Program – Access to all rental housing forms
• DC Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH) – Tribunal for rental and utility disputes
• Office of the Tenant Advocate (OTA) – Free support and renter advocacy
• Read the DC Residential Rental Housing Act

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1. DC Code § 42–3502.15 (Utilities Disclosure), part of the DC Residential Rental Housing Act
2. DC Rental Accommodations Division (RAD)
3. DC Rent Control Forms (includes Utilities Disclosure Form)
4. Office of the Tenant Advocate (OTA)
5. DC Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH)

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