What should I do if my utilities are disconnected while disputing a bill in Indiana?

Immediately contact the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission and inform them of your ongoing dispute. Disconnection often requires prior notification and adherence to strict procedures.

Can my landlord evict me if I file a utility bill complaint in Indiana?

Indiana law prohibits landlords from retaliating against tenants for exercising their legal rights, including challenging utility bills. Document all interactions and seek legal aid if threatened.

Which form do I use to file a utility bill dispute in Indiana?

Use the Indiana Utility Consumer Complaint Form, available via the Office of Utility Consumer Counselor, when informal resolution attempts don’t solve the issue.

How long does a utility bill complaint investigation take in Indiana?

Investigations vary from a few weeks to several months, depending on the case, but you'll receive status updates from the agency.

Is there legal help available for Indiana renters with billing disputes?

Yes, Indiana Legal Services and Indiana 211 offer free or low-cost assistance to renters facing utility bill problems.

Indiana Renter Guide: Contesting High Utility Bills

Utilities, Services & Billing Indiana published June 21, 2025

Receiving an unexpectedly high utility bill in Indiana can be overwhelming, especially if you're a renter unsure of your rights and next steps. It's important to understand what you can do to challenge a bill that seems unfair or incorrect. This guide walks you through the process, the forms involved, which agencies support you, and your rights under Indiana law.

Understanding Utility Billing for Indiana Renters

As a renter in Indiana, your lease agreement should clarify if you are responsible for utilities or if your landlord handles the billing. In some cases, landlords bill tenants directly, while in others, tenants pay utility providers themselves. Regardless of the arrangement, you have the right to dispute charges you believe are inaccurate or excessive.

Common Reasons for Overinflated Utility Bills

Clerical or meter-reading errors
Hidden leaks or maintenance issues
Incorrect rate applications
Unauthorized shared meter usage
Landlord billing for utility usage beyond lease terms

If you suspect your bill is incorrect, gather your lease, recent bills, and any communications between you, your landlord, and the utility provider before taking the next steps.

How to Challenge a Utility Bill in Indiana

Contact your landlord or property manager first if they provide utilities or bill you directly. Politely request an explanation and related documentation.
If you pay the utility company directly, contact your utility provider's customer service, explain your concerns, and request a formal meter check or bill review.
Check your utility meter yourself (if accessible) and compare the readings with your most recent bill.
Document everything, including dates of conversations, who you spoke to, and responses received.

Filing a Formal Complaint: Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC)

If you cannot resolve the issue with your landlord or utility provider, you can file a formal complaint with the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC). This state agency oversees utility disputes, including billing concerns between renters, landlords, and utility companies.

Form Name: Utility Consumer Complaint Form
How and When to Use: Submit this form to the Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor (OUCC) when you have unsuccessfully tried to resolve a utility bill dispute with your provider or landlord. For example, if your electricity bill triples in one month with no explanation and both your landlord and utility company are unhelpful, fill out and submit this form for independent review.
Download the Utility Consumer Complaint Form (PDF)

Once the complaint is filed, the OUCC will launch an investigation, contacting all parties and requesting supporting documentation. While the agency cannot award monetary damages, it can direct corrections and mediate a fair outcome. The full process and timeline are explained on the OUCC Utility Complaint Assistance page.

Tip: Keep copies of all submitted forms and written communication. If your landlord threatens eviction for challenging a bill, seek help from Indiana Legal Services or call 211 for free renter advice.

Relevant Indiana Tenancy Legislation

Your rights to fair billing and utility access are protected under the Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31, Chapter 8: Tenant Obligations and Landlord Remedies and related sections of the Indiana landlord-tenant laws. These laws require landlords to comply with housing codes regarding essential services and utility management.^[1]

What Happens After You File a Complaint?

After you submit the Utility Consumer Complaint Form, the IURC (through the OUCC) will acknowledge your case and investigate. They usually contact your provider or landlord for a formal response. You’ll be kept informed throughout the review process.

If the outcome is not favorable, you may take additional steps, such as seeking mediation, small claims court, or reaching out for legal aid.

FAQ: Challenging Utility Bills in Indiana

What if my utility is shut off while I’m disputing a bill?
Utility providers must follow strict rules before disconnecting your service. Contact the IURC immediately and inform them of your pending dispute.
Can my landlord evict me for challenging a utility bill?
Retaliation for asserting your rights is prohibited under Indiana law. Document all communications and seek legal help if you receive an eviction threat.
Does the IURC handle disputes for all types of utilities?
The IURC reviews most regulated utilities, but some municipal, cooperative, or private utility disputes may fall outside their jurisdiction. Check directly with your provider.
What documentation do I need to provide?
Provide copies of your lease, bills in question, written communications, and photos (if applicable) of meters or relevant property features.
How long does the complaint process usually take?
Investigations can take a few weeks to several months depending on complexity, but you'll receive updates throughout the process.

Key Takeaways for Indiana Renters

Understand what your lease says about utilities, and always review your bills for errors.
Work first with your landlord or provider, then escalate by filing the official Utility Consumer Complaint Form if unresolved.
Document all steps and seek assistance from Indiana support agencies if you need guidance or legal help.

Challenging an overinflated utility bill can be stressful, but following these steps protects your rights and can lead to a fair outcome.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor (OUCC): For complaint forms and consumer guidance
Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC): State utility regulator and dispute mediator
Indiana Legal Services: Free or low-cost legal help for renters statewide
Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority: Housing resources, renter protections, and utility assistance programs
Call 211 or visit Indiana 211 for referrals to local housing and legal aid providers

Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31, Chapter 8: Tenant Obligations and Landlord Remedies