Can my landlord charge me extra for internet?

Yes, if your lease allows it. Charges should be clearly stated as a separate fee or as part of your rent.

What if I can’t get any internet provider at my apartment?

If your lease doesn't guarantee internet, the landlord is not required to arrange service. However, reasonable installation access must be allowed.

Can my landlord cut off my internet if I am late on rent?

No. Cutting off utilities is considered an unlawful eviction under Kansas state law.

How do I file a complaint if my landlord won’t resolve an internet issue?

You can file a complaint online with the Kansas Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division and attach your lease and evidence.

Is the landlord responsible for repairing in-unit wiring problems affecting internet?

Yes, if the wiring is part of your apartment’s structure. Submit a written maintenance request.

Kansas Renters: Who Handles Apartment Internet Service?

Utilities, Services & Billing Kansas published June 21, 2025

For renters in Kansas, clear internet access is essential—whether you’re working from home, studying, or just streaming your favorite shows. However, it’s not always obvious who is responsible for setting up and paying for internet service in apartment rentals. This guide explains Kansas-specific rules so you know your rights, where to turn for help, and what steps to take if you run into problems.

Who Is Responsible for Internet Service in Kansas Apartments?

Unlike some utilities (like water or trash), Kansas law does not require landlords to provide internet service in rental units. The answer often depends on:

The terms of your lease agreement
The type of apartment (such as student complexes or inclusive rentals)
Whether internet is bundled with other utilities

Most Kansas landlords are not legally required to provide or pay for internet unless the lease states otherwise. In many standard rentals, it is up to the tenant to set up and pay for service. However, some leases may say that internet is included in your rent—so always review your rental contract for exact details.

Check Your Lease Agreement First

Your lease is the primary source for clarifying who handles internet. Look for a utility or services section. If internet is listed, it should clearly state:

Who pays—tenant or landlord
What provider or level of service is included (if any)
Who arranges installation or maintenance

If the lease is silent on internet, it is typically your responsibility to arrange and pay for it. If you’re unsure, ask your landlord or property manager for written clarification.

Common Internet Service Scenarios for Kansas Renters

Here are the most common situations and what Kansas renters should know:

Internet Not Included: You sign up with your preferred provider and pay the bill in your name.
Internet Included: The landlord arranges service and includes it in rent. Ask what speed and provider are covered.
Shared Connection: Some apartment complexes offer shared Wi-Fi. Confirm if it’s reliable for your needs, and whether extra charges apply.
Installation Access: Kansas law requires that landlords allow reasonable access for utility installation.¹ However, you may need to schedule with your landlord if wiring or drilling is necessary.

Billing Problems or Internet Service Disputes

If you believe you have been unfairly billed, denied access, or the landlord is not delivering the internet service promised in your lease, follow these steps:

Raise the issue in writing with your landlord or manager
Keep copies of correspondence and your lease
If not resolved, you may file a complaint with the Kansas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division
For violations related to rental conditions or lock-outs, seek assistance from your local Kansas Housing Resources Corporation

Relevant Kansas Forms and When to Use Them

Kansas Tenant Complaint Form (no official numbered form):
- When to use: File this if your landlord is not honoring the lease agreement regarding internet service or utilities.
- Example: If your lease includes internet but the landlord refuses to provide it, you may submit a complaint to the Kansas Attorney General. Access the form and official instructions here.

The Kansas Attorney General’s Office is the official state agency overseeing consumer and rental complaints.

Relevant Laws and Where to Learn More

Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act sets out general utility and service rules (see §58-2553 and §58-2556).
For utility billing and right of access, see Kansas Statutes Annotated Chapter 58, Article 25A.

There is no separate landlord-tenant tribunal in Kansas; disputes are generally enforced or resolved through state district courts or with the assistance of the Kansas Attorney General’s office.²

If your internet is critical for work, clarify responsibilities in writing before you sign a lease or immediately after—a simple email is often enough to prevent misunderstandings.

Frequently Asked Questions About Internet in Kansas Rentals

Can my landlord charge me extra for internet?
Yes, if your lease allows it. Make sure internet charges are listed as a separate fee or as part of your rent in the lease agreement.
What if I can’t get any internet provider at my apartment?
If your lease doesn’t guarantee internet, the landlord is not required to arrange service. However, landlords must allow tenants reasonable access to install utilities if it does not damage the property.
Can my landlord cut off my internet if I am late on rent?
No. Disconnecting utilities is considered a form of unlawful eviction under the Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act §58-2563.³
How do I file a complaint if my landlord won’t resolve an internet issue?
File a complaint using the Kansas Attorney General’s Consumer Complaint process. Attach your lease and evidence of the issue.
Is the landlord responsible for repairing in-unit wiring problems that affect my internet?
Yes, if the wiring is part of the apartment’s structure. Report maintenance issues in writing immediately.

Key Takeaways for Kansas Renters

Your lease determines who pays for or provides internet in your Kansas apartment.
Landlords cannot cut off your utility services as a penalty for late rent.
If you believe your rights are being violated, the first step is to communicate in writing, then file an official complaint if needed.

Always review your lease in detail before signing and keep written records of utility agreements or issues for your protection.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Kansas Attorney General – Consumer Protection (Tenant Complaints)
Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (rental assistance, legal resources)
Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (full legal text)
File a Complaint with the Attorney General