Utilities Setup Checklist for Maryland Renters

Moving into a new rental in Maryland can be exciting, but setting up utilities is an essential step for a smooth transition. Knowing what utilities you'll need, how to get them connected, and where the responsibilities lie helps prevent unexpected expenses or disruptions. This guide focuses on utilities setup for Maryland renters, empowering you to get started quickly and legally.

Understanding Utility Responsibilities in Maryland Rentals

Before moving in, it's important to confirm who is responsible for each utility, as this can differ between properties or lease agreements. Usually, landlords may pay for water and trash while tenants cover electric and gas—but always check your lease for details.

• Electricity & Gas: Commonly the renter’s responsibility.
• Water & Sewer: Often paid by the landlord, but review your lease.
• Trash & Recycling: Sometimes included in rent, especially for multi-unit buildings.
• Internet, Cable, Phone: Usually set up by the renter, but check if the building is already wired.

Key Steps: Utilities Setup Checklist

Follow this utilities setup checklist as soon as your move-in date approaches:

• 1. Review Your Lease: Confirm utility details and shared-meter arrangements, if any.
• 2. Obtain Required Utility Disclosure Forms: Maryland law requires landlords to disclose utility arrangements and, when applicable, provide written notice if utilities are submetered or apportioned.
• 3. Gather Landlord-Provisioned Account Info: For master-metered utilities, you may require an account number or written consent to set up an individual service.
• 4. Contact Utility Companies: Schedule activation ahead of your move-in date. Major providers in Maryland include:
• Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE): New Service
• DC Water: Start or Stop Service
• Pepco: Moving Service
• WSSC Water: Customer Service
• 5. Complete Required Forms: If you set up an electric minimum payment agreement (for winter service) or enroll in energy assistance, official forms like the Maryland Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) may be required. See more details in the next section.
• 6. Safety Check: Test smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, and ask your landlord for a recent lead hazard inspection certificate if renting a property built before 1978.

Required Official Forms and Legal Notices

• Utility Disclosure Notice (no standard state form):
  Maryland law requires landlords to provide written notice if you are responsible for shared utilities or if utilities are submetered/apportioned. This must outline the calculation and payment processes (Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-208).
  Example: If your unit receives a portion of the total water bill, your landlord must supply a document showing how your share is calculated each month.
• Maryland Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) Application (DHS/OHEP Form):
  Download the official application form here. Use this if you need help paying utility bills as a renter. Submit online or at your local Department of Human Services office.
• Lead Hazard Inspection Certificate (MDE 330):
  If you are renting a property built before 1978, the landlord must provide a lead inspection certificate from the Maryland Department of the Environment. Example: Before move-in, request a copy of form MDE 330 confirming the property meets lead safety rules.

What If There’s a Utility Problem or Dispute?

If you face issues like shutoffs, billing errors, or denied access to essential utilities, state law protects your rights. Maryland’s official tenant-landlord board is the Maryland Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division (Landlord-Tenant Unit). You can also contact the Office of People's Counsel for utility-specific complaints.

• Document Communication: Keep a written record of all landlord and utility interactions.
• File a Formal Complaint: If disputes persist, you may file through the Attorney General's online complaint form for tenant issues.

Tip: For utility shutoff protection during cold months, eligible renters may apply for a winter moratorium through their utility provider or the Maryland Energy Assistance Program.

FAQ: Utilities and Move-In in Maryland Rentals

1. Do Maryland landlords have to provide a lead inspection certificate before move-in?
   Yes. If the property was built before 1978, landlords must provide a Maryland lead hazard inspection certificate (form MDE 330) prior to occupancy.
2. How can I find out which utilities I'm responsible for?
   The lease agreement should outline which utilities are your responsibility. Ask your landlord for a utility breakdown in writing if any details are unclear.
3. What should I do if my utilities aren’t turned on by move-in day?
   Check your lease for responsibility, contact the utility provider, and notify your landlord. If essential utilities remain off, you can contact the Maryland Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Unit for guidance.
4. Can my landlord split utility bills between tenants?
   Yes, but state law requires the landlord to disclose, in writing, how shared utility costs are calculated and apportioned among tenants.
5. Where do I file a complaint about a utility service or dispute?
   You may begin with the Maryland Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Unit or the Office of People's Counsel for utility-specific issues.

Summary: Key Takeaways for Maryland Renters

• Always confirm utility responsibilities, and get them in writing within your lease.
• Request and review all required legal disclosures, especially for shared utilities.
• Contact official state agencies for support or to resolve disputes.

Proactively organizing your utilities not only ensures a comfortable move-in but also helps you protect your rights under Maryland rental law.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maryland Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Unit – Main authority for tenant-landlord matters.
• Public Service Commission of Maryland – Utility regulation and complaint information.
• Maryland Office of Home Energy Programs – Utility bill assistance, MEAP application.
• Maryland Office of People's Counsel – Utility Disputes Help

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1. Maryland Code, Real Property § 8-208 – Landlord-Tenant Utility Disclosures
2. Maryland Department of the Environment – Lead Inspection Requirements
3. Maryland Department of Labor – Shared Metering Rules
4. Maryland Attorney General’s Landlord-Tenant Section

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