Utilities Setup Checklist for Michigan Renters

Setting up utilities is an essential step when moving into a new rental home in Michigan. Whether you're in an apartment or a house, knowing how to handle electricity, gas, water, and other services smooths your move-in and ensures comfort from day one. This checklist supports Michigan renters with clear steps, key forms, and vital legal protections.

Understanding Utilities Responsibilities in Michigan Rentals

In Michigan, landlords and tenants share utility responsibilities, but these must be clearly stated in your lease agreement. The Michigan Truth in Renting Act requires landlords to disclose which utilities are included in the rent and which are your responsibility.¹ Before move-in, review your lease and clarify:

• Which utilities (electricity, gas, water, trash, internet) you need to set up or transfer
• If there are any municipal requirements, such as water billing in your city or township
• Whether there are limits on your right to choose specific providers

Contact your landlord if any details are missing, and always get clarifications in writing.

Michigan Renters’ Utilities Setup Checklist

Use this step-by-step checklist to arrange all essential services during your move-in:

• Electricity & Gas: Contact Consumers Energy or DTE Energy early to start or transfer service. You may be asked for a deposit and proof of residence.
• Water & Sewer: Check if your municipality handles water/sewer accounts or if they are in the landlord's name. For instance, see Michigan's Drinking Water Supplier Directory for contact information.
• Trash & Recycling: Find your city or township’s waste management provider and set up collection if needed.
• Cable & Internet: Research providers in your area, as options can vary greatly between cities.
• Get Lease Disclosures in Writing: Michigan law requires landlords to provide utility disclosure statements if renters must pay the bills.¹

Key Forms for Utility Setup in Michigan

• Tenant Utilities Release Authorization (when needed): Some utility companies require a Tenant Release or permission from the landlord to set up or switch accounts. Check with your local utility provider—look for this on their customer service or move-in webpages.
• Move-In/Move-Out Checklist (Form): Michigan recommends using a property checklist, which helps record utility meter readings at move-in and move-out. Official version: Move-In/Move-Out Inventory Checklist (no form number). Present this to your landlord when documenting the property's condition or if there are utility-related repairs.
  Example: If you move in and find water or gas appliances don't work, note it on this checklist and inform your landlord immediately.

Your Rights as a Michigan Renter

If you are responsible for setting up utilities, landlords must:

• Ensure services are available for setup on your move-in day
• Disclose any existing bills that might interfere with your start of service
• Not withhold utility access as a way to pressure tenants

If the landlord is supposed to handle utilities and fails to do so, you may file a complaint with the Michigan Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division or seek other support as outlined below.

Common Utility Issues and How to Address Them

• Transfer Issues: If there is a past-due bill under a previous tenant or landlord, contact the utility company and provide your lease and inventory checklist as proof of new tenancy.
• Repair Delays: Michigan law requires landlords to maintain essential utilities. If your landlord does not respond to reports of unsafe situations like no heat or water, you may contact your local housing inspector or the Consumer Protection Division.
• Utility Shut-Off Notices: Always communicate your move-in status to the utility provider. If you receive a notice in error, provide your new tenancy documents and the completed Move-In/Move-Out Inventory Checklist.

Official Tribunal Handling Tenancy and Utility Disputes in Michigan

For utility disputes between landlords and tenants, the Michigan District Court has jurisdiction over residential tenancy cases, including those involving essential services.² You can learn more about filing a complaint here.

FAQ: Utilities and Moving In—Michigan Renters

1. What if my landlord included utilities in the rent?
   If utilities are included in your rent, your landlord is responsible for maintaining service and paying bills unless otherwise stated in your lease. Always clarify this before signing.
2. Can a landlord shut off my utilities if I’m late with rent?
   No. Michigan law prohibits landlords from shutting off essential utilities as a response to missed rent payments. Utility shut-off for nonpayment is only lawful by the utility company itself and after due process.²
3. What should I do if the utility company says there is an outstanding previous balance?
   Provide proof of your new tenancy, such as your lease and the Move-In/Move-Out Checklist. Ask the provider to start a new account in your name.
4. Where can I get help with utility bills if I can't afford them?
   Michigan offers assistance programs through the Department of Health & Human Services—see Energy Assistance Resources for eligibility and application (State Emergency Relief).
5. Do I need my landlord’s permission to set up utilities?
   In most cases, no, but some providers require a landlord’s authorization or notification, especially if the utility was previously in the landlord’s name. Ask your landlord and the utility provider about their specific policy.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Michigan Renters

• Always confirm who is responsible for utilities before moving in, and get it in writing.
• Use the Move-In/Move-Out Checklist to record meter readings and any utility-related property issues.
• Know your rights under Michigan law—utility shut-off as retaliation is prohibited, and assistance is available if you face difficulties.

Careful planning and documentation help ensure a smooth start in your new Michigan rental home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Michigan

• Michigan Attorney General – Landlord/Tenant Information.
• Michigan Courts: Self-Help for Renters and Landlords
• State Emergency Relief (Utility Assistance)
• Michigan Water Supplier Directory
• For rental disputes, contact your local Michigan District Court

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1. Michigan Truth in Renting Act (Act 454 of 1978)
2. Michigan Compiled Laws Section 554.139 – Landlord Obligations

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