Who is responsible for paying utilities in a North Carolina rental?

Check your lease; usually, renters pay for power and cable, but specific responsibilities should be outlined clearly in the lease agreement.

Can my landlord bill me separately for utilities?

Yes, but only if the method is disclosed in your lease and complies with state regulations for submetering or allocation.

What if my utilities aren't connected on move-in day?

Contact your landlord first. If the problem isn't resolved, file a complaint with the North Carolina Utilities Commission.

Are utility setup fees or deposits required in North Carolina?

Most utility companies require an application fee or deposit, which may be waived for good credit or with assistance programs.

Where can I find help with utility costs if I can't afford them?

NC DHHS offers programs like Low-Income Energy Assistance to help qualified renters with utility setup and payments.

Essential Utilities Setup Checklist for North Carolina Renters

Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures North Carolina published: June 21, 2025

Moving into a new rental home in North Carolina isn’t just about getting your keys—it also means making sure your essential utilities are connected and ready. Understanding your responsibilities, local rules, and what to expect from your landlord helps ensure a smooth setup. This guide supports renters navigating water, power, and other utility arrangements, in line with North Carolina regulations.

Understanding Utilities Responsibility in North Carolina Rentals

Before you move, clarify with your landlord which utilities are included in rent and which ones you'll need to set up yourself. North Carolina law requires landlords to provide habitable premises—including access to certain essential services. However, specifics like who opens service accounts can vary by lease and property type.^[1]

Common Utilities for Rental Properties

Electricity (Duke Energy, Dominion Energy, or local provider)
Water and Sewer (usually city/town or local utility authority)
Natural Gas (Piedmont Natural Gas or local supplier)
Trash and Recycling Services
Internet, Cable TV, and Telephone

Utilities Setup Checklist: Step-by-Step

Plan ahead—many utility providers recommend scheduling connections a week in advance. Here’s what to do:

1. Review your lease: Check which utilities you're responsible for. The lease must follow statewide rental rules under the North Carolina General Statutes Chapter 42.
2. Gather documentation: Most companies need proof of address, a photo ID, and your move-in date. Some may request a copy of your signed lease.
3. Contact providers: Reach out to the relevant company for each service—see local municipality or state-approved utility lists. For power, try Duke Energy or Dominion Energy. For water/sewer, use your city or town’s utility website.
Check with your landlord if unsure which company serves your rental address.
4. Complete applications and pay deposits: Many providers require an application and may charge a setup or deposit fee. Financial assistance is available for qualifying households—contact North Carolina Low-Income Energy Assistance Program if needed.
5. Schedule installation or activation: Some utilities can be turned on remotely; others need an appointment. Aim for activation before your move-in day.
6. Verify everything works: On move-in, check that all utilities function properly. If not, notify your landlord and the utility company immediately.

Specific Forms and Legal Resources for Renters

New Utility Connection Application (varies by provider):
- Example: Duke Energy Start Service
- When to use: To request new service for electricity. Complete online or by phone before your move-in date.
City/County Water Service Application:
- Example: City of Raleigh New Water Account
- When to use: If water is not included in rent, file this with the local water authority to open your own account.
Utility Complaint Form – North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC):
- Name: NCUC Public Staff Consumer Statement of Complaint
- NCUC Online Complaint Form
- When to use: File if you're unable to get your rental utilities connected due to landlord or provider delay.

The North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC) oversees utility companies and helps resolve utility complaints for renters and landlords statewide.

Understanding Disclosure Laws and Inspections

Landlords must disclose if there are separate meters, submetering, or any system where utility costs are divided among tenants. Look for these disclosures in your lease agreement. Under NC landlord-tenant statutes, you have a right to safe, working systems and advance written notice of any utility billing arrangement.^[1]

If you find any issues with water, heating, or electricity safety during move-in, notify your landlord promptly and document your report. If repairs or connections are unreasonably delayed, you may be able to seek remedies under state law.

Key Inspections for Move-In

Check all faucets for running water and hot water availability
Test each power outlet and light fixture
Verify heating and cooling systems work
Ask about lead, mold, or asbestos disclosures (landlords must provide lead disclosure for older buildings under federal law)

Remember: If utilities aren’t ready—or you face unexpected charges—ask for written documentation and learn about your rights to a habitable rental.

FAQs About Utilities in North Carolina Rentals

Who is responsible for paying utilities in a North Carolina rental?
Responsibility depends on your lease agreement. Typically, renters pay for electricity and internet/cable, while some rentals include water and trash. Make sure your lease states who handles which utility.
Is my landlord allowed to charge me extra for utilities?
Landlords can only bill for utilities if the method is disclosed in the lease. They must follow state-metering or submetering regulations and cannot add undisclosed fees.^[1]
What happens if my landlord doesn’t provide access to essential utilities?
If required utilities aren’t available due to landlord action or negligence, you may be entitled to remedies such as rent reduction or complaint filing with the NC Utilities Commission.
Do I need to pay a deposit to utility companies?
Many providers request a deposit unless you have good credit or prior positive payment history. Ask about deposit waivers or assistance programs.
Where can I get help if I can’t afford my utility setup or deposits?
Contact the NC Department of Health and Human Services for programs like Low-Income Energy Assistance.

Key Takeaways for Renters Moving Into a North Carolina Rental

Always check your lease for utility responsibilities and disclosures
Set up essential utilities ahead of move-in for a stress-free transition
Know your rights: use official complaint forms if service is delayed or denied

For the smoothest move-in experience, confirm responsibilities, keep documentation, and know where to get help if any issues arise with your rental utilities.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

North Carolina Housing Coalition – Renter support and education
North Carolina Utilities Commission – Utilities regulation and consumer complaints
NC Department of Insurance – Consumer Assistance
NC DHHS Low-Income Energy Assistance
North Carolina Landlord-Tenant Law (NCGS Chapter 42)

North Carolina General Statutes Chapter 42 – Landlord and Tenant: NCGS Chapter 42 Landlord-Tenant Statutes