Who Pays for Internet in North Carolina Apartments? Renter and Landlord Duties Explained

As a renter in North Carolina, questions often arise about who is responsible for arranging and paying for internet service. Whether you're moving in, facing slow speeds, or have problems with a landlord's bundled internet, it's important to know your rights and responsibilities under North Carolina law. This guide covers what North Carolina renters need to know about internet in rental units — including the legal basics, common issues, and where to turn for help.

Your Rights and Responsibilities with Internet Service

In North Carolina, internet is generally considered a voluntary service, not an essential utility like water or electricity. Because of this, state law does not require landlords to provide internet service unless:

• Your lease or rental agreement specifically includes internet in the rent — check for mention of "internet included," "Wi-Fi provided," or similar terms.
• You live in student housing, or in a building advertised as "all utilities included," where internet may be part of those utilities (always review your lease for exact terms).

Most renters are responsible for setting up and paying for their own internet connections. However, there are exceptions, and some landlords may offer pre-installed or bulk internet in the building, often charging tenants a fixed fee.

What North Carolina Law Says About Internet Service

There is no state law in North Carolina that directly requires landlords to provide internet. However, North Carolina General Statutes Chapter 42 – Landlord and Tenant set minimum habitability standards. These do not include internet access, but do cover essential utilities (water, electricity, heat).

If a lease promises internet as an amenity, the landlord is required to honor that promise, just as they are with any other included service. Failure to do so could be considered a breach of the lease agreement.

Common Internet-Related Issues for North Carolina Renters

Renters may run into several internet-related challenges. Here are some common situations and what you should do:

• Internet not working, but included in lease: Notify your landlord in writing and request a repair. If the issue isn't resolved, you may have grounds for a complaint.
• Landlord charges for mandatory internet not used: If your lease doesn't outline required internet fees, negotiate or refuse unnecessary charges.
• Landlord restricts choice of provider or type of service: Unless otherwise stated in your lease, you may choose your provider (subject to building wiring/access).
• Landlord enters to work on internet without notice: By law, landlords must give "reasonable notice" before entering for non-emergency maintenance (North Carolina General Statutes § 42-43).

Whenever possible, communicate in writing and keep a record of all requests and responses about internet services and fees.

What to Do if a Landlord Fails to Provide Promised Internet

If your lease says internet is included and your landlord fails to provide it, you may:

• Send a written notice to your landlord asking for immediate correction (sample form below).
• If not resolved, you may be able to file a complaint or pursue the issue with the North Carolina court system.

Key Forms for North Carolina Renters

While there is no state-specific form just for internet issues, the following documents and procedures apply if a landlord fails to deliver rental services promised in the lease.

• Notice to Landlord of Breach of Lease (no official number): Use this letter to formally inform your landlord that they are not honoring part of your lease, such as included internet.
  When to use: When your lease promises internet but it's not working or not set up as agreed.
  How to use: Fill out and deliver/mail to your landlord. Sample templates are available via the North Carolina Judicial Branch Housing Help site.
• Complaint in Small Claims Court: If your landlord refuses to honor the lease, you can file a complaint for damages. See official forms at North Carolina Court System Forms.
  When to use: Only after trying to resolve directly and if you suffer a financial loss (e.g., you pay double for internet).

Where to Address Rental Disputes

Rental disputes, including those over internet service when included in a lease, are generally handled by the North Carolina Judicial Branch. Small claims court is the main avenue for renters seeking monetary damages or specific performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is a landlord in North Carolina required to provide internet service?
   No. Unless your lease specifically states that internet is included, your landlord is not required by law to provide an internet connection.
2. Can my landlord choose the internet provider in my apartment?
   Usually, you may select your own provider. However, some buildings have exclusive contracts or wiring limitations. Always review your lease and ask before signing.
3. What if my lease says internet is included but it is not functional?
   Notify your landlord in writing, request a fix, and keep records. If not resolved, you may seek legal action through small claims court.
4. Can a landlord charge a separate mandatory fee for internet?
   Only if your lease outlines such charges. Otherwise, you cannot be required to pay for something not agreed in writing.
5. Where can I get help with an unresolved internet service issue in my rental?
   You may contact the North Carolina Judicial Branch or a local tenant advocacy group. See the resources section below.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Carolina Judicial Branch – Housing Help: Official guidance and forms for renters, including how to file a small claims complaint.
• North Carolina Department of Justice – Consumer Protection Division: For complaints about deceptive or unfair landlord practices.
• Legal Aid of North Carolina: Free legal support for low-income renters facing housing disputes.
• North Carolina General Statutes Chapter 42 – Landlord and Tenant: Full state law on residential rentals.
• Landlord-Tenant Tips from the NC Attorney General: Additional official advice.

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1. North Carolina General Statutes Chapter 42 – Landlord and Tenant
2. North Carolina Judicial Branch – Housing Help
3. North Carolina Attorney General – Landlord-Tenant Consumer Tips

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