Oregon Utilities Setup Checklist for New Renters

Starting a new rental in Oregon means ensuring your utilities are ready before move-in. Understanding your responsibilities as a renter—and knowing what your landlord must provide—will help you set up water, electricity, internet, and more, avoiding surprises on your first day. This guide walks you through Oregon's requirements, official forms, and where to turn for help.

What Utilities Do Renters Need to Set Up When Moving In?

Each rental is different, but most Oregon renters are responsible for setting up and paying for some or all of these utilities:

• Electricity
• Natural gas
• Water and sewer
• Garbage and recycling
• Internet, cable, and phone

Your lease should specify which utilities the landlord pays and which are your responsibility. In Oregon, landlords must provide a written disclosure stating who pays for each utility and whether utilities are individually metered or submetered. This requirement is set by Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) Chapter 90 – Residential Landlord and Tenant Law.^[1]

Checklist: Setting Up Utilities in Your New Oregon Rental

• Review your lease agreement: Confirm which utilities you need to set up and which your landlord provides.
• Get the written utility disclosure: Oregon law requires this before move-in.
• Start service: Contact local providers (Pacific Power, NW Natural, Portland Water Bureau, etc.) 1–2 weeks before your move-in date to set up accounts in your name.
• Check for unpaid bills: If utilities are master-metered or you’re moving into a previously occupied unit, request proof that past bills are paid.
• Save all paperwork: Utility start confirmations, lease, disclosures, and receipts.
• Document the move-in condition: Take meter readings and photos when you move in, especially in shared or submetered buildings.

Required Oregon Forms and Where to Find Them

• Utility or Service Charge Disclosure (ORS 90.315):
  When and how to use: Landlords must give this written disclosure when utilities are not paid directly by the renter. For example, if a landlord bills you back for water or garbage, you must receive the official disclosure at move-in.
  Sample Utility or Service Charge Disclosure (PDF, Oregon.gov)
• Move-In/Move-Out Condition Report:
  When and how to use: This optional form isn’t required by law, but using Oregon’s sample checklist can help settle disputes over utility damage or meter readings. Fill it out with your landlord at move-in.
  Move-In Condition Checklist (PDF, Oregon.gov)

Key Oregon Law on Utilities for Renters

According to ORS Chapter 90, landlords:

• Must clearly outline who is responsible for each utility in writing
• Cannot shut off essential utilities as a way to force a renter to leave
• Must give notice if billing back for utilities and provide details for any shared or submetered arrangements

Read your rental agreement and all disclosures carefully. If something isn’t clear, you have the right to ask for clarification before signing.

What If There Is a Utility Dispute?

If your landlord fails to provide legally required disclosures, or if you believe you’ve been wrongly billed or had utilities shut off, Oregon renters can:

• Request the correct disclosures in writing
• Contact Oregon’s official housing protections service for advice (see resources below)
• Apply to the local court (the small claims division of Oregon Circuit Court) to resolve disputes

Who Handles Tenant-Landlord Utility Issues in Oregon?

In Oregon, the relevant official tribunal is the Oregon Circuit Courts. Small claims and housing-related matters are handled at the county level.

1. Do landlords have to provide utilities in Oregon?
   Landlords must provide essential utilities unless your lease says you are responsible. The law also requires written disclosure of who pays for each service.
2. Can a landlord bill tenants for shared utilities?
   Yes, but landlords must give you a written disclosure showing the formula or method for billing. See the official utility disclosure form.
3. What should I do if my landlord shuts off my water or power?
   This is not allowed except for emergencies. Document the issue and contact the Oregon Circuit Court or a housing agency. For urgent support, call Oregon Housing and Community Services.
4. Who do I call for utility setup in Oregon?
   You’ll need to contact local providers such as Pacific Power, Portland General Electric, NW Natural Gas, or your city’s water bureau, depending on where you live.
5. Is there protection if my rental is not move-in ready or lacks utility service?
   If utilities are not available through no fault of your own, you may have rights for rent abatement or early termination under ORS 90.360. Get legal advice or file a complaint if needed.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Oregon Circuit Courts – Tenant/Landlord Issues
• Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90)
• Oregon Housing and Community Services – Tenant Support
• Oregon Health Authority – Drinking Water Safety
• Portland Water Bureau – Customer Service

---

1. Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) Chapter 90 – Residential Landlord and Tenant Law
2. Oregon Housing and Community Services – Renters Rights
3. Oregon Judicial Department – Circuit Courts

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations