Rhode Island Utilities Setup Checklist: Renters' Guide

Moving into a new rental in Rhode Island comes with many details, and getting your utilities up and running is one of the most important. This checklist guides renters through each step of setting up essential services—like electricity, water, gas, and internet—while highlighting your legal rights and key Rhode Island requirements. No legal background is needed; everything is explained in clear terms so you can feel confident and empowered from day one.

Understanding Utility Responsibilities in Rhode Island Rentals

Before you contact providers, confirm with your landlord which utilities you're responsible for. In Rhode Island, landlords must specify in your lease who pays for each utility, according to the Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act^[1].

• Electricity & Gas: Often paid by the tenant; confirm account transfer and provider.
• Water & Sewer: Sometimes included in rent; clarify with your landlord.
• Trash & Recycling: Usually covered by local municipalities, but double-check with your town or landlord.
• Heat (oil, propane, etc.): Varies by lease and building type; always confirm upfront.

Get a written breakdown of responsibility for each utility. This helps avoid future confusion or disputes regarding unpaid bills.

Rhode Island Utilities Setup Checklist for Renters

1. Review Your Lease and Required Disclosures

• Read your lease for utility clauses.
• Landlords in Rhode Island are required to identify who pays for each utility.
• Request the lead hazard disclosure form if renting a property built before 1978.
• This form is called the "Lead Hazard Mitigation Certificate" (no specific number). Your landlord must provide a copy before move-in if applicable. See and download the form here.

2. Set Up or Transfer Utility Accounts

• Request a final meter reading at move-in to avoid billing for prior tenants' usage.
• Contact these common Rhode Island utility providers:
  • Electricity: Rhode Island Energy
  • Gas: Rhode Island Energy
  • Water: Local city/town (e.g., Providence Water Supply Board)
  • Trash/Recycling: Check your city/town Rhode Island Resource Recovery Corporation
• Be prepared with:
  • Your lease agreement
  • Photo ID
  • Move-in date
  • Utility account numbers (if transferring)

3. Know Your Rights: Utility Service Protections

• By law, landlords cannot shut off utilities as a method of eviction. If you face a utility shutoff dispute, contact the Rhode Island District Court - Landlord-Tenant Division for assistance^[2].
• Tenants in multi-unit buildings may request a breakdown of utility usage when submetered.
• If your unit has unsafe conditions or service interruptions, you can file a complaint with the Rhode Island Housing Help Center.

4. Additional Utilities: Internet, Cable, Phone

• Shop for broadband, TV, or phone providers. Providers may offer move-in specials for new customers.
• Coordinate installation appointments close to your move-in date for minimal disruption.

5. Notify Service Providers When Leaving

• Schedule final readings and close or transfer accounts before moving out. This helps avoid surprise bills and keeps your credit history clear.

Filing Complaints or Resolving Utility Issues

If you experience unresolved issues—like improper shutoff or a landlord refusing to name responsible parties—Rhode Island renters can:

• Contact the Rhode Island Housing Help Center for mediation or advice.
• File a complaint with the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission (PUC) regarding utility provider practices.
• Submit a "District Court Landlord Tenant Complaint" if landlords fail to follow the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act utility laws.^[1] Download the Landlord Tenant Complaint Form (no number, from state site) and follow instructions on page 1.

These steps help Rhode Island renters resolve most common utility disputes efficiently.

FAQ: Utilities and Moving In for Rhode Island Renters

1. What utilities am I responsible for as a renter in Rhode Island? Most renters are responsible for electricity, gas, cable/internet, and sometimes water or heat. Your lease must state which utilities you pay, per state law.
2. What do I do if my landlord tries to shut off my utilities? This is illegal in Rhode Island as a method of eviction. Contact the Rhode Island District Court Landlord-Tenant Division immediately for support.
3. Can I set up utility accounts before I move in? Yes, you can schedule start dates for utility service in advance by providing your move-in date to providers.
4. What official forms should I request or file regarding utilities? Request the Lead Hazard Mitigation Certificate before move-in (for homes built before 1978). If you have a dispute over utilities, use the District Court Landlord Tenant Complaint Form.
5. Who helps renters resolve utility issues in Rhode Island? The Rhode Island District Court Landlord-Tenant Division, Rhode Island Housing Help Center, and the RI Public Utilities Commission are official resources for complaints and mediation.

Summary: Key Takeaways for Rhode Island Renters

• Always review your lease for utility responsibilities—ask questions if it's unclear.
• Set up your own utility accounts before move-in to avoid service gaps or billing issues.
• Use official forms for disclosures and complaints; keep documentation for your records.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Rhode Island District Court Landlord-Tenant Division – Handles residential tenancy disputes and complaints (Official Complaint Form)
• Rhode Island Housing Help Center – Renter rights, utility assistance, and mediation
• RI Public Utilities Commission Consumer Complaints – Utility disconnections, billing, and service quality issues
• Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – The main legislation covering tenant utility rights
• RI DEM Lead Hazard Information – Disclosure requirements for lead in rental properties

---

1. Rhode Island Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Title 34, Chapter 18)
2. Rhode Island District Court – Landlord Tenant Information

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