Utilities Setup Checklist for Virginia Renters

Moving into a new rental home in Virginia is an exciting step, but making sure your utilities are set up correctly is just as important as unpacking your boxes. As a renter in Virginia, you have certain rights and responsibilities when it comes to arranging for electricity, water, gas, trash collection, and internet. This guide walks you through the process, highlights essential forms, and explains your protections under Virginia law.

What Utilities Are Typically Needed?

Most Virginia rentals require setup or transfer of the following essential utilities:

• Electricity
• Water and sewer
• Gas (if applicable)
• Trash and recycling
• Internet and cable

Your lease should clearly state which utilities you are responsible for and which are included. Review your lease carefully and refer to the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA) summary.

Step-by-Step Utilities Setup for New Virginia Renters

Getting your utilities up and running requires early planning. Follow these steps for a smooth move-in:

1. Confirm Utility Responsibilities in Your Lease

• Landlords must specify who pays for each utility. Typically, tenants set up electricity, internet, and gas, while water/trash may be included or billable separately.
• If utilities are to remain in the landlord’s name but you pay a share, this must be described in the lease, per § 55.1-1212 of the VRLTA.

2. Gather Required Documents & Info

• Lease agreement with address
• Photo ID
• Social Security Number or Tax ID
• Move-in date
• Proof of address, such as a signed lease

3. Contact Your Local Utility Providers

Arrange service activation for all accounts you’re responsible for. Here’s how:

• Electricity: Dominion Energy (Dominion Energy Virginia) is the primary provider for most areas. For some locations, it may be Appalachian Power or a municipal utility.
• Water & Sewer: Usually handled by your city or county public works or utility department. Contact them directly or check your municipality's website.
• Gas: Main providers are Columbia Gas of Virginia or Washington Gas. Check your lease for applicability.
• Trash/Recycling: Oftentimes covered by local government or included in rent. Confirm with your landlord.
• Internet/Cable: Multiple private providers (e.g., Comcast Xfinity, Verizon Fios); research local options in advance.

4. Request Disclosures Before Move-In

Virginia requires landlords to disclose any known utility issues, such as shared meters, submetering, or estimated billing. Request all disclosures before signing your lease.

5. Complete the Utility Connection Process

• Call or use online forms from the provider to establish service in your name.
• Schedule connection dates that align with your move-in.
• Deposit may be required for new accounts—ask if you qualify for waiver with good credit or previous history.

6. Verify Utility Readings

• Request meter readings (electric, water, gas) on move-in day to avoid being billed for previous tenants’ usage.
• Document current readings and keep records of your first utility bills.

Key Forms and Official Resources

• Summary of the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (no form number):
  Landlords must provide this summary to every new tenant. It explains your rights and obligations about utilities, disclosures, and service interruptions. Download the VRLTA Summary PDF.
  Example: Receive this form from your landlord before move-in. Keep it for future reference.
• Utility Submetering Disclosure Form:
  Required when utilities are submetered, or charges are based on allocation formulas, as per § 55.1-1212 VRLTA.
  Example: Landlord gives you this form if your water bill is calculated by the number of occupants, not a private meter.

Who Handles Rental Utility Disputes?

In Virginia, the official body for rental disputes is the local General District Court (General District Court information). For landlord-tenant disagreements over utilities or disclosures, small claims or civil division may hear your case.

See the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA) for current tenant rights and legislative requirements.

FAQ: Utilities for Virginia Renters

1. What if my landlord refuses to disclose utility arrangements?
   Your landlord is legally required to inform you of all utility details, including charges, submetering, or shared meters, under § 55.1-1212 of the VRLTA. Request this information in writing, and if it is not provided, document your request and seek legal help if needed.
2. Can my landlord shut off my utilities if I am late on rent?
   No, landlords are prohibited from interrupting essential services like water, heat, or electricity—even if rent is overdue. Doing so is a violation of § 55.1-1243 VRLTA.
3. If I pay utilities through my landlord, can they keep my service deposit?
   Utility deposits must be handled according to your lease and state law. Any deductions must be explained at move-out in writing, and undisputed deposits returned within 45 days, per § 55.1-1226 VRLTA.
4. What should I do if a utility is not working when I move in?
   Notify your landlord immediately in writing. They are responsible for ensuring utilities are working at move-in, unless your lease says otherwise. If not addressed promptly, consult the General District Court or your local housing authority.

Conclusion: Setting Up Utilities with Confidence

• Confirm your utility responsibilities in the lease and gather required documentation.
• Understand your rights under the VRLTA—utilities disclosures are mandatory.
• Contact service providers and document meter readings at move-in for a smooth rental experience.

Following these best practices removes surprises and helps guarantee your new Virginia rental starts off on the right foot.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development: Renters & Tenants Resources
• Virginia General District Court: Landlord-Tenant Division
• Full Text of the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
• Local Legal Aid: Virginia Legal Aid Directory

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1. Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA)
2. VRLTA Summary for Tenants
3. Virginia General District Court Landlord-Tenant Information

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