Can My Landlord Keep Utilities in Their Name in England?

If you rent your home in England, you may wonder whether your landlord is allowed to keep household utility bills like gas, electricity, or water in their name rather than yours. Knowing your rights around utilities is important for avoiding unfair charges and ensuring you have access to essential services. This guide explains when a landlord can keep utilities in their name, your responsibilities, and what to do if there is a problem—based on the latest English housing law as of 2024.

Understanding Utilities and Tenancy Agreements in England

Utilities typically include gas, electricity, water, and sometimes broadband or TV licensing. The law and your tenancy agreement determine who is responsible for setting up and paying for these bills. In England, most renters have one of these:

• Assured shorthold tenancy (AST): the most common type
• Excluded/Occupier with basic rights: usually lodgers or people sharing with the landlord

Your agreement should state who is responsible for utilities. If it does not, or if you have questions, you are not alone—this is a common issue.

Can a Landlord Keep Utilities in Their Name?

In England, landlords can keep the utilities in their own name if:

• The tenancy is "all-inclusive" (utilities & bills are included in your rent, with no extra charge)
• You live in a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) where the landlord manages all bills

However, if you pay utilities separately from your rent, you usually have the right to have bills in your own name and choose your suppliers.¹

What Does the Law Say?

According to the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, tenants are protected from unfair or excessive charges when bills are included. The landlord must not profit from utility charges and must provide you with a breakdown if requested. If you pay utilities directly, you have a right to choose your supplier and should not be prevented from doing so.²

Responsibilities: Landlord vs. Tenant

• If bills are included: Landlord stays responsible. Ask for details on exactly what's covered and any reasonable usage caps.
• If bills are paid separately: You can usually contact utility companies to switch the bills into your name once your tenancy starts. The landlord should provide meter readings at check-in and check-out.

If your landlord insists on keeping the bills in their name and charging you separately, they must:

• Charge only for the amount you actually use
• Provide copies of utility bills and show how costs are calculated

Council Tax

Council tax is usually the tenant's responsibility if the entire property is rented. In some shared accommodation, the landlord may be responsible. Check your agreement and confirm with your local council. Find your council at the official government council finder.

What to Do If There’s a Problem

If you are prevented from putting utilities into your name or believe you are being overcharged:

• Ask your landlord for an explanation in writing (email or letter)
• Gather evidence: tenancy agreement, previous bills, your communications
• Contact your utility supplier to discuss your options or file an objection
• Contact your local council’s Tenancy Relations Officer if utility arrangements seem unfair
• You may be able to apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) to challenge unreasonable charges or seek redress. This is the official tribunal for residential tenancy disputes in England.

Relevant Official Forms

• Form: Tenancy Dispute Application (T601)
  Use if you wish to dispute a charge, including utilities, with your landlord at the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).
  Download Form T601 from GOV.UK.
  Example: You are charged a large sum by your landlord for electricity and you believe they are overcharging you. You fill out Form T601, attach the tenancy agreement and copies of any bills, and submit it to the tribunal.

FAQ: Utilities in Rental Properties (England)

1. Can my landlord refuse to let me put utilities in my name?
   If you are responsible for paying the utility bills directly, you usually have the right to request that they be put in your name and to choose your own supplier. Your landlord should not unreasonably refuse.
2. What if my bills are much higher than expected and I can't see the actual charges?
   Ask your landlord for a breakdown and copies of the bills. If they don't provide it or if you suspect you’ve been overcharged, you may challenge this using Form T601 at the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).
3. Are landlords allowed to add a fee or profit from utilities?
   No. Under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, landlords cannot make a profit from charging tenants for utilities; you should be charged only for the actual cost.
4. Who is responsible for council tax in a shared house?
   This varies. If you rent the whole property as a group, tenants are usually responsible. In some HMOs or multi-tenancy situations, the landlord may pay. Check your agreement and verify with your local council.
5. Can I challenge a dispute about utilities or bills formally?
   Yes. You can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) using Form T601 if you believe charges are unfair or the arrangement is unreasonable. The tribunal has the authority to decide tenancy disputes in England.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters

• Landlords can keep utilities in their name if bills are included in rent, but cannot profit from charges
• As a renter paying bills separately, you have the right to choose your supplier and get utility bills in your name
• If disputes arise, gather evidence, communicate in writing, and use official forms and tribunals if needed

Understanding these rules helps you avoid stress and ensures fair treatment during your tenancy.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Shelter England advice on bills and repairs
• Citizens Advice: Utility bills and energy suppliers for private renters
• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) - apply, guidance, forms
• Form T601—Tenancy Dispute Application
• Ofgem—regulator for gas and electricity markets

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1. Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, see full Act text on legislation.gov.uk
2. Energy supplier switching rights: Your right to switch supplier (Ofgem)

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