Home > Tenant Resources > Utility Disconnection & Security Deposit

Utilities Security Deposit

Before you rent a new place, call Peterborough Utilities Services, Hydro One or Enbridge to
find out the average monthly cost of hydro or gas. We see many people who can afford their rent
but can't afford their utilities. Call before you rent: make sure you don't get a shock when you open
your first bill.

Under Ontario Energy Board (OEB) regulations, hydro companies are allowed to charge
consumers a security deposit equal to 2.5 times the average monthly consumption over the past
year. If the average monthly hydro bill for your home was $150, the hydro company can charge you
a deposit of $375.

Hydro companies may charge a deposit; they do not have to do so.  Natural gas companies may charge security deposits as well. The Ontario Energy Board does not regulate these deposits.You may be charged a deposit if you are a new customer, or if you do not maintain a good payment history. According to OEB guidelines, hydro companies must allow you to pay your deposit over a minimum of four months if you ask them. However, you can be charged the deposit in full if you don't meet the payment arrangements for these installments.

Companies must return your deposit to you if you maintain a good payment history for 12 months
(no hand-delivered notices, NSF payments or house visits). Natural gas companies may charge security deposits as well. The Ontario Energy Board does not regulate these deposits.

Contact the Peterborough Community Legal Centre, or go to CLEO or ACTO for more information on tenants’ rights and responsibilities.

Utility Disconnection

Utility companies can disconnect people in winter. There is no law or rule stopping them from turning off the hydro or gas if your bill isn't paid no matter how cold it is outside, or if you have children.

If you didn't pay a security deposit when you moved in, you may be charged a deposit if you have trouble paying your bill or get disconnected. Peterborough Utilities Services charges customers a security deposit if they get 2 credit points. Customers get 1 credit point for a hand delivered notice, 1 point for an NSF payment, and 2 points for a house visit.

Note: If you do not pay your bill or make payment arrangements 7 days after the due date on your bill you will receive a hand delivered notice 7 days later. Service will be cut 8 days later if you have not paid or made arrangements with the utility. Note that other utility companies may handle the collections and disconnection process differently.

If you run into trouble with your utility bills, there may be emergency financial assistance available to you through the Housing Resource Centre or other local sources.  *Please note that The Housing Resource Centre is unable to provide financial assistance toward utility deposits.*