Can my landlord claw back unpaid utility bills from my tenancy deposit?

5 Oct 2026, 02:57
Q A Reader Asker

Can my landlord claw back unpaid utility bills from my tenancy deposit?

A RentWise Team Answered by

A landlord may seek to deduct unpaid electricity, gas, broadband or other agreed tenant bills from the deposit if the tenancy agreement makes you responsible for them. They should be able to show evidence of the amount owed, such as provider statements, invoices or meter readings, and should explain the proposed deduction rather than making an arbitrary charge. Ask for a final bill and supporting documents, and challenge any incorrect amount in writing. If you cannot resolve the issue, the Residential Tenancies Board can consider the dispute based on the tenancy’s facts; RentWise is not the RTB or a solicitor.

This Q&A is editorial content produced by the RentWise team. It does not guarantee any individual outcome.
Q&A Contact