Utilities
Scroll down to articles and other content in this section below.
12 Results
Understanding utilities as a tenant
Learn more about paying utilities like electricity and gas as a tenant. Find out what rights and protections you have.
Also in
Chapter 6: Utilities
This chapter from the Legal Tactics: Private Housing e-book is about your rights in dealing with electric, gas, and water companies.
Help with utilities and landlines for survivors of domestic violence
How to keep your gas, electricity, and landline telephone service on if you are a survivor of domestic violence.
Also in
Lifeline: Discount for phone and internet
Learn more about Lifeline, a federal government program.
Also in
Stop your heat and electricity from getting shut off
How to stop a gas or electricity shutoff in winter, if you are 65, or there is a baby or sick person at home.
Also in
Water rights: Do landlords or tenants pay for water in Massachusetts?
Usually, landlords in Massachusetts pay for water, not tenants. Learn more.
Fuel Assistance (HEAP): Get help paying your heating bills
The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP), also known as Fuel Assistance, can help you pay your heating bills this winter. In some years, it can also help with non-heating electric bills.
Also in
What can I do if my landlord tries to lock me out or turns off my heat or utilities?
Learn what you can do if your landlord tries to evict you illegally.
Also in
Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)
Learn more about the ending of the ACP.
Also in
Getting Help Paying Your Bills
Here are some possible ways to get help paying your utility bills.
Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Income Eligibility Chart
This chart shows the amount your income needs to be below to qualify for HEAP this year. HEAP is a free program that can help pay your winter heating bills.
Also in
Video: Stop your heat from getting shut off this winter
If you are low-income and can't pay your heating bills, a winter moratorium in Massachusetts prevents gas and electric companies from shutting off your service between November 15 and March 15. Learn more in this short video.