Utility Rights in Bahrain
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Bahraini national legislation, decree-laws, and ministerial orders. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
Utility services in Bahrain are managed by the Electricity and Water Authority (EWA), with specific rules for tenants:
- Essential services: The landlord must ensure the property is connected to electricity, water, and sewage services at the start of the tenancy.
- EWA accounts: The utility account can be in the landlord's or tenant's name, depending on the lease. Clarify this before signing.
- Payment responsibility: The lease should state who pays for utilities. If silent, the tenant typically pays for consumption while the landlord covers infrastructure and connection costs.
- Utility disconnection as eviction is illegal: A landlord cannot cut off electricity or water to pressure a tenant to leave — this is self-help eviction and a criminal act.
- Subsidised rates for nationals: Bahraini nationals may receive subsidised electricity and water rates for their primary residence — a benefit administered through the EWA.
When does it apply?
- Your landlord has cut off your electricity or water supply.
- You are unsure who is responsible for utility bills under your lease.
- You are a Bahraini national and want to confirm you are receiving subsidised utility rates.
What to Do If Your Landlord Cuts Off Electricity or Water to Force You to Leave in Bahrain
- Check your lease for utility payment terms before signing — get clarity on what is included in rent vs. paid separately.
- If your landlord cuts utilities, call the police (999) — it is an illegal act and you can also report it to RERA.
- Contact EWA directly for billing disputes, meter readings, or connection issues.
- Keep copies of all utility bills and payment receipts — especially if your lease requires you to pay.
What should you NOT do?
- Do not tamper with meters or connections — this is a criminal offence that can result in fines and imprisonment.
- Do not assume the landlord pays utilities unless the lease explicitly says so.
- Do not ignore unusually high bills — report suspected leaks or meter issues to EWA promptly to avoid accumulating charges.
Common Questions
When does it apply — utility rights?
Your landlord has cut off your electricity or water supply.You are unsure who is responsible for utility bills under your lease.You are a Bahraini national and want to confirm you are receiving subsidised utility rates.
What should I do if my landlord has disconnected my electricity or water as a way to pressure me to vacate in Bahrain?
Check your lease for utility payment terms before signing — get clarity on what is included in rent vs. paid separately.If your landlord cuts utilities, call the police (999) — it is an illegal act and you can also report it to RERA.Contact EWA directly for billing disputes, meter readings, or connection issues.Keep copies of all utility bills and payment receipts — especially if your lease requires you to pay.
What should you NOT do — utility rights?
Do not tamper with meters or connections — this is a criminal offence that can result in fines and imprisonment.Do not assume the landlord pays utilities unless the lease explicitly says so.Do not ignore unusually high bills — report suspected leaks or meter issues to EWA promptly to avoid accumulating charges.