The landlord has legal obligations to provide the apartment in habitable condition, including taking appropriate action to provide electricity, heat, and and water.  However, they do not have an obligation to give you access to the utility areas where electrical panels, water shut-off valves and the like are located.  Therefore, the solution to this issue is not a legal one.  In this case you should discuss the matter with the landlord, including the pros and cons of providing access to the utility areas, and attempt to come to some reasonable compromise.