10 Essential Facts About Rent & Deposits in Northwest Territories

Renting a home in the Northwest Territories comes with unique rules about rent, deposits, and your rights as a tenant. Understanding these facts will make your rental experience smoother and help you avoid costly mistakes. This guide breaks down the essentials for anyone renting in the NWT, from paying your rent to getting your deposit back.

1. The Legislation: Residential Tenancies Act (NWT)

Tenants and landlords in the Northwest Territories are protected and governed by the Residential Tenancies Act (NWT)^[1]. If a dispute arises, it is handled by the Office of the Rental Officer, the official residential tenancy tribunal—learn more about its role on the Rental Office website.^[2]

2. What is a Security Deposit?

A security deposit is money you pay to your landlord at the beginning of your tenancy. This deposit protects the landlord in case of unpaid rent or damages. In the NWT, security deposits are strictly regulated; landlords can only ask for up to one month's rent as a deposit.

For a detailed overview, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

3. Paying and Getting Your Deposit Back

After your tenancy ends, your landlord must return your deposit within 10 days unless there are lawful deductions for unpaid rent or damages (not regular wear and tear). Make sure to provide a forwarding address for a timely refund.

4. Forms You Need: NWT Rental Forms

• Application for Rental of Residential Premises (Form 1): Used to apply for a rental property. Complete this with your landlord when moving in. View and download Form 1.
• Termination Notice to Tenant (Form 9): Landlords use this for official notice to end a tenancy (for example, for non-payment of rent). See Form 9 here.
• Application to the Rental Officer (Form 15): If you and your landlord have a disagreement you can’t resolve, use this to make a formal application to the Rental Officer. Download Form 15.

Example: If your landlord keeps your security deposit unfairly, submit Form 15 along with supporting documents (move-in and move-out inspection reports, proof of payment, correspondence, etc.).

5. Rent Payments: Your Rights & Obligations

Rent is typically due on the first day of each month unless your rental agreement states otherwise. You have the right to a written receipt for every payment. If your rent is late, your landlord may issue a written notice (Form 9) and eventually apply to end your tenancy.

For more information about the rent process, check out Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

6. Rent Increases: Rules and Notice Periods

Landlords can increase your rent only once every 12 months, and they must provide written notice at least three full months in advance. The Residential Tenancies Act requires specific information on the notice—check it carefully before responding.

7. Initial Inspection: Document Your Rental’s Condition

Before moving in, both you and your landlord should conduct a written move-in inspection. This is not mandatory by law, but it is highly recommended. Take clear notes and photos—these will protect you if there is a disagreement over damages at move-out. You may wish to use a free printable inspection checklist.

8. Deductions from Security Deposits

Landlords can deduct from your deposit only for:

• Unpaid rent
• Costs to repair damages (excluding normal wear and tear)
• Other agreed-upon charges in your lease

They must provide a written, itemized statement with any deductions made.

9. What Counts as ‘Normal Wear and Tear’?

Examples include minor carpet wear, faded paint, or worn-out door handles. Major stains, holes, or broken appliances caused by negligence may be considered damage, not wear and tear.

10. What If You Disagree? Tenant Dispute Resolution

If you cannot resolve an issue with your landlord (for example, over a withheld deposit or rent receipts), you can apply to the Rental Officer. Use Form 15 (see above) and provide evidence such as photos, receipts, and correspondence.

For more info about what happens after you move in, visit Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

You may also wish to learn more about your Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

Looking for a new place to live? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much can my landlord ask for as a security deposit in the NWT?
   By law, security deposits cannot exceed the amount of one month's rent.
2. How quickly must my landlord return my security deposit after I move out?
   Your landlord must return your deposit within 10 days of the end of your tenancy, unless deductions are being made. If deductions are made, you must receive a written explanation.
3. Can my landlord increase my rent at any time?
   No. Rent can only be increased once every 12 months, and you must be given three full months' written notice before the increase takes effect.
4. What should I do if my landlord won’t return my deposit?
   First, request a written reason for the deduction. If you still disagree, complete Form 15 (Application to the Rental Officer) and submit it with your evidence to the Rental Officer.
5. What happens if I pay my rent late?
   Your landlord may issue an official notice using Form 9. Continued late payments can lead to proceedings to terminate your tenancy.

How To: Resolve Deposit or Rent Disputes in NWT

1. How do I dispute a withheld deposit?
   1. Ask for a written explanation for the deduction.
   2. Gather evidence (photos, inspection forms, correspondence).
   3. Complete Form 15 (Application to the Rental Officer).
   4. Submit the form and evidence to the Rental Officer.
   5. Attend a hearing if needed.
2. How can I challenge a rent increase?
   1. Carefully review the notice to ensure it meets legal requirements (at least three months’ written notice, once every 12 months).
   2. If the notice does not comply, raise your concern in writing to the landlord.
   3. If unresolved, you may apply to the Rental Officer using Form 15.
3. What steps should I take when moving out?
   1. Give proper written notice according to your rental agreement and the Act.
   2. Complete a move-out inspection with your landlord.
   3. Provide your new address for your deposit refund.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• NWT Rental Office (Rental Officer): Official tribunal for disputes, forms, and information.
• Residential Tenancies Act (NWT) – Read the current legislation
• Rental Office – Official Forms
• Local tenant support: For help, contact the Yellowknife Women's Society or NWT Legal Aid.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (NWT)
2. Rental Office, Government of Northwest Territories

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