Are Landlords Allowed to Charge a Pet Deposit in Northwest Territories?

Pets are important family members for many tenants, but questions about pet deposits and legal limits are common—especially in the Northwest Territories. Understanding what your landlord can (and cannot) charge for when you have a pet ensures a smoother tenancy and avoids unwanted surprises.

Pet Deposits in the Northwest Territories: What Tenants Need to Know

In the Northwest Territories, landlords may charge a pet deposit, but there are clear rules about how much and how it must be managed. The law protects both tenant and landlord interests.

Key Rules for Pet Deposits

• Landlords are legally allowed to charge a separate pet deposit if you wish to keep a pet in your rental unit.
• The pet deposit cannot exceed 50% of one month’s rent.
• This pet deposit is in addition to the regular security deposit, not a replacement.
• Landlords can only ask for a pet deposit if you actually have a pet living in the unit.
• A pet deposit is meant to cover damage caused by the pet, not regular wear and tear.
• Landlords cannot charge a pet deposit for service animals required for accessibility.

All deposits—including pet deposits—must be held in trust by the landlord, and returned (less reasonable deductions) within a set period after the tenancy ends if there is no damage.

Relevant Legislation and Official Body

Pet deposit rules are set out under the Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories)¹. For concerns, disputes, or complaints, tenants and landlords may contact the Residential Tenancies Office of the Northwest Territories. This tribunal oversees disputes, deposits, and legal rental matters across the Territory.

Forms for Pet Deposits

Currently, the Northwest Territories does not require a special form solely for pet deposits. However, details about the pet, deposit amount, and any conditions should be clearly included in your written lease agreement. If you need to dispute a deposit deduction or recover your pet deposit, you may use official forms for dispute resolution with the Residential Tenancies Office, such as:

• Application to the Rental Officer (Form 1): Used if you need to challenge a deduction or non-return of your pet deposit. Available at the Residential Tenancies Office Forms and Information.

Example: If your landlord withholds part of the pet deposit due to alleged pet damage you disagree with, you would complete Form 1 and submit it to the Rental Officer with supporting evidence (like move-out inspection photos).

Security Deposits vs. Pet Deposits

Understanding the difference between standard security deposits and pet deposits can avoid confusion. For a deep dive on the subject—including walk-throughs, deposit limits, and return timelines—see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Returning Your Pet Deposit

• The pet deposit (like the security deposit) must be returned within 10 days after your tenancy ends unless there’s damage attributed to your pet.
• If there’s a dispute, you can file a claim with the Residential Tenancies Office for review.

The process for deposit returns, as well as what constitutes fair withholding, is also covered in How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

Other Tenant Rights and Issues

Besides pet deposits, it’s important to know the full range of tenant and landlord rights. For a broader look at local laws, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

Looking for rentals that welcome your furry friend? Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca to find the latest listings across the Territory and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Deposits

1. How much can my landlord charge for a pet deposit in the Northwest Territories?
   Landlords may charge up to 50% of one month’s rent as a pet deposit, in addition to any regular security deposit.
2. Is my landlord allowed to keep the pet deposit if there’s no damage?
   No, landlords must return the pet deposit within 10 days after the tenancy ends, unless there’s documented damage caused by your pet.
3. Are service animals covered by pet deposit rules?
   No, landlords cannot require a pet deposit for service animals.
4. What should be included in the lease about pets and deposits?
   The lease should state if a pet is allowed, the amount of the pet deposit, and any special rules or agreements about animals in the rental unit.
5. What can I do if my landlord withholds my pet deposit unfairly?
   You can file an Application to the Rental Officer (Form 1) with the Residential Tenancies Office for a decision.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tenants with Pets

• Landlords may charge a separate, capped pet deposit—never more than half a month’s rent.
• Service animals are always exempt from pet deposit requirements.
• If your pet does no damage, your pet deposit must be returned quickly after move-out.

Keep written agreements, document property condition, and understand your legal options to ensure a smooth experience renting with pets.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Office (Northwest Territories) – Pet deposit and tenancy dispute resolution
• Full text: Residential Tenancies Act (NWT)
• Northwest Territories Tenants’ Association – Tenant advocacy, information, and support
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories
• Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories) Read official legislation
2. Residential Tenancies Office of the Northwest Territories: View Tribunal

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