Are Rental Application Fees Allowed in Northwest Territories?

Searching for a new rental home in the Northwest Territories? Many tenants wonder whether landlords can charge application fees before signing a lease. Understanding your rights around rental deposits and fees is essential to avoid unfair costs and ensure a smooth rental experience.

Rental Application Fees in Northwest Territories: Is It Legal?

In the Northwest Territories, landlords are not legally allowed to charge tenants a rental application fee. The law aims to protect tenants from unnecessary financial barriers when applying for housing.

• Rental application fee: A fee some landlords try to charge for reviewing your application, before a tenancy agreement is signed.
• Legal status: Under the Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories), landlords cannot require or accept any fee from a prospective tenant for processing, considering, or accepting a rental application.^[1]

This prohibits any upfront "screening" or "processing" fees outside of legal deposits (such as a security deposit).

What Fees Can a Landlord Charge?

While application fees are not allowed, landlords can ask for a security deposit once you've agreed to rent a unit. The security deposit helps cover potential damages or unpaid rent, not as a cost to apply.

• The deposit cannot exceed one month's rent.
• It must be held in a trust account until the tenancy ends.
• Landlords must give you a written receipt for any deposit.

If you want to know more about deposits and how to protect your money, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

How Does This Protect Tenants?

Outlawing application fees ensures equal access to housing and prevents landlords from profiting off the application process. Only legitimate deposits (like security deposits) are permitted—protecting your finances before you even move in.

What If You're Asked for an Application Fee?

If a landlord or agent in the Northwest Territories requests an application fee, you have the right to refuse and cite the Residential Tenancies Act. You can:

• Politely inform them that application fees are not allowed under the law.
• Contact the territorial dispute office if you feel pressured or have paid a fee.

Tip: Always ask for a receipt for any money paid to a landlord, especially for deposits.

The Tribunal for Tenant Rights

All residential tenancy disputes in Northwest Territories are managed by the Rental Office of the Northwest Territories. They enforce rental laws and resolve disputes between tenants and landlords about fees, deposits, and more.

Relevant Official Forms

• Application to Resolve a Dispute (Form RTB-1): Use this form if you believe your rights have been violated—such as being charged an illegal fee. Fill out and submit to the Rental Office.
  Download the Application to Resolve a Dispute form (RTB-1)
  Example: You paid a $50 application fee and your landlord won't return it. Use RTB-1 to request a hearing and seek reimbursement.

Your Additional Rights as a Tenant

Besides application fees, tenants in the Northwest Territories have rights and protections regarding rent, deposits, and the condition of their rental homes. To understand the full picture of what you’re entitled to, review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

Finding a rental within your budget and legal rights is easier with the right resources. Canada's best rental listings platform makes it simple to navigate your options across the country.

FAQ: Rental Application Fees in Northwest Territories

1. Can a landlord in Northwest Territories charge a rental application fee?
   No, it is unlawful for landlords to charge tenants any fee for processing rental applications.
2. Are there any legitimate fees before signing a lease?
   Landlords may only request a security deposit (maximum: one month's rent) after a rental agreement is reached—not before.
3. What if I already paid an application fee—can I get it back?
   Yes. You can ask the landlord for a refund, and if refused, file an Application to Resolve a Dispute (RTB-1) with the Rental Office.
4. What should I do if a landlord insists on an application fee?
   Politely inform them it is illegal. Refuse payment, and report the incident to the Rental Office if necessary.
5. Where can I learn more about other rental deposits?
   See Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know for a detailed guide.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Rental application fees are not legal in Northwest Territories.
• You may be asked for a security deposit only after you agree to rent a unit.
• Contact the Rental Office if your rights are not respected.

Remember: Always keep records and receipts of any deposits or payments you make.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Northwest Territories Rental Office (file disputes, learn your rights)
• Residential Tenancies Program (Department of Justice NWT)
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories
• For trusted listings and rentals: Canada's best rental listings platform

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories): Read the full legislation
2. Northwest Territories Rental Office: Tribunal official page
3. Application to Resolve a Dispute (RTB-1): Download official form (PDF)

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