What a boil-water advisory means for tenants
A boil-water advisory warns that tap water may be unsafe to drink or use for food preparation. Follow public health directions: often this means boiling water for one minute or using bottled water until the advisory is lifted. Local health authorities post advisory details and safe-use instructions for affected communities.[1]
Tenant rights and landlord responsibilities
Tenants have the right to a safe and habitable rental unit. Landlords are generally responsible for maintaining safe water supply and taking reasonable steps to restore safe service during advisories. If your landlord cannot restore safe water promptly, they should offer temporary remedies such as bottled water or safe water delivery and communicate steps in writing. For official guidance and dispute processes, contact the Residential Tenancies Office for the Northwest Territories.[2]
- Landlords must arrange repairs and ensure water is safe for basic needs.
- Landlords should provide written notice explaining what they are doing and any temporary measures.
- Keep records of communications, photos, and receipts for bottled water or repair costs.
- If issues persist, tenants can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for dispute resolution.
Health precautions and immediate actions
Follow public-health steps: boiling water when instructed, using bottled water, and avoiding ice made from tap water. If anyone is ill, seek medical advice and tell health staff about the water advisory. For general rental health and safety guidance, review resources on tenant health responsibilities and hazard prevention linked below.
For broader tenant-focused safety guidance see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
How to request repairs and official forms
If water is unsafe, tell your landlord in writing and ask for specific remedies (bottled water, filters, or repairs) and timelines. If the landlord does not act, you may need to use official forms or file an application with the Residential Tenancies Office. Typical documents available from the office include application forms for dispute resolution and guidance on evidence submission.[2]
- Application for dispute resolution (official form): use this to ask the tenancy office to order repairs, compensation, or temporary remedies when the landlord does not act. Example: you pay for bottled water and apply for reimbursement and an order to fix the supply.
- Notice or request for repair (if provided locally): use this to give the landlord a formal chance to fix the issue and record the date you asked for repairs.
When you file, include evidence: dates, photos, receipts for purchased water, and copies of written requests to the landlord. For practical repair steps and emergency rights, see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.
Practical tips while the advisory is active
- Keep a dated log of calls, messages, photos, and receipts related to the advisory and any costs you incur.
- Communicate with your landlord in writing and request a written plan and timeline for repairs or temporary water supplies.
- Save receipts for bottled water or cleaning supplies to support a compensation claim if appropriate.
If you need temporary accommodation while repairs happen, consider short-term listings. Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme may help locate nearby alternatives quickly.
FAQ
- Who enforces tenancy rules in the Northwest Territories?
- The Residential Tenancies Office enforces tenancy rules and handles dispute applications related to habitability, repairs, and compensation.[2]
- Can I withhold rent during a boil-water advisory?
- Withholding rent is risky. Instead, document the problem, request repairs in writing, keep receipts for expenses, and seek an order from the Residential Tenancies Office if the landlord does not act.
- Will I be reimbursed for bottled water I buy?
- You may claim reasonable costs if the landlord is responsible and refuses to provide remedies; keep all receipts and file an application with the tenancy office for compensation.
- Where can I get official public-health guidance about boil-water advisories?
- Local public-health units and the Government of the Northwest Territories post advisory details and safe-use instructions. Follow those instructions and contact your health provider if anyone is sick.[1]
How-To
- Within hours: follow public-health instructions—boil water as directed or use bottled water for drinking and food preparation.
- Document everything: take dated photos, save receipts for bottled water and supplies, and keep written records of communications.
- Contact your landlord immediately in writing, describe the issue, request specific temporary measures, and set a reasonable deadline for action.
- File an application with the Residential Tenancies Office if the landlord fails to act within the stated timeframe; include evidence and a clear remedy request.
- Move to temporary accommodation if health or safety requires it and you cannot get a timely remedy; keep proof of costs for a possible claim.
- Follow up with public health for medical concerns and with the tenancy office for dispute resolution until the matter is resolved.
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] Government of the Northwest Territories: Boil-water advisories
- [2] Residential Tenancies Office (Northwest Territories)
- [3] Government of Canada: Boil-water advisories guidance
