Being told your building is condemned is stressful. If you rent in the Northwest Territories, you have rights and steps to protect your safety, housing, and finances. This guide explains emergency actions, how habitability rules work, what forms and deadlines matter, and how to get help from territorial authorities and tenant services. It covers when you can refuse to stay in an unsafe unit, when you may be eligible for rent reductions or relocation help, and how to document problems for hearings. If you face immediate danger, prioritize safety; this article then walks through practical tenant-focused actions, communication tips with your landlord, and where to find official NWT forms and dispute channels.
Immediate steps for safety and documentation
If inspectors or the municipality condemn your building, prioritize personal safety, then preserve evidence and notify the landlord in writing. If anyone is in immediate danger, call emergency services first. After safety is secured, document hazards with photos, dates and short notes; keep copies of every communication with the landlord and any official notices you receive.[2] For health-related habitability questions, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for common risks and when to call public health.
- Call 911 if there is immediate danger to life or a major hazard such as structural collapse.
- Contact your landlord or property manager in writing and request instructions and next steps.
- Document damage with photos, videos, and dated notes to preserve evidence for any future dispute.
- Keep records of any extra expenses you incur because of the condemnation, such as hotel bills or transport.
- Save the official condemnation or evacuation notice you receive from municipal or territorial authorities.
Legal rights and tenancy rules in the Northwest Territories
Tenants in NWT have protections under territorial tenancy rules; the legislation and the Residential Tenancies Office set processes for disputes, notices, and hearings.[1] If the unit is uninhabitable, you may be able to withhold consent to remain, seek a rent abatement, or apply for a hearing to resolve who must pay for repairs or relocation. For a quick overview of general tenant and landlord rights in this territory, consult Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.
- When you receive a formal notice from authorities, file it with your tenancy records and note the date you received it.
- If the landlord agrees to repairs, get the agreement in writing with clear timelines and responsibilities.
- If the landlord refuses to act, you can apply for a hearing with the Residential Tenancies Office to request orders for repairs, rent adjustments, or termination.
- If you need to vacate, keep all receipts for relocation costs and ask your landlord in writing about compensation or alternative accommodation.
Notices, forms and deadlines
Official forms and the timelines for filing are essential. Common steps include receiving an evacuation or condemnation notice from a municipal inspector and, if unresolved, applying to the Residential Tenancies Office for a hearing. Use the official application forms to start a dispute and follow the filing deadlines listed by the territorial office. Examples of tenant-focused forms include a hearing application to request orders about repairs or termination; these must be completed clearly and supported by your evidence and receipts.[2]
- Fill out the official application form to request a hearing, attach photos and receipts, and file by the deadline stated on the form.
- If the landlord serves a termination or eviction notice, note the deadline on the notice and seek guidance immediately.
FAQ
- What should I do immediately if my building is condemned?
- Ensure personal safety and call emergency services if needed, notify your landlord in writing, document the condition with photos and notes, and save any official notices you receive.
- Can I refuse to stay in my unit after a condemnation notice?
- Yes — if inspectors declare the unit unsafe you may refuse to stay; keep records and notify your landlord in writing about your decision and reasons.
- How do I get compensation or help with relocation?
- Start by asking your landlord in writing for relocation assistance; if they refuse, apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for a hearing and bring evidence of expenses and the official condemnation notice.
How-To
- Call emergency services if the situation endangers life or health.
- Document the condition: take time-stamped photos, videos, and short written notes.
- Notify your landlord in writing and request next steps and any proof of inspection.
- Obtain and complete the official application form for a tenancy hearing if the landlord will not resolve the issue.
- Collect and keep receipts for all extra expenses to support any claim for compensation or reimbursement.
- If you must move, use resources to find short-term housing and consider searching rentals; Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Office - filing, hearing info and forms
- Residential Tenancies Act (NWT) - legislation and official guidance
- Government of the Northwest Territories - housing supports and emergency assistance
