Can Landlords Ban Pets in Rentals in Northwest Territories?

If you're a tenant in the Northwest Territories and you're a pet owner or considering adopting a pet, it's important to understand local rules about pets in rentals. Pet ownership can affect your housing options, and landlords often have specific policies. This article explains how pet restrictions work in the NWT, your legal rights, and the steps to take if you have concerns about pet policies in your rental home.

Pet Policies in the Northwest Territories: What Are the Rules?

Unlike some provinces, the Residential Tenancies Act (NWT)^[1] does not specifically prohibit landlords from banning pets. This means that landlords generally have the right to decide whether pets are allowed in their properties. Pet-related rules should be clearly outlined in your tenancy agreement (lease).

• Landlords can prohibit pets in the rental by stating it in the lease agreement.
• If the agreement is silent about pets, you may be allowed to have them, but it's best to get written confirmation before bringing a pet home.
• Service animals are generally exempt from "no pets" policies under federal human rights protections.

Be sure to carefully review any "no pets" clause before signing the rental agreement. If you already have a pet and the landlord adds a no-pet rule afterwards, it cannot be enforced against your existing pet unless both you and the landlord agree in writing.

Are "No Pet" Clauses Enforceable?

Yes. In the NWT, landlords have the legal authority to include enforceable "no pet" clauses in leases. Breaching a clear "no pets" rule may lead to warnings or even Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories action, including possible eviction in cases where pet-related issues cause damage or ongoing complaints.

What If I Need a Service or Support Animal?

Service animals are different from pets. The NWT Human Rights Act protects people with disabilities, meaning landlords usually cannot refuse a qualified service animal, even if the building is otherwise pet-free. For emotional support animals, you’ll need proper documentation. If you face discrimination, tenants can file a complaint with the NWT Human Rights Commission.

Deposits, Inspections, and Tenant Responsibilities

Many landlords in the Northwest Territories require a refundable security deposit. If pets are allowed, landlords might request additional conditions in the lease related to property cleanliness or routine inspections. For full details on security deposits, visit Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Landlords must follow the rules of the NWT Residential Tenancies Office before entering your unit for inspections or to address pet-related issues.

Forms for NWT Tenants

• Application to the Rental Officer (Form 2) – Use this if you believe your landlord is unreasonably enforcing a pet ban or not accommodating a service animal. File it with the NWT Residential Tenancies Office. Download the form here.
• Complaint to the Human Rights Commission – If your request for a service or support animal is refused, file a complaint via the official complaints portal.

Example: If your landlord issues a notice demanding you remove your service animal, you can complete Form 2, outlining the situation, and submit it to the Residential Tenancies Office. If you require help, both tenant advocacy groups and the Tenancies Office can guide you through the process.

Common Issues: Damage and Complaints with Pets

Landlords may address pet-related concerns like damage or excessive noise under the regular terms of your lease. Tenants are responsible for any damage caused by their pets. If you disagree with a damage claim or pet-related complaint, review your lease and communicate in writing. For tips on resolving rental disputes, see How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant’s Guide.

Need a pet-friendly rental in the North or anywhere across the country? Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca and compare listings easily.

FAQs About Pet Restrictions in Northwest Territories Rentals

1. Can a landlord completely ban all pets in my unit?
   Yes. Unless the lease allows pets or certain accommodations apply, landlords may include and enforce "no pet" clauses.
2. What if my lease is silent about pets?
   If your lease doesn't mention pets, check with your landlord in writing before bringing in a pet. Unspoken approval can still lead to issues later.
3. Are service animals treated differently from pets in rental agreements?
   Yes. Service animals are generally protected by human rights laws, and landlords cannot refuse them in most situations.
4. Can my landlord charge a higher deposit for having a pet?
   Only the standard maximum security deposit is allowed under the Residential Tenancies Act. Separate "pet deposits" are not specified in the legislation, but any property damage caused by your pet may be deducted from your regular deposit.
5. Who handles disputes about pet bans or service animals?
   The NWT Residential Tenancies Office handles tenancy disputes. Human rights issues can be addressed through the NWT Human Rights Commission.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Landlords in the Northwest Territories can ban pets by including a "no pets" clause in the lease.
• Service animals are generally protected and cannot be refused without very good reason.
• Always get written approval for your pet and know your options for dispute resolution if issues arise.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• NWT Residential Tenancies Office: Official information, forms, and contact
• NWT Human Rights Commission: Support and complaint process for discrimination
• For general rights in NWT: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories

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1. ^[1] Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories)
2. ^[2] NWT Human Rights Commission

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