Can Landlords Refuse Tenants on Assistance in Northwest Territories?

Are you searching for a rental in Northwest Territories and worried that receiving government assistance could affect your chances? In today's tight rental market, it's common for tenants to wonder if landlords can legally decline applications due to income sources such as social assistance, disability benefits, or other government programs. This guide explains your rights, the law, and practical steps if you feel you've been treated unfairly.

Is It Legal for Landlords to Refuse Tenants on Assistance?

In the Northwest Territories, discriminating against rental applicants or tenants because they receive income support or other assistance is prohibited under the Human Rights Act (S.N.W.T. 2002, c. 18)[1]. The law protects tenants from discrimination based on "social condition," which includes being on public assistance, income support, or disability benefits.

This means landlords cannot refuse to rent to you solely because your income comes from:

• Income assistance or social assistance
• Disability or pension benefits
• Other government support programs

Landlords can ask about your ability to pay rent, but they cannot treat you differently due to the source of your income.

What Can a Landlord Consider During Application?

Landlords are allowed to request references and proof that you can pay rent (such as pay stubs, benefit statements, or reference letters). However, refusing your application strictly based on your participation in assistance programs is considered discrimination. Modern landlords should focus on your total income, not just where it comes from.

If you suspect your income source is being used against you, document all interactions and consider your next steps listed below.

What To Do If You Experience Discrimination

If you believe a landlord has rejected you because you receive government assistance, you have the right to take action under the Human Rights Act. The Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission is the official body responsible for handling these complaints. They will investigate and help resolve discrimination cases.

How to File a Complaint

• Document everything: Save text messages, emails, application forms, or any notes from conversations that show the reason for rejection.
• Submit a complaint: Use the official Discrimination Complaint Form. Full instructions, contact details, and support services are found on the Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission website[2].

Practical example: If a landlord emails you, stating, "We do not accept tenants on income support," attach this as evidence in your complaint to strengthen your case.

Relevant Forms and Where to Find Them

• Discrimination Complaint Form (NWT Human Rights Commission):
  Download here (PDF)
  When to use it: If you have been denied a rental or treated unfairly due to being on government assistance.
  How to use: Complete the details, describe the discrimination, and submit via mail, email, or in person to the Commission. The form includes a checklist and filing guide.

Tenant and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories

Your rights as a tenant—including those covering discrimination—are detailed under the Residential Tenancies Act[3]. For a complete overview of legal protections and obligations for tenants and landlords in NWT, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

After you sign a lease, your rights and responsibilities remain protected. For information on tenant obligations during tenancy and after move-in, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Finding a place to rent can be more accessible and stress-free by using Canada's best rental listings platform—Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

FAQ: Income Assistance and Rental Applications in NWT

1. Can a landlord ask me if I am on income assistance?
   Landlords can ask how you will pay rent but cannot discriminate or refuse you only because you receive assistance.
2. What can I do if I'm denied a rental due to my income source?
   You can file a complaint with the Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission using their official complaint form.
3. Is it harder to rent if I'm getting government assistance?
   Some landlords may be hesitant, but it is illegal to refuse you solely because of your income source. Make sure you provide sufficient documentation of your ability to pay rent.
4. Where can I find more about all my rights as a tenant in NWT?
   Visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories for a full overview.
5. Who do I contact if I need help applying for rentals or facing discrimination?
   Contact the Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission and explore tenant advocacy services listed in the resources below.

Conclusion: Key Tenant Takeaways

• It is illegal for landlords in NWT to reject you simply because you receive income or social assistance.
• If you experience discrimination, document the details and file a complaint with the Human Rights Commission.
• Your rights are protected throughout your tenancy. Always seek support if you believe your rights have been violated.

If you're ever unsure about your situation, consult the resources below or a tenant support agency for advice.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission: Official website, info@nwthumanrights.ca, 1-888-669-5575
• Residential Tenancies Office (NWT): Questions about landlord-tenant law, see NWT Residential Tenancies Office
• Tenant Advocacy Support: Local legal aid offices may assist with filling complaints or navigating the process
• More information: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories

---

1. Northwest Territories Human Rights Act, read the Human Rights Act [S.N.W.T. 2002, c. 18]
2. Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission, official complaints process
3. Northwest Territories Residential Tenancies Act, full Act text

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy