Can You Remove an Eviction from Your Record in Northwest Territories?

Dealing with an eviction as a tenant in the Northwest Territories can be overwhelming. Many tenants worry about the long-term impact of an eviction on their record—especially when searching for a new rental home. This guide explains whether and how an eviction can be removed from your record, the relevant procedures and legislation, official resources, and additional steps you can take after an eviction.

Who Keeps Record of Evictions in Northwest Territories?

In the Northwest Territories, evictions and tenancy disputes are overseen by the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO). When an eviction is ordered, the decision is made through an official order or decision under the Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories)^[1].

Landlords and credit agencies may access records of such decisions if they are part of a public registry or through background screening processes.

Is There a "Tenant Record" or Database?

There is no official public "tenant database" in the Northwest Territories. However, if you have been subject to a formal eviction order, this may appear in:

• Records held by the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO)
• Credit reports and background checks (if debt is involved or if reported by landlords/collections)
• Private tenant screening services (depending on landlord participation)

It's important to understand that most future landlords are primarily concerned with formal RTO decisions or outstanding unpaid debts, rather than informal landlord references.

Can an Eviction Be Removed or Sealed in Northwest Territories?

Currently, there is no official process to remove or seal an eviction order from the RTO's records in the Northwest Territories. Once an order has been made, it remains as part of the official record. However, there are a few situations where you may challenge or clarify your record.

Situations Where a Record May Be Corrected or Challenged

• Appealing an Order: If you believe the eviction order was unfair or based on incorrect facts, you may file an appeal or request a review—but this must be done within the timelines set by the RTO.
• Proving Settlement: If you and the landlord reach an agreement post-eviction (for example, paying owed rent or settling damages), ask the landlord for written proof to show future landlords.
• Request a Letter of Explanation: You may ask the RTO for a record of proceedings or a letter confirming the result of your case, particularly if you were not found at fault.

While there is no universal "expungement" of eviction records, bringing documentation that shows you have resolved issues or paid any outstanding debts can help when searching for a new home.

Official Forms, Appeals, and Next Steps After Eviction

If you wish to challenge or clarify an eviction order, here are possible steps you can take:

1. Apply for Review or Appeal

• Form: Application for Review (No. 16) – Used to ask the RTO to review a previous order or decision. Application for Review (PDF)
• Submit this form as soon as possible after the order, following RTO instructions.
• Example: If you were unable to attend the hearing and have new evidence, you might request a review.

2. Confirm Payment or Settlement

• If you have paid all debts or reached a settlement, get written confirmation from the landlord and keep all receipts. This is helpful for future rental applications.

3. Check and Repair Your Credit (if needed)

• If your eviction included unpaid rent that was sent to collections, review your credit report for accuracy and take steps to resolve outstanding debts.

Tips for Moving On and Renting Again

• Prepare references from previous landlords (before the eviction) where possible.
• Show documentation that disputes have been settled.
• Be honest with future landlords if asked about your rental history.

For more details about your local rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

Related Resources on Tenant Rights and Moving Forward

• If you're preparing to move out post-eviction, see our guide on Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit for helpful steps and checklists.
• If you need information about deposit returns when moving out after eviction, read How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can a landlord see my eviction in the Northwest Territories?
   If your eviction involved an official order from the RTO, it may be visible in tenancy office records or referenced in landlord background checks.
2. How long does an eviction stay on my record?
   There is no formal "expiry date" for eviction records with the RTO in the Northwest Territories. Records remain, but future landlords mainly care about recent decisions or unresolved debts.
3. What if my eviction was unfair?
   If you believe your eviction was unjust, you can apply for a review using the Application for Review form (No. 16) promptly after the decision.
4. Will an eviction affect my credit score?
   Only if there are unpaid debts, and the landlord submits the matter to a collection agency—then it may impact your credit report.
5. What can I do if my eviction was a misunderstanding?
   Gather documents proving your side, seek a written settlement or correction, and ask the landlord to clarify the situation for future references.

Conclusion: What Tenants Should Remember

Here are the most important things to keep in mind about eviction records in the Northwest Territories:

• There is no official way to erase or "expunge" an eviction from the RTO's records—but you can provide context or appeal if you act quickly.
• Always keep all settlement documentation; it will help when searching for new rentals.
• Use available support and resources to understand your rights and next steps.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Office (RTO), Northwest Territories: Official forms, tenant services, and dispute resolution
• Department of Justice – Government of Northwest Territories: Legal information and tenant support
• Northwest Territories Tenant and Private Practice Clinic: Free or low-cost legal advice for tenants
• For provincial facts, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories)
2. Residential Tenancies Office (RTO)
3. Application for Review Form (No. 16)

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