Dealing with Pet and Smoke Complaints in Northwest Territories Rentals

Living in a rental home in the Northwest Territories sometimes means dealing with issues like noisy pets or secondhand smoke. Whether you have a pet, are sensitive to smoke, or are receiving complaints, it's important to understand your rights and the proper process for addressing these concerns. This overview is designed to help tenants navigate complaints related to pets or smoke while staying in compliance with the Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories).¹

Your Rights and Responsibilities

Both tenants and landlords share responsibility for maintaining a respectful community. As a tenant, you have the right to quiet enjoyment of your rental but also must avoid interfering with others' comfort, health, or safety. That includes managing pet noise, odors, and smoke if allowed by your rental agreement.

• Check your lease to see if pets or smoking are permitted.
• Ensure pets do not create excessive noise or damage.
• Refrain from allowing smoke (tobacco, cannabis) to drift into neighbouring units if the building is smoke-free.

For an in-depth look at rights and duties, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

How Neighbour Complaints Are Handled

If a neighbour raises concerns about pets or smoke, the process typically follows these steps:

• The neighbour notifies you or your landlord/property manager about the issue.
• Your landlord assesses whether the complaint breaches the terms of your rental agreement or the Residential Tenancies Act.
• If needed, the landlord gives you a written warning or asks for corrective action.

It is important to address any concerns promptly to avoid escalation or official warnings.

The Northwest Territories Rental Office and Dispute Resolution

Disagreements that cannot be resolved informally can be brought to the Northwest Territories Rental Office. This tribunal oversees landlord-tenant disputes and enforces the Residential Tenancies Act.

Key Forms for Tenants

• Tenant's Application (Form 2): Use this form if you wish to request an order or assert your rights (for example, if you believe a complaint is unjust or you are facing eviction).
  View Form 2 — Application.
  Example: If you receive a notice to remedy a complaint you disagree with, you can file this form to seek a resolution through the Rental Office.
• Landlord's Application (Form 1): If your landlord is seeking an eviction or penalty based on repeated complaints, this is the form they will typically file. You have the right to respond.
  See Form 1 — Application.

You will be notified if an application is filed and will have the opportunity to present your side during the hearing.

Practical Steps to Address and Prevent Complaints

• Openly communicate with neighbours and your landlord about any issues raised.
• If you have a pet, ensure it is supervised and trained as required.
• Limit smoking indoors or near entrances—follow your lease and building policy.
• If you receive a complaint, respond in writing and describe any steps you’ve taken to resolve the problem.

For issues beyond your control or recurring disputes, How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant’s Guide can provide more tools and advice.

Health and Safety Considerations

In multi-unit buildings, smoke or uncontrolled pets may pose health, allergy, or safety risks. Tenants have the right to healthy living conditions. For more on these issues, visit Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Summary: Addressing Complaints in Northwest Territories

Knowing the proper channels for neighbour complaints and the rules under the Residential Tenancies Act makes the process smoother for everyone. Always review your lease, communicate clearly, and use official forms as needed. For additional details on your rights in this territory, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories. If searching for new or pet-friendly rentals, you can Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca for options across Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord evict me because a neighbour complained about my pet?
   Only if your pet causes repeated disturbances or breaches your rental agreement, and after you’ve been given the chance to resolve the issue. The landlord must follow the proper process defined under the Act.
2. What if I have a health issue affected by a neighbour's smoke?
   You should inform your landlord in writing and request intervention. Document incidents, as your landlord has a duty to ensure healthy living standards.
3. Who decides if a complaint is valid?
   If informal solutions don’t work, the Northwest Territories Rental Office will assess evidence and make a ruling if an application is filed by either party.
4. What should I do if I receive a formal warning?
   Respond promptly to your landlord, describe any steps you are taking, and keep records. Seek support from tenant advocacy resources if needed.
5. Does my landlord need proof before taking action on a complaint?
   Yes. Your landlord should have evidence to support any formal notices or applications about disturbances or non-compliance.

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

• Tenants and landlords both have responsibilities when it comes to pets and smoke in rental properties.
• Address complaints constructively and use official channels if informal solutions fail.
• The Northwest Territories Rental Office is the authoritative body for resolving disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Northwest Territories Rental Office – File a complaint, seek forms, and get information about tenancy law.
• Contact the Department of Justice: Tenants – Find helpful tenant guides and resources.
• For additional legal advice, connect with local tenant advocacy groups or legal aid services in your community.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories)

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