Do Tenants Have a Right to Internet in Northwest Territories?

Internet service is an essential part of daily life for many tenants in the Northwest Territories (NWT). Whether you work remotely, study, or need to stay connected with family, understanding your rights when it comes to internet access is important. This article explains what the law says about internet in rental units, covers landlord and tenant responsibilities, and provides practical steps for addressing connectivity concerns in the NWT.

Is Internet a Legal Requirement for Rentals in Northwest Territories?

Under the Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories), landlords are required to provide certain vital services, such as heat, running water, and electricity. However, this legislation does not include internet as a required service. Unless internet is specifically mentioned in your rental agreement, landlords are not legally required to provide internet access to tenants.

What Does This Mean for Tenants?

• If your lease states that internet is included, your landlord must provide and maintain that service.
• If internet is not listed in your rental agreement, you are typically responsible for arranging and paying for your own service.
• You can request that your landlord include internet in future agreements, especially in shared or all-inclusive rentals.

For a broader overview of tenant and landlord responsibilities in the Northwest Territories, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

Common Scenarios: Who Pays for Internet?

Internet access in rental properties usually falls into these scenarios:

• Internet Provided: Some rental units offer internet as a utility, included in the monthly rent. Confirm this in your lease.
• Internet Not Provided: Most tenants must arrange and pay for their own connection. In multi-unit buildings, you may be able to share existing infrastructure (with landlord permission).

Always check your rental agreement for any mention of internet or included utilities.

What If You Need Internet Installed?

Tenants may need to install internet if the unit lacks a connection or service. Here’s what to consider:

• Ask your landlord for permission before any significant installation, especially if running cables or drilling is required.
• Landlords generally cannot unreasonably refuse your request but can require you to restore the property at the end of your tenancy.
• Keep all communication in writing for your records.

Tip: Always get your landlord’s written consent before making any changes to the property.

Problems with Internet Promised in Your Lease

If your lease promises internet and it is not working or not provided, this could be a breach of your rental agreement. You can:

• Notify your landlord in writing and request the issue be fixed within a reasonable time.
• If unresolved, consider filing a complaint with the Office of the Rental Officer (the NWT’s residential tenancy tribunal).
• Refer to the section Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them for more solutions.

Official Forms for Tenants in NWT

• Tenant Application to Rental Officer (Form 2): Use this if your landlord is not fulfilling terms related to utilities (including promised internet) in your lease. Available from the NWT Department of Justice – Residential Tenancies Forms.
  Example: If your lease says internet is included but your landlord will not provide it, complete Form 2 and submit it to the Rental Officer.

Relevant Tribunal: The Rental Officer

Residential tenancy matters in the Northwest Territories are managed by the Office of the Rental Officer. They can help mediate disputes and issue binding decisions about rental agreements, including any disagreement about utilities or promised services.

What Does the Law Say?

The key law governing rentals in NWT is the Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories)¹. It lists vital services a landlord must provide—heat, water, and electricity—but does not mention internet.

Quick Tenant Tips

For more move-in tips, check Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home.

To find apartments where internet may be included, or to explore all options, Browse apartments for rent in Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions about Internet and Utilities in NWT Rentals

1. Is my landlord required by law to provide internet in my rental?
   No. Unless your rental agreement specifically states that internet is included, your landlord does not have a legal obligation under NWT law to provide internet.
2. Can I install my own internet if the unit doesn’t have it?
   Yes, but you should always seek your landlord’s written permission before making any changes to the property for installation.
3. What should I do if my lease says internet is included, but I don’t have access?
   Notify your landlord in writing and give a reasonable deadline to resolve the issue. If not resolved, consider applying to the Rental Officer using Form 2.
4. Are there rental laws about internet speeds or quality?
   No, NWT rental laws do not regulate internet speed or quality—only that any service promised in a lease must be provided as described.
5. Where can I get more information on my tenant rights in the territory?
   See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories for a detailed overview.

Summary: What Every Tenant Should Know

• Landlords in the NWT are not required by law to provide internet unless it’s in your rental agreement.
• If you need internet, check your lease and arrange installation with landlord approval.
• Disputes about internet included in your lease can be taken to the Office of the Rental Officer.

Understanding your agreement and maintaining open communication are keys to a smooth rental experience.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of the Rental Officer – Handles tenancy disputes and information in the Northwest Territories
• NWT Department of Justice – Residential Tenancies – Information for tenants and landlords
• Residential Tenancies Forms (NWT) – All official forms for tenants

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories)

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