Evacuation Assistance for Tenants with Disabilities in NWT

Tenants with disabilities in the Northwest Territories often face extra challenges during emergencies. This guide explains practical steps renters can take to prepare for an evacuation, how to request landlord or building assistance, and what emergency services and community supports can provide. You will learn how to create an accessible evacuation plan, document needs and medical equipment, register for Emergency Social Services, and communicate reasonable accommodation requests clearly. The information covers timelines, who to contact in the territory, and how to use official forms when seeking help or filing complaints. If youre renting, these plain-language steps will help you plan ahead, protect your health and belongings, and assert your rights during an evacuation.

Before an evacuation

Start planning early. Talk with your landlord or building manager about accessible exits, designated meeting points, and who will assist you during a drill or real evacuation. For hazards and building safety information see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting. Tell them about mobility, hearing, vision or medical needs and provide written instructions. Register for emergency supports in your community and ask about accessible shelter options.^[1] If you need temporary housing quickly, Browse apartments for rent in Canada.

• Within 72 hours: share your needs in writing with your landlord or building manager, including mobility and equipment needs.
• Keep copies of prescriptions, device serial numbers, medical notes and a current list of medications.
• Schedule a quick evacuation drill with a neighbour or building staff and agree on roles and meeting points.
• Pack an accessible evacuation bag with spare batteries, chargers, power adaptors and a written emergency plan.
• Prepare a short written accommodation request you can give to staff or emergency volunteers if needed.

During an evacuation

If an evacuation is ordered, follow directions from emergency responders and let them know about life-support equipment or mobility limitations. Your landlord or building staff should help with accessible exits and transport; ask for help calmly and show your written instructions. If a landlord refuses reasonable assistance or access to information, you can apply for a hearing with the territorial court or tenancy tribunal to seek an urgent order.^[2] The relevant rules for landlords and tenants are set out in the territory's tenancy legislation.^[3]

• Call your emergency contact and building manager to confirm your location and needs.
• Record names of responders and take photos of any damage or obstacles if it is safe to do so.
• Follow shelter staff guidance about accessibility services and any special transport options.

After an evacuation

After you return or are rehoused, document damages, costs and communications. Send your landlord written repair requests and keep copies. If urgent repairs are not completed, follow the formal process to request repairs or compensation. If you need temporary alternate housing or financial help, apply for Emergency Social Services and keep all receipts for a possible claim or hearing. See Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities for step-by-step guidance on repair requests and timelines.

• Keep photos, receipts, repair quotes and any medical invoices related to the evacuation.
• Send a dated written request to the landlord asking for repairs or replacement within the deadlines set in your tenancy rules.
• Apply to the Territorial Court or tenancy tribunal for an urgent hearing if the landlord does not act.

FAQ

Can my landlord refuse to help me evacuate?

Landlords must not discriminate and should provide reasonable assistance to tenants with disabilities; emergencies may require coordination with emergency services.

What should I do if my medical equipment needs power during an evacuation?

Tell responders and shelter staff immediately, list batteries and chargers in your bag, and request shelter accommodations or alternative power options.

How do I request a hearing if repairs or accommodations are not provided?

Keep written records, file the required form with the territorial court or tribunal, and ask for an urgent hearing; see the forms and tribunal guidance in Help and Support.

How-To

1. Identify two emergency contacts and tell them about your mobility or medical needs.
2. Assemble an evacuation bag with medications, chargers, copies of prescriptions and photo ID.
3. Write a short accommodation note to give to building staff and emergency volunteers.
4. Practice a simple evacuation drill with your neighbour or building staff within a month.
5. After an event, gather photos, receipts and dated messages to support any repair or compensation claims.

Help and Support / Resources

• Emergency Management, Government of the Northwest Territories
• Territorial Court of the Northwest Territories (tenancy hearings)
• Northwest Territories Housing Corporation

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1. [1] Government of the Northwest Territories Directorate of Emergency Management
2. [2] Territorial Court of the Northwest Territories
3. [3] Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories) - Justice NWT