Eviction Laws for Tenants in the Northwest Territories: Your Guide

Facing eviction can be stressful, especially if you’re unsure of your rights or what steps to take next. In the Northwest Territories, eviction laws aim to balance the rights and responsibilities of both tenants and landlords. This guide explains how eviction works for tenants under the latest territorial rules, the notice periods you must receive, and what you can do if you disagree with your landlord’s decision.

Who Oversees Rental Evictions in the Northwest Territories?

The Rental Officer’s Office is the official tribunal that handles residential tenancy disputes, including evictions. The key law is the Residential Tenancies Act (NWT)^[1].

When Can a Landlord Evict You?

Landlords can only evict tenants for specific reasons under the Residential Tenancies Act. Common legal reasons include:

• Unpaid rent
• Repeated late rent payments
• Damaging the rental property
• Serious interference with others’ enjoyment or safety
• The landlord or their family needs the unit for personal use
• Major renovations or demolition

Except for rare emergencies, eviction must follow specific procedures designed to protect tenant rights. For a broader look at your rights and responsibilities, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

Eviction Notice Types and Minimum Notice Periods

Written notice must always be served. The type and length of notice depend on the reason:

• For Unpaid Rent: Landlord can issue a 14-day Notice to Terminate if rent is more than 10 days overdue.
• For Cause (like damage or serious interference): 14-day notice is required.
• No Fault (e.g. landlord needs unit): A 3-month notice (90 days) is usually mandatory.

If the notice does not clearly state the reason or required period, it may not be valid. All notices must be in writing and delivered correctly (handed to you, posted on your door, or sent by mail).

Common Official Forms for Tenants

• Notice to Terminate Tenancy: Used by landlords to start the eviction process. Always ask for a copy, and check that it states the correct reason and notice period.
• Tenant Application to Rental Officer (Form 16): If you disagree with the eviction, use Form 16 to ask the Rental Officer to review or stop it. Download Form 16 here.
• Application to Set Aside Termination (Form 19): If you paid all overdue rent within 10 days of getting a termination notice for non-payment, use Form 19 to stop the eviction. Download Form 19 here.

Example: If your landlord gives you a 14-day notice for unpaid rent, but you pay all owed rent within 10 days, you can use Form 19 to stop the eviction.

What to Do If You Receive an Eviction Notice

• Read the notice carefully. Check the reason and the date you have to move out.
• Gather documentation. Keep your payment receipts, communication with the landlord, and the notice itself.
• Consider your Obligations of Landlords and Tenants to make sure you've met your responsibilities.
• If you believe the notice is unfair or incorrect, complete and file the appropriate form (such as Form 16 or Form 19) quickly.
• Contact the Rental Officer if you need clarification or help.

If You Need to Challenge the Eviction

You have the right to a hearing with the Rental Officer. File your form as soon as possible, attach supporting documents, and be prepared to explain your side. The Rental Officer will review both parties’ explanations and make a decision. If urgent repairs or unsafe conditions are causing issues in your rental, you also have options—read Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

Moving Out After an Eviction

If the Rental Officer upholds the eviction and you must leave, you are responsible for moving out by the stated deadline. Take photos of the property’s condition, return your keys, and provide your forwarding address for your deposit return. For helpful advice when leaving your rental, see Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

When you’re ready to search for your next place, Browse apartments for rent in Canada to find your ideal home.

FAQ: Tenant Questions About Eviction in Northwest Territories

1. What happens if I ignore an eviction notice?
   If you do not take action or move out by the deadline, your landlord can apply to the Rental Officer for an order to remove you. This may include a hearing. You could face additional costs or complications.
2. Can my landlord evict me without written notice?
   No. A written notice with the correct reason and period is always required by law.
3. How much time do I have to move if I’m evicted for unpaid rent?
   Usually, you have 14 days, but if you pay what you owe within 10 days, you can often stop the eviction by using the correct form.
4. Is eviction possible for reasons not related to rent, like renovations?
   Yes. In the case of major renovations or if the landlord or their family needs the unit, you must get at least 3 months’ written notice.
5. What can I do if I believe I’m being evicted unfairly?
   File a Form 16 with the Rental Officer, attach evidence, and ask for a hearing.

How-To: Steps to Respond to an Eviction Notice in NWT

1. How do I file a response to an eviction notice?
   Obtain Form 16 (Tenant Application to Rental Officer) from the official website, fill it out, and submit it within the notice period. Attach all supporting documents.
2. What should I do if I pay my overdue rent after getting an eviction notice?
   If still within 10 days, pay the full amount and submit Form 19 (Application to Set Aside Termination) to stop the eviction process.
3. How can I contact the Rental Officer?
   Visit the Rental Officer’s Office website for contact information and office hours.
4. What documents should I gather if I challenge an eviction?
   Collect your lease, rent receipts, photos, written communications, and the eviction notice itself to support your case.

Key Takeaways

• Eviction laws in the Northwest Territories require written notice and valid reasons.
• Always act quickly—respond or apply for a review if you wish to challenge an eviction.
• The Rental Officer’s Office is your main resource for disputes and official forms.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• NWT Rental Officer’s Office – forms, contact, and guidance
• Residential Tenancies Act (NWT) – full legislation
• Community Legal Clinics – offer free tenant support in many regions
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories

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1. NWT Residential Tenancies Act: Read the official law here
2. Rental Officer’s Office, Government of Northwest Territories: View official forms and resources

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