Eviction Over a Pet: Tenant Rights & Steps in Northwest Territories

If you’re a renter in Northwest Territories and facing eviction due to having a pet, it can feel overwhelming and stressful. Knowing your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories) and understanding the eviction process can help you respond calmly and protect your rental home. This guide explains what steps to take, the forms you might need, and how to seek help.

Can I Be Evicted for Having a Pet in Northwest Territories?

In the Northwest Territories, whether you can keep a pet depends on the wording of your rental agreement. Some rental agreements strictly prohibit pets, while others allow them or include specific rules. Eviction over a pet usually happens if you:

• Have a pet when your agreement clearly forbids it
• Your pet causes significant damage or disturbance
• You fail to meet the conditions set out (for example, cleaning up after your pet)

Landlords cannot change the pet policy mid-tenancy unless your lease allows for it, or both parties agree.

Understanding Your Rental Agreement and Rights

Always review your rental agreement for any pet clauses. These sections should outline the rules and any conditions regarding pets. If you're not sure about your obligations, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for a breakdown of common terms and what they mean for tenants.

If your agreement doesn’t mention pets, the landlord may have limited ability to evict solely because of your pet. However, if your animal causes property damage or impacts the health and safety of others, eviction could still be possible.

What Is the Legal Eviction Process for Pet Issues?

In Northwest Territories, landlords must follow the legal eviction process set out in the Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories)¹. They cannot evict you without providing a proper written notice. Typically, the steps are:

• Written notice from your landlord specifying the reason for eviction (such as having an unauthorized pet or pet-related damage)
• Timeframe to correct the issue (often 14 days for cause-based evictions)
• If unresolved, the landlord can apply to the Rental Officer of the Northwest Territories for an order of possession

If you believe the notice is unfair or incorrect, you have the right to contest it with the Rental Officer. This process is designed to be accessible to tenants.

Important Official Forms

• Application by Landlord (Form 1): Used by landlords to seek an order for eviction, including for pet-related breaches. You can request a copy from your landlord or the Rental Officer forms page.
• Application by Tenant (Form 2): If you wish to dispute the eviction, use Form 2 to apply for a hearing and explain your side. Download Application by Tenant (Form 2).
• Notice to Terminate (Form 3 & 4): Forms used to deliver formal eviction notices. If you receive one, read it carefully and note key dates.

Example: If you are given notice because your pet allegedly caused damage, you may submit Form 2 requesting a hearing to argue your pet is not responsible, or that you have fixed the issue.

How to Respond to an Eviction Notice Over a Pet

• Review the notice: Check for accuracy, deadlines, and reasons cited.
• Talk to your landlord: See if you can resolve the issue, such as removing the pet or fixing the damage.
• Document everything: Take photos of your home and pet, keep vet records, and save all correspondence.
• Submit the appropriate form (Form 2): If you wish to contest, file promptly with the Rental Officer and attend your scheduled hearing.

Summary of Tenant Rights in Northwest Territories

For a detailed summary of tenant and landlord responsibilities, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories. It covers eviction rules, health and safety, and dispute resolution processes that may also be relevant to your situation.

For help finding pet-friendly rentals, Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca.

FAQ: Pet-Related Eviction in Northwest Territories

1. What if my pet is an emotional support or service animal?
   Service animals are protected under human rights law. If your pet is a genuine support or service animal, provide documentation. In most cases, these animals cannot be grounds for eviction, but consult the Rental Officer for guidance.
2. Can my landlord ban pets if my lease is silent about them?
   If your lease does not mention pets, your landlord may not be able to evict you solely for having one, but they can act if your pet causes damage or disrupts others.
3. What happens if I receive a termination notice?
   You should carefully review the notice and consider applying to the Rental Officer (using Form 2) if you believe the eviction is unfair or incorrect. Attend the hearing to present your case.
4. Can a landlord require me to pay extra for having a pet?
   Landlords cannot require a special "pet deposit" under Northwest Territories law, but you are responsible for any damages caused by your pet.
5. How quickly must I respond to an eviction notice?
   Typically, you must respond within the specified timeframe on the notice, often 14 days. Submit your application as soon as possible to preserve your rights.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tenants Facing Pet-Related Eviction

• Know your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act and check your written agreement before taking action.
• The eviction process requires official notices and access to dispute resolution; you can apply to the Rental Officer for a hearing.
• Act quickly, keep all records, and seek help—resources are available for Northwest Territories tenants.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Rental Officer of the Northwest Territories – Handles all tenancy disputes and eviction hearings
• NWT Justice: Residential Tenancies – Forms, guides, and information for landlords and tenants
• Northwest Territories Housing Corporation – Housing assistance and support
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories – Factsheet on your main rights

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories) – Full text of the legislation
2. Rental Officer information and official forms – NWT Courts: Rental Officer
3. NWT Justice: Residential Tenancies – Official portal

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