Family Size Discrimination in NWT Rentals: Legal Protection & Steps

If you rent your home in the Northwest Territories and believe a landlord is discriminating against you because of your family size, it's important to know that you have legal rights and protection. Provincial laws make it illegal for landlords to deny rental housing or treat tenants unfairly based on family status. This guide helps you understand your protections, what steps to take if you face discrimination, and where to find official help.

Can Landlords Discriminate Based on Family Size in the Northwest Territories?

Under the Northwest Territories Human Rights Act, landlords cannot refuse to rent, evict, or otherwise treat you negatively because of "family status." This includes having children, planning to have children, or the number of children living with you. The Residential Tenancies Act also requires landlords to treat all tenants fairly and prohibits discriminatory terms in rental agreements.^[1]

Examples of Family Size Discrimination

• Refusing to rent to families with children (e.g., "No kids allowed" policies)
• Setting an unusually low occupancy limit that excludes families
• Charging higher rent or deposits because of family size
• Providing less access to amenities for families with more children

What Are Your Rights as a Tenant?

You have the right to equal treatment in housing regardless of your family status. Landlords cannot ask questions about pregnancy, plans to have children, or the specific number or ages of your children (outside of standard occupancy concerns). For more details relevant to your area, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

Tribunal for Tenancy Disputes

Rental housing disputes in the Northwest Territories are addressed by the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO). The RTO resolves issues such as illegal discrimination, evictions, and general tenant-landlord disagreements.

How Can You Take Action If You Face Discrimination?

If a landlord discriminates against you because of family size, you have options:

• Raise your concern directly with the landlord (if safe to do so)
• File a complaint with the Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission
• Apply to the Residential Tenancies Office if the discrimination affects your rental agreement or housing stability

Official Complaint Forms and How to Use Them

• Human Rights Discrimination Complaint Form – Submit this to the NWT Human Rights Commission if you believe you have been denied housing, harassed, or treated unfairly due to your family size.
  
  • When to use: If a landlord refuses your application, treats your family differently, or posts discriminatory ads.
  • How to submit: Download the complaint form, fill it out with your details, and submit it to the Commission in-person, by mail, or electronically.
  • Example: A tenant with three children is denied an apartment because the landlord says "too many kids." The tenant can use this form to file a complaint.
• Application to the Residential Tenancies Office (Form 1: Application) – Used to resolve tenancy disputes, including lease termination due to discrimination.
  
  • When to use: If you are being evicted, denied basic services, or have your lease changed because of family size.
  • How to submit: Complete the Form 1: Application, then submit it to the RTO by following their filing instructions. Include any evidence, like messages from the landlord.
  • Example: A landlord tries to increase your rent or restrict access because your family "is too big." You may use this form to challenge such actions.

For tenants who want a smooth rental start or need tips after moving in, also see Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home.

Key Northwest Territories Laws Protecting Tenants

• Northwest Territories Human Rights Act – Prohibits discrimination in housing based on family status^[2]
• Residential Tenancies Act – Protects against unfair rental practices and ensures tenant rights^[1]

For a broader look at residential rental laws in the territory, check the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

Finding a Family-Friendly Home

Many families struggle to find rentals that accommodate their needs. Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings to browse available homes where you and your family will feel welcome.

FAQ: Family Size Discrimination for Tenants in the NWT

1. Is it legal for a landlord to set a maximum number of occupants?
   Landlords in the Northwest Territories can set reasonable occupancy limits, but these cannot be used to exclude families or discriminate based on family status.
2. Can a landlord charge higher rent or a separate deposit for children?
   No, increasing rent or requiring extra deposits based on having children or family size is not permitted under NWT law.
3. Where do I file a complaint if I've been discriminated against?
   You can file a complaint with the NWT Human Rights Commission for discrimination, or with the Residential Tenancies Office if it's a tenancy dispute.
4. What evidence should I collect if I plan to complain?
   Save emails, applications, text messages, advertisements, and any written or verbal statements that suggest discrimination due to family status.
5. Are there exceptions where a landlord can refuse families with children?
   Rarely. Only if the unit is designed for a single occupant (such as certain seniors' housing) and this is allowed by law, not preference. Consult the Human Rights Act for details.

Conclusion: Protecting Your Rental Rights

• Family size discrimination is illegal under NWT and Canadian human rights laws.
• Tenants can file formal complaints with the Human Rights Commission or the Residential Tenancies Office.
• Keep evidence of discrimination and seek advice promptly to protect your rights.

If you encounter unfair treatment, act quickly and know there are organizations ready to support you.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• NWT Human Rights Commission – File housing discrimination complaints and learn more about your rights
• Residential Tenancies Office – Resolve tenancy disputes through official forms and guidance
• NWT Rental Officer – Questions about tenancy laws
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories – Your go-to page for local rental rules and tenant tips

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, Northwest Territories. See: Full legislation text
2. Human Rights Act, Northwest Territories. See: Official Act

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