How landlord references are created and used
Landlords often prepare references based on lease history, payment records, and notes about complaints or damage. After an eviction, information may include the reason for termination (for example, persistent non-payment or breach of lease), dates, and whether the landlord filed any official notices or applications with the territorial tenancy authority[1]. Screening services and future landlords may treat an eviction as a high-risk flag, but the exact wording and accuracy of a reference matter for future applications.
What landlords can and cannot say
- Landlords may record factual details such as unpaid rent amounts, dates of missed payments, and lease breaches.
- They must avoid false or defamatory statements; opinions should be clearly labeled as such and supported by records.
- References often do not include full case outcomes; tenants can request written details if a landlord provides a negative reference.
Steps tenants can take right after an eviction
- Collect all documents: rental agreements, proof of payments, receipts, and any written warnings or notices.
- Ask the landlord for a written reference or clarification of the eviction details so you know what future landlords will see.
- Contact local tenant support or legal aid to learn whether any information is inaccurate or disputable.
- If habitability or repair issues contributed to problems, save communications and repair requests as evidence.
Rebuilding your rental history and finding housing
When applying for new rentals after an eviction, offer alternative verification: letters of reference from employers, character references, proof of steady income, or evidence you paid arrears. You can also explain briefly and honestly in applications what happened and what steps you took to resolve the issue. For more on common tenancy problems and how to resolve them, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them. When preparing to move, additional practical moving guidance is available in Moving Out Tips: A Tenant''s Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.
To search for available rentals quickly while you rebuild references, consider using a national listings site to broaden your options: Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
FAQ
- Can an eviction permanently stop me from renting in the Northwest Territories?
- An eviction makes renting more difficult but not necessarily impossible; many landlords consider the whole application package, including references you supply and evidence of changed circumstances.
- How can I dispute incorrect information in a reference?
- Gather proof (receipts, emails, lease copies) and ask the landlord to correct the record; if unresolved, contact the territorial tenancy office or the official tribunal for dispute processes[2].
- What documents are most useful to landlords when I apply again?
- Provide pay stubs, bank statements showing regular payments, letters from employers, character references, and any proof you resolved past arrears.
How-To
- Gather documents: collect leases, receipts, text/email records, and any notices related to the eviction.
- Request a written reference: politely ask your former landlord for a clear, factual reference or correction of any inaccurate details.
- File a dispute if needed: submit an application to the territorial tenancy authority or tribunal if the reference includes false statements or procedural errors.
- Prepare alternative references: get employer letters, proof of income, and character references to include with rental applications.
- Apply broadly and explain: submit applications to multiple landlords, attach your documentation, and offer a short, factual explanation of the eviction and steps taken since.
- Seek local help: contact tenant services or legal aid for assistance with disputes, form filing, or advice about next steps.
Help and Support / Resources
- Government of the Northwest Territories: Department of Justice
- Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories)
- Legal Aid (Northwest Territories)
