Facing discrimination in your rental housing can be stressful, especially if you share accommodations or have roommates. In the Northwest Territories, you are protected from discrimination by law—and there is a formal process for filing a human rights complaint if you believe your rights have been violated. This guide explains the steps to file a complaint, provides context for shared housing, introduces you to key forms, and directs you to supportive resources in the territory.
Understanding Tenant Rights and Discrimination in Northwest Territories
As a tenant—including those living with roommates or in shared housing—you have the right to be free from discrimination. The Northwest Territories Human Rights Act protects people from unfair treatment based on race, colour, ancestry, nationality, religion, age, disability, sex (including gender identity), sexual orientation, family status, marital status, and more[1]. Discrimination can occur at any stage: applying for a rental, living in a unit, or renewing a lease.
- Common examples include being refused a rental unit, harassed by a landlord or roommate, or evicted because of protected characteristics.
- Both landlords and other tenants/roommates must respect your rights.
For a full overview of local tenancy rights and responsibilities, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.
Which Tribunal Handles Tenant Human Rights Complaints?
Human rights complaints in the Northwest Territories are processed by the Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission. This body applies the Human Rights Act in rental housing situations, regardless of whether you rent the entire unit or a room.
What Counts as a Human Rights Violation?
Discrimination may involve:
- Being denied accommodation because of your race, age, or family status
- Receiving different rental terms (such as higher rent or extra rules) due to a protected characteristic
- Harassment or hostile environment created by a landlord, property manager, or roommate
It is important to document what happened and try to resolve the issue first, when safe to do so.
How to File a Human Rights Complaint
If you think you've experienced discrimination as a tenant, you can apply to the NWT Human Rights Commission. Here are the steps:
- Contact the Commission for guidance before filing a complaint, if possible. They can clarify your rights and explain if your situation applies.
- Complete the Complaint Form (available online or by contacting the Commission).
- Provide all relevant evidence (written records, messages, witness statements, or rental agreements).
- Submit the form in person, by email, by fax, or by mail to the Commission.
- The Commission may mediate the situation, investigate, or refer it for a hearing.
Official Forms: What to Use and How
- Complaint Form (Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission)
When to Use: If you believe you've experienced discrimination in rental housing.
How It Works: Download from the Commission website, fill in details about what happened, attach supporting documents, and submit it. For example, if your roommate refuses to allow a service animal, cite what happened and when. - Withdrawal of Complaint Form
When to Use: If you change your mind after filing a complaint.
How It Works: Access it from the Commission if you wish to stop the complaint process.
For tenants facing ongoing issues related to maintenance, repairs, or disputes with landlords, our guide Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them may provide useful context.
What Happens After Filing?
The Commission will review your complaint and may:
- Request more information or clarification
- Attempt mediation between you and the other party
- Investigate further if mediation fails
- Refer the matter to a hearing, where a panel decides on remedies
Possible outcomes include apologies, policy changes, compensation, or corrective action. You have the right to participate in the process and present your case.
How the Human Rights Complaint Process Relates to Tenancy Law
The Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories) governs the landlord-tenant relationship, but human rights complaints are handled by the Commission, outside the tenancy board. However, if you face eviction or retaliation after making a human rights complaint, this may be an additional rights violation. Always document any such responses carefully.
For more about your rights and obligations as a tenant—including rules around shared accommodation, rent, deposits, and moving out—read Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
Additional Tenant Resources
- NWT Human Rights Commission Complaint Process Overview
- NWT Residential Tenancy Office – handles rental disputes and general tenant rights
- Northwest Territories Human Rights Act (full legislation)
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What types of discrimination are covered in the Northwest Territories?
Discrimination based on race, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability, family status, and other protected characteristics is illegal under the Human Rights Act. - Can I file a complaint if a roommate discriminates against me?
Yes. Even in shared housing, you are protected, and you may file a complaint against a roommate if they deny you equal treatment based on a protected ground. - Is there a time limit for filing a human rights complaint?
Yes. You should file within two years from when the discrimination occurred, but sooner is recommended. - Will making a complaint affect my tenancy?
Retaliation after a human rights complaint is also unlawful. Document any negative actions by your landlord or roommates after your complaint.
Key Takeaways for Tenants
- You have the right to a discrimination-free home, even in shared accommodations.
- The NWT Human Rights Commission provides a process and support for complaints.
- • File complaints promptly, keep records, and seek help if you’re unsure.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- NWT Human Rights Commission Contact Page (confidential inquiries welcome)
- NWT Residential Tenancy Office – for general tenancy and rental disputes
- Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories
[1] See Northwest Territories Human Rights Act: Protected Grounds and NWT Residential Tenancy Office for more information.
