As a tenant in the Northwest Territories, knowing how to properly end your rental agreement and give your landlord the right amount of notice protects your rights and helps you avoid future disputes. Whether you're moving for work, upgrading your living space, or facing other personal circumstances, understanding the process ensures your tenancy ends smoothly and lawfully.
Understanding Notice Requirements for Ending Tenancy
The requirements for ending a tenancy are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act (NWT)[1]. The act lays out specific timelines and forms tenants must use to give notice correctly.
Types of Tenancy Agreements
- Periodic Tenancy (Month-to-Month): Tenancy continues until either tenant or landlord gives proper notice.
- Fixed-Term Tenancy (Lease): Ends automatically on the end date unless specified otherwise or renewed.
Notice requirements can vary based on your tenancy type. Read your rental agreement to confirm which applies to you.
How Much Notice Do You Need to Give?
- Monthly tenancy: At least 30 days' written notice before the end of a rental period.
- Weekly tenancy: Generally, at least 14 days' notice before the end of a rental week.
- Fixed-term tenancy: Can only end on the lease date unless your agreement or law allows early termination. If you want to leave early, discuss this with your landlord or see special exceptions below.
The notice period starts on the day your landlord receives your written notice—not when you send it.
The Official Form: Notice to Terminate Tenancy
To end your tenancy, you must use the official "Notice to Terminate Tenancy" form (NWT Form 6). Download it from the territorial government website.
- Form Name: Notice to Terminate Tenancy (Form 6)
- When to use: When you want to end your rental agreement and serve official notice as required by law.
- How to use: Fill in your information, dates, and deliver it in person or another approved method to your landlord. Keep a copy for your records.
For early termination due to special reasons (such as family violence), contact the Northwest Territories Residential Tenancies Office for guidance and additional forms.
Steps to End Tenancy Properly
- Review your rental agreement for details on notice and move-out requirements.
- Complete the official "Notice to Terminate Tenancy" form (Form 6).
- Serve the notice to your landlord in person or as required by law. Keep proof of service.
- Prepare to vacate the unit, ensure the rental is clean and free of damage, and remove all personal belongings.
- Attend the final inspection with your landlord to address any outstanding issues or claims.
- If owed, follow up about your security deposit and request it be returned in line with the law.
Planning a move? See our Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit for additional advice on moving day, cleaning, and checklists.
Special Circumstances: Discrimination & Accessibility
If you are ending your tenancy due to discrimination, accessibility barriers, or if you require a reasonable accommodation, you have additional protections. Reach out to the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) for confidential support, or contact the NWT Housing Corporation for guidance.
After Sending Notice: What Comes Next?
After you have given proper notice, you remain responsible for rent and care of the rental until your move-out date. Be sure to leave the unit in good condition. For details on your rights and responsibilities after notice is given, review What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.
For a comprehensive overview of landlord-tenant law, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.
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FAQ: Ending Tenancy in Northwest Territories
- How many days' notice do I have to give to end a monthly tenancy?
Tenants must provide at least 30 days' written notice before the end of a month. - What happens if I don't give proper written notice?
If you don't give required notice, you may owe additional rent or risk losing your security deposit. - Can I move out early if my unit is unsafe or there's discrimination?
In certain cases, such as family violence or health and safety risks, special rules may let you terminate early. Contact the Residential Tenancies Office for help. - What is the best way to deliver my notice to the landlord?
Serving the form in person and getting a signed receipt is safest. Other legal methods may include registered mail. - When will I get my security deposit back?
The landlord must return your deposit promptly after you move out—less any lawful deductions. See our How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out for more information.
Key Takeaways for Northwest Territories Tenants
- Always use the official form and serve notice on time to avoid issues.
- Know your rights around discrimination and accessibility. Seek help if needed.
- End your tenancy with care to protect your reputation and your deposit.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Residential Tenancies Office (RTO), Northwest Territories – Guidance, forms, and dispute resolution
- NWT Housing Corporation – Information and support
- For more on your rights, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories
- [1] Northwest Territories Residential Tenancies Act
