Landlord Must-Do's Before Tenant Moves In NWT

Landlords in the Northwest Territories must complete several important steps before a tenant moves in to protect both parties and meet legal requirements. This guide explains practical landlord must-dos that affect renters and tenants, including conducting a thorough move-in inspection, providing required tenancy forms, documenting the condition of the rental, and handling security deposits correctly. It also covers safety checks013 heating, plumbing, smoke alarms 013 and explains when to provide written notices and receipts. Tenants will benefit from understanding what to expect on move-in day, what documentation to request, and how to record any pre-existing damage. Clear communication and careful records reduce disputes and help both landlords and tenants start the tenancy on solid ground.

Before Move-In Checklist

Use this practical checklist to ensure the rental is safe, legal, and documented before handing over keys.

• Complete safety and code checks, fixing hazards like loose railings, exposed wiring, or missing window locks.
• Confirm heating, hot water, plumbing and ventilation are working and repair any defects.
• Prepare and have both parties sign the written tenancy agreement and provide a copy to the tenant.
• Collect any permitted security deposit, provide a written receipt, and follow local deposit rules.
• Complete a move-in condition inspection with dated notes and photos to document existing damage.
• Ensure keys and access arrangements are ready and document any key handover.
• Give tenants clear contact details for maintenance, emergency repairs and property management.

Official forms to prepare

The Government of the Northwest Territories provides official tenancy resources and forms landlords and tenants should use when starting a tenancy ^[3]. Common forms include:

• Notice to Terminate Tenancy 013 used when the landlord or tenant must end the tenancy and inform the other party; complete and serve according to timelines on the official form.
• Move-In Condition Report 013 document the units state with signatures and photos so both parties agree on pre-existing issues.
• Receipt for Security Deposit 013 provide a dated receipt when taking a deposit and record its amount and purpose.

For tenant-facing explanations on deposits and inspection expectations, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know and Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

What landlords should tell tenants on move-in day

• Explain who to contact for repairs and how emergency issues are handled.
• Review the move-in condition report together and ensure both parties sign a copy.
• Give the tenant signed copies of the tenancy agreement and receipts for any payments.
• Show how locks, heating controls, and major appliances work and note any limitations.

FAQ

What must a landlord provide before a tenant moves in?

A landlord must ensure the unit is safe and habitable, complete required repairs, provide the signed tenancy agreement and copies of any receipts or official forms, and document the units condition.

Can a landlord take a security deposit in the Northwest Territories?

Yes, landlords may take a security deposit if permitted by local rules; provide a dated written receipt and follow deposit handling and return rules as set out in official guidance and forms ^[3].

Who handles tenancy disputes and where can I get official help?

The Residential Tenancies Office handles disputes and official guidance in the Northwest Territories; contact them for filing a complaint or for forms and procedures ^[1].

How-To

1. Inspect the unit and fix any safety hazards before the tenant arrives.
2. Complete a move-in condition report with photos and have the tenant sign it during handover.
3. Provide the signed tenancy agreement and any mandatory notices or forms to the tenant at move-in.
4. Collect permitted deposits with a receipt and document where and how the deposit will be held.
5. Share emergency and repair contact information and explain how to request routine repairs.

Help and Support / Resources

• Residential Tenancies Office, Government of the Northwest Territories
• Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories)
• Official tenancy forms and guides (GNWT)

To browse rental listings outside of a specific tenancy action, tenants can also use a national search tool like Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to compare listings and neighbourhoods.

1. [1] Residential Tenancies Office, Government of the Northwest Territories
2. [2] Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories)
3. [3] Official tenancy forms and guides (GNWT)