Landlord Rights and Limits in Northwest Territories Rentals

Are you renting in the Northwest Territories and wondering what your landlord is allowed to do? Understanding your rights and your landlord's obligations can make your rental experience safer and less stressful. This guide explains what landlords can and cannot do, specific rules under Northwest Territories law, and practical tips for tenants.

Key Rights and Restrictions for Landlords in Northwest Territories

Landlords in the Northwest Territories have certain legal rights, but their actions are also strictly regulated under the Residential Tenancies Act (NWT)^[1]. Below is an overview of major landlord obligations and limits:

• Entry to Your Rental: Landlords may only enter your unit for specific reasons (such as maintenance or inspection) and must give at least 24 hours written notice, except in emergencies.
• Repairs and Maintenance: It is the landlord’s responsibility to keep your rental safe and in good repair. Tenants should report any major issues immediately.
• Rent Increases: Rent can only be raised once per year, and you must get at least 3 months’ written notice. There are rules on how and when increases can take place.
• Deposits: Landlords can require security deposits, but there are limits on the amount and strict rules about returning them after you move out.
• Eviction: A landlord cannot evict without giving proper notice and following the process set by law. Certain reasons (such as unpaid rent or serious damage) are required.
• Privacy: Your home is your private space. Landlords cannot harass you, enter without notice (unless it’s an emergency), or restrict your regular use.

For a full overview of tenant and landlord rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

What Landlords Can Do

Your landlord can:

• Set rules for the building as long as they are reasonable and non-discriminatory.
• Collect a security deposit (up to one month’s rent) at the start of your tenancy.
• Enter your unit for agreed-upon repairs or inspections with proper notice (except in emergencies).
• Increase rent after giving legal written notice (once every 12 months).
• Evict for specific legal reasons, following the official process and notice periods.

Security Deposits Explained

Landlords can collect a deposit for future damages or unpaid rent, but there are legal limits and processes. To learn more, read Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

What Landlords Cannot Do

There are clear limits on landlord actions in the Northwest Territories:

• They cannot enter your home without proper written notice (except for emergencies).
• They cannot raise your rent more than once per year, or without 3 months’ notice.
• They cannot evict you without a valid reason (such as non-payment or substantial damage) and due process.
• They cannot shut off utilities, lock you out, or remove your property to force you to leave.
• They cannot discriminate based on race, ethnicity, family status, disability, or other protected grounds.

If you feel your rights are being violated, consider talking to your landlord first, then escalate your complaint as described below.

Filing a Complaint or Application: How the Process Works

If you have an issue your landlord won’t solve—such as not completing repairs or illegally entering your home—you can file an application with the Office of the Rentals Officer (NWT Rentals Officer). Here’s a brief summary:

• Try to solve the problem directly with your landlord first (keep a record of all communication).
• If needed, download Form 1: Application to the Rentals Officer from the official government site. This form is used to ask the Rentals Officer to resolve many tenancy disputes, like repairs or return of deposits.
• Fill out the form with a description of your complaint and attach any supporting documents (lease, emails, photos, etc.).
• Submit your application to the Rentals Officer by email, in person, or by mail. The Rentals Officer will review it and schedule a hearing if necessary.

This process is designed to be accessible for tenants without legal help. Keep detailed records for your own protection.

Repairs and Maintenance Issues

Landlords must keep your apartment safe and habitably maintained. If you’re facing a repair problem, see more about your rights and obligations in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Where to Get the Official Forms

• Form 1: Application to the Rentals Officer – Use this to ask for orders about disputes, repairs, deposits, and rent. Download here.
• Notice of Rent Increase – Your landlord must use this to provide 3 months’ written notice for any rent increase. View the official form.
• For a full list of tenancy forms: Official NWT Rentals Officer page.

For step-by-step action guidance, scroll down to our ‘How To’ section.

Your Health, Safety, and Privacy

Landlords are responsible for keeping your rental home safe and healthy. This means addressing hazardous conditions, pest infestations, and ensuring working heat, water, and smoke detectors. Serious risks, like exposed wiring or no heat in winter, are considered emergencies.

If you encounter serious health or safety problems, refer to Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for more information on your options.

If you are searching for a new rental, you can browse apartments for rent in Canada or learn more about your rights and responsibilities before signing a new tenancy agreement.

Frequently Asked Questions: Landlord Rights and Tenant Protections (NWT)

1. Can my landlord evict me without giving a reason?
   No. Your landlord must provide a valid reason such as non-payment of rent or damaging the unit, and must give you proper written notice. All evictions must follow the procedures in the Residential Tenancies Act (NWT).
2. How much notice is required for a landlord to enter my apartment?
   A landlord must give you at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your unit for most reasons, except emergencies like fire or flooding.
3. What should I do if my landlord refuses to fix something?
   Start by notifying them in writing and keeping records. If repairs aren’t made, you may file a complaint with the NWT Rentals Officer using Form 1.
4. How often can my landlord increase rent?
   Only once every twelve months, with a minimum of three months’ written notice, and using the proper Notice of Rent Increase form.
5. Where can I learn more about tenant and landlord rights in NWT?
   Visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories for comprehensive information.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for NWT Renters

• Landlords must follow strict legal rules for entry, rent increases, evictions, and repairs.
• Always get notice in writing and keep documentation for all rental issues.
• If issues arise, tenants can file a complaint with the Rentals Officer using official forms.

Being aware of what landlords can and cannot do helps you protect your rights and maintain a safe, fair rental experience in the Northwest Territories.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• NWT Office of the Rentals Officer: Official information, forms, and dispute resolution
• Residential Tenancies Act (NWT): The main law covering landlord-tenant rights in the territory
• NWT Housing Corporation – Tenant Relations: Support for tenants and access to government housing programs

---

1. Read the full Residential Tenancies Act (NWT)
2. Visit the Office of the Rentals Officer (NWT)
3. Official complaint and application forms: NWT Rentals Officer Forms

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy