Leases & Rental Agreements Checklist for NWT Tenants

Signing a lease or rental agreement is a big step for any tenant in the Northwest Territories. Knowing what to look for before you sign — and understanding your rights and responsibilities — will help you avoid unpleasant surprises during your tenancy. This checklist will walk you through the key details, documents, and action steps NWT tenants should know, according to local laws and the NWT Rental Office.

What Is a Lease or Rental Agreement?

A lease (also called a tenancy agreement) is a legal contract between you and your landlord that describes your rights, obligations, and the basic terms of your rental. In the Northwest Territories, most agreements are either written or verbal, though a written lease is highly recommended for your protection.

Key Documents and What to Check Before Signing

Before you sign, make sure to carefully review or discuss each of these points with your landlord:

• Names of all parties: Both tenant and landlord details should appear on the lease.
• Property address: The agreement must clearly state the rental unit address.
• Term: Does your lease have an end date (fixed-term), or is it month-to-month (periodic)?
• Rent amount and due date: Note exactly how much you’ll pay and on what day each month.
• Security deposit (damage deposit): NWT law limits this to one month’s rent. Clarify how and when it’s paid and under what conditions it can be withheld. See Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know for more details.
• Utilities and services: Specify which utilities are included (heat, electricity, water), and which, if any, you must pay separately.
• Other fees: Confirm if there are pet fees, parking charges, or other costs in writing.

Required Forms for NWT Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Agreement: This is the standard lease contract. Your landlord may use a custom one; there is no provincially mandated form, but all agreements must comply with the Residential Tenancies Act (NWT)^[1].
• Inspection Report: Both you and the landlord should complete a written inspection report at move-in and move-out. Use the official Incoming Inspection Report (Form 3) and Outgoing Inspection Report (Form 4). These help protect your deposit by documenting the condition of the property.
• Form 5 – Notice of Rent Increase: If your landlord raises your rent, they must give you written notice with 3 months’ advance notice on this form. View the form at NWT Rent Increase Notice (Form 5).

Carefully read any documents before signing, and do not hesitate to ask for time to review.

After Signing: Your Rights and Duties

Once your agreement is signed, both you and your landlord have obligations under the Residential Tenancies Act (NWT)^[1]. Typical tenant rights and responsibilities include:

• The right to quiet enjoyment of your home (privacy, no unreasonable entry)
• Paying rent on time and as agreed
• Keeping the property reasonably clean
• Not damaging the premises or allowing others to do so
• Reporting major repairs to your landlord promptly

For more information about what to expect after signing your lease, visit What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Inspection Reports: Protect Your Security Deposit

Both incoming and outgoing inspections are the tenant's opportunity to formally record the property's condition. Always request a copy of your inspection report and photos. If there is a disagreement on damages or deductions from your deposit later, these records are critical evidence.

Updates, Renewal, and Ending Your Lease

If you want to renew, end, or change your rental agreement, review your contract and follow the steps outlined in NWT's tenancy law. Tenants usually must provide at least 30 days’ written notice to end a month-to-month tenancy (Form 6 – Notice to Terminate Tenancy). Fixed-term leases normally end automatically on the listed expiry date unless both parties agree to renew.

For state-specific law and a summary of key tenant rights and landlord obligations, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

Where to Go for Help or to Resolve a Dispute

If there are issues, such as withheld deposits, illegal rent increases, or maintenance not completed, tenants can apply to the NWT Rental Office. This office hears tenant-landlord disputes, including deposit returns, rent, repairs, evictions, and other matters. Applications are available online and can be submitted in person, by mail, or email.

Your lease is the foundation of your tenancy. Reviewing each section thoroughly now can save you serious time and money later.

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FAQ for Northwest Territories Tenants

1. What if I didn’t get a written lease in the Northwest Territories?
   Verbal agreements are legal in NWT, but a written lease protects both you and your landlord. You still have rights and obligations under the law even if it’s only a handshake deal. Ask your landlord for a written lease; if they refuse, document your rental understanding in an email or letter for your own records.
2. How much deposit can a landlord require?
   By law, security/damage deposits in NWT cannot exceed one month’s rent. Only the landlord can hold this deposit (not an agent or third party).
3. What forms do I use if I want to move out?
   If you’re on a month-to-month lease, fill out the "Notice to Terminate Tenancy" (Form 6). If you’re on a fixed-term lease, check your agreement — it may end automatically at the agreed expiry date.
4. What do I do if my landlord won’t return my deposit?
   After move-out and inspection, your landlord must return your deposit within 10 days, less any lawful deductions. If you disagree with deductions or don’t get your deposit back, apply to the NWT Rental Office for dispute resolution.
5. Can my landlord change the lease terms midway through?
   No. Unless you both agree in writing, terms can’t change before the lease expires. For month-to-month leases, rent increases or rule changes require proper written notice (use Form 5 for rent increases).

How To: Complete Key Rental Forms in NWT

1. How do I complete an Incoming Inspection Report?
   Walk through the unit with your landlord before moving in, writing down the condition of each room. Take photos of any existing damage. Ensure both parties sign the report, and keep a copy for your records.
2. How do I give proper notice to move out?
   Download and fill out "Notice to Terminate Tenancy" (Form 6) from the NWT Rental Office site. Submit the signed notice to your landlord in person or by email at least 30 days before your intended last day.
3. How do I respond if I receive a Notice of Rent Increase?
   Carefully check if the landlord gave at least 3 months’ written notice using the official Form 5. If you believe the notice doesn’t follow NWT law, contact the NWT Rental Office for guidance.
4. How do I apply to the NWT Rental Office for a dispute?
   Download the relevant application form from the NWT Rental Office site. Complete it, attach supporting documents (photos, emails, inspection reports), and submit by mail, email, or in person for resolution.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Always review leases in full and ask for a written agreement.
• Use official NWT forms for notices, inspections, and disputes to protect your rights.
• Contact the NWT Rental Office when facing disputes you and your landlord cannot resolve.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Act (NWT) – Governing legislation
• NWT Rental Office – Official tribunal for disputes, forms, guidance
• Form 3 – Incoming Inspection Report (PDF)
• Form 4 – Outgoing Inspection Report (PDF)
• Form 5 – Notice of Rent Increase (PDF)
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories