Living in a rental with mold or pests can be stressful and affect your health. If you rent in the Northwest Territories, you have steps you can take to protect your rights and safety, including documenting problems, requesting repairs in writing, and using official complaint processes when landlords do not act. This guide explains tenant responsibilities and landlord obligations, what evidence to collect, how to use forms and file with the Residential Tenancies Office, and where to get health and housing support. The information is written for tenants and renters who want practical, clear actions they can take to resolve mold or pest issues safely and fairly in the Northwest Territories.
Tenant and landlord responsibilities
Both tenants and landlords share duties. Landlords must provide and maintain a rental unit that is safe and habitable; tenants must take reasonable care to avoid causing damage and follow lease terms. For mold and pest problems, this usually means landlords must address underlying issues like leaks, ventilation and structural defects, while tenants should keep units reasonably clean, report problems promptly, and allow lawful access for repairs.
Practical steps tenants should take
- Document the problem with dated photos, videos and a written log including smells, visible mold or pest sightings.
- Submit a written repair request to your landlord describing the issue, the date, and the action you want taken; keep a copy.
- Allow inspections or repairs when the landlord gives proper notice, but request identification and a written description of work to be done.
- Use temporary measures if safe, such as dehumidifiers for mold or traps for pests, and keep receipts for any agreed expenses.
When to contact the Residential Tenancies Office and official steps
If the landlord does not act within a reasonable time after your written request, you can file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Office and, if needed, apply under the relevant tenancy legislation to request repairs or an order. See official guidance and forms for how to file and what evidence to include. The office that handles these disputes is the Residential Tenancies Office in the Northwest Territories[1], and the governing law is the Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories)[2]. For health-related advice about mold, Health Canada provides practical information on exposure and cleanup[3].
Official forms and examples
Common official documents you may use include:
- Application to the Residential Tenancies Office (form name varies by territory) — used to start a formal complaint when repairs are not made; for example, file when a landlord has not fixed a persistent leak causing mold after a written request.
- Notice of Repair Request (if available) — a written record you give the landlord and keep a copy of, used to show you asked for action before filing with the tenancy office.
Make sure to include dates, copies of your written requests, and photos with each form. If a hearing is scheduled, bring originals and copies of all evidence and a concise timeline.
Related tenant resources
For practical tips about preventing and handling pests, see Dealing with Pests in Your Rental: Tenant Rights and Effective Solutions. For broader safety and health issues tenants should know, consult Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting. You can also search available rentals and neighbourhood options when considering relocation: Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
FAQ
- Who handles disputes about mold or pest infestations in the Northwest Territories?
- Complaints about repairs, mold or pests are handled by the Residential Tenancies Office under the Residential Tenancies Act; you can file an application if informal requests fail.
- Can I withhold rent if my unit has mold or pests?
- Withholding rent is risky and often not permitted; instead, document the problem, request repairs in writing, and use the tenancy office or tribunal process to seek an order for repairs or rent reduction.
- What evidence helps my case?
- Keep dated photos, videos, copies of written requests, receipts for any temporary fixes, and a log of health symptoms or sightings to support your application.
How-To
- Document the issue thoroughly with photos, videos and a dated log describing what you observed.
- Send a written repair request to your landlord and keep a copy and proof of delivery.
- Allow reasonable access for inspection and repairs when the landlord provides proper notice.
- If the landlord does not act, complete and file the appropriate application with the Residential Tenancies Office, attaching your documentation.
- Attend any scheduled hearing with your evidence, follow the decision, and, if ordered, ensure repairs are completed or follow up to enforce the order.
Key Takeaways
- Document mold and pest problems quickly with dated photos and written requests.
- Use written repair requests first, then file with the Residential Tenancies Office if needed.
- Seek official guidance and health resources when exposure or severe infestations pose risks.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Office (Government of the Northwest Territories)
- Northwest Territories Housing Corporation
- Health Canada: Mould and indoor air quality
