Northwest Territories Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Explained

Are you renting a home in the Northwest Territories? Understanding your rights and responsibilities as a tenant is key to protecting yourself, enjoying a safe living environment, and handling any issues that arise. This guide covers deposits, rental agreements, repairs, rent increases, and where to get help, all based on current Northwest Territories law.

Key Laws and Who Oversees Rentals

In the Northwest Territories, residential renting is governed by the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA)[1]. The Rental Officer is the government authority who handles disputes, rent increases, evictions, and other tenancy matters.

Your Core Tenant Rights

  • Privacy: Your landlord must give 24 hours’ written notice before entering your rental, except in emergencies.
  • Safe, Habitable Unit: Your home must meet health, safety, and housing standards.
  • Proper Notice of Rent Increases or Eviction: You are entitled to written notice for changes to your rent or to terminate your lease.
  • Get Your Deposit Back: You can claim your security deposit (with interest) when you move out, unless you owe rent or have caused damage.

Your Core Responsibilities

  • Pay Rent on Time: Rent is due as stated in your rental agreement.
  • Care for the Unit: Keep the property reasonably clean and report repairs as soon as needed.
  • No Damage: Don’t cause damage or let others damage your home, beyond normal wear and tear.
  • Follow Rules and Laws: Respect building rules and don’t disturb your neighbours.

Security Deposits: Know Your Rights

Landlords can ask for a security deposit, but it cannot be more than the first month’s rent. This deposit is held in trust and must be returned to you (with interest) after you move out, provided you met your obligations.

For more in-depth information, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Essential Forms for Tenants

  • Application to the Rental Officer (Form RTO): Use this form to apply for dispute resolution, such as when your landlord does not return your deposit or if you dispute a rent increase.
    Example: If your landlord refuses to refund your deposit, file the Application to the Rental Officer along with details and any supporting documents.
    Official Rental Officer Forms

Understanding Your Rental Agreement

Your written or verbal rental agreement spells out the rules about rent, notice, and maintenance. After you sign the agreement:

  • Keep a copy for your records.
  • Know the rules for ending your tenancy (you cannot simply leave without notice).
  • Ask questions if anything is unclear or missing.

For practical advice on what happens after your rental agreement starts, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Maintenance, Repairs & Health and Safety

Your landlord must ensure the property is safe and meets all health standards. If repairs are needed:

  • Notify your landlord in writing as soon as possible.
  • If they do not respond, you may apply to the Rental Officer for help.

Common concerns include heating, plumbing, mould, pests, and basic structure. For an overview of crucial safety concerns, visit Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

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Rent Increases and Notices

Your landlord can only raise your rent once every 12 months and must give you at least three months’ written notice. If you believe a rent increase is unreasonable, you have the right to dispute it through the Rental Officer.

Ending Your Tenancy

Tenants on a month-to-month lease must give at least one full rental period (usually one month) of written notice. Always use proper forms and keep records for your security.

Before moving out, document the condition of your unit and ensure you submit your change-of-address to important services. This helps prevent future disputes.

Resolving Tenant-Landlord Disputes

If you and your landlord cannot resolve an issue informally, you can file an Application to the Rental Officer. Prepare all relevant evidence, such as emails, photos, receipts, and written notices.

Learn More About Tenancy Rights in the Territories

For more on local rules and comparisons, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

Prefer to search for new rental options? Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How much can my landlord charge for a security deposit?
    The maximum security deposit is equal to one month’s rent. The deposit must be held in trust and returned with interest after you move out unless deductions are justified.
  2. What do I do if my landlord doesn’t make necessary repairs?
    First, notify your landlord in writing. If they fail to fix the issue, file an application with the Rental Officer along with your supporting evidence.
  3. How much notice must my landlord give before entering my home?
    Your landlord must give 24 hours’ written notice, except in emergencies.
  4. Can my landlord increase my rent at any time?
    No. Rent increases are only allowed once every 12 months with at least three months’ written notice.
  5. What notice should I give when moving out?
    If you rent month-to-month, you must give your landlord at least one full rental period’s written notice, unless your agreement states otherwise.

How To: Take Action on Your Tenancy in Northwest Territories

  1. How to file a complaint with the Rental Officer
    Complete the Application to the Rental Officer form, attach all documentation, and submit it to the Territorial Court in your area. Detailed instructions are available on the Rental Officer’s website.
  2. How to get your security deposit back
    Request your deposit in writing after you move out, include your forwarding address, and allow your landlord up to 10 days to respond. File an application if not returned.
  3. How to dispute a rent increase
    Within 10 days of receiving the notice, file an application with the Rental Officer stating your reasons for disputing the increase and submitting relevant evidence.

Key Takeaways

  • Know your rights and obligations under the Northwest Territories Residential Tenancies Act.
  • Always use written communication and keep copies for your records.
  • The Rental Officer is your resource for resolving disputes or seeking clarification.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants


  1. Residential Tenancies Act (NWT): Read the full act here.
  2. Rental Officer, Government of Northwest Territories: Official NWT Rental Officer page.
  3. Find provincial fact sheets: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.