Safety Rules for Portable Heaters and Generators in NWT

Tenants and renters in the Northwest Territories may rely on portable heaters or backup generators during extreme cold or power outages. This guide explains practical safety steps, what to document, and when to involve your landlord or the territorial tenancy office. It covers safe placement, ventilation, carbon monoxide and smoke alarm checks, fuel storage, and basic electrical precautions, plus tenant-focused examples of when to use official forms and how to keep records if repairs or emergency heating are delayed. If you rent, these tips help protect your health, preserve your rights, and make it easier to resolve disputes if your unit becomes unsafe.

Staying safe with portable heaters

Portable heaters can be lifesaving in cold weather but create fire and carbon monoxide risks when misused. Follow clear rules, keep documentation and notify your landlord promptly in writing if building heat is unreliable.

• Keep portable heaters on a stable, level surface and away from trip hazards.
• Maintain a clear safety zone of at least one metre from curtains, furniture and paper.
• Use heaters with tip-over and overheat protection and follow manufacturer maintenance instructions.
• Install and test carbon monoxide and smoke alarms; tenants should check detectors monthly.
• Never use unvented fuel-burning heaters indoors; choose appliances rated for indoor use.

Generator safety basics

Portable generators are useful during outages but pose carbon monoxide, fire and electrical hazards. Only use generators outdoors on level ground and keep them well away from windows, doors and vents so exhaust cannot enter living spaces.

• Never run a generator indoors or in attached garages; exhaust contains carbon monoxide.
• Place generators outdoors, downhill and away from doors, windows and fresh air intakes.
• Refuel only when the generator is cool and store fuel in approved containers away from the unit.
• Use proper cords and transfer switches; do not backfeed into building wiring or plug into household outlets.

When building heat or utilities fail: tenant steps

If central heat or hot water fails, notify your landlord in writing immediately, keep copies of messages and photos, and include dates and time. If the landlord does not respond or cannot complete timely repairs, follow the territorial complaint process and use the appropriate tenancy application to request orders or remedies from the Residential Tenancies Office^[1]. For practical guidance on documenting health or safety problems, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Common forms and when to use them

Typical tenant-focused forms and actions include a written notice to the landlord describing the problem, and an application to the Residential Tenancies Office to request an order if the landlord fails to act. Example: if the building heat is off for multiple days in extreme cold and the landlord does not respond within reasonable time, submit an application asking the tribunal for an order requiring repairs or temporary alternative accommodations^[2]. You should attach your dated photos and copies of written notices as evidence.

For emergency situations and step-by-step guidance on repairs and rights, consult Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

FAQ

Can I use a portable heater if building heat is inadequate?

You can use a portable heater if it is rated for indoor use and you follow safety rules; also notify your landlord in writing because unsafe or inadequate heat may be a repair issue the landlord must fix.

What if I or others feel sick from fumes or cold?

If you suspect carbon monoxide or dangerous cold, leave the unit immediately, seek medical help if needed, and call emergency services; then document events and alert your landlord in writing.

How do I apply to the territorial tenancy office for urgent repairs or heating?

File the residential tenancy application or complaint form with the Residential Tenancies Office and include photos, written notices and a timeline; the office can schedule hearings or orders to resolve urgent issues^[1].

How-To

1. Document the problem: take photos, note dates/times, and save communication with your landlord.
2. Notify your landlord in writing describing the heater or generator hazard and request immediate action.
3. If the landlord does not respond, prepare and submit an application to the Residential Tenancies Office with your evidence.
4. Seek help from local emergency services for health or life safety concerns, and consider contacting tenant support services for advice.

Help and Support / Resources

• Residential Tenancies Office, Government of the Northwest Territories
• Department of Health and Social Services, Government of the Northwest Territories
• Community and Safety Services, Government of the Northwest Territories

1. [1] Government of the Northwest Territories - Residential Tenancies Office
2. [2] CanLII - Northwest Territories legislation and regulations
3. [3] Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety - Portable generators