Post-Eviction Checklist for Northwest Territories Tenants

Facing eviction as a tenant in the Northwest Territories can be overwhelming. Whether your tenancy ended by notice, order, or mutual agreement, understanding your rights and the next essential steps is crucial. This guide provides a comprehensive checklist for tenants post-eviction, helping you recover deposits, collect your belongings, and access support resources specific to the Northwest Territories. With the right information and practical guidance, you can navigate this challenging time more confidently and protect your future rental prospects.

What To Do Right After Eviction

When an eviction happens—by order of the rental officer or after giving up the rental unit—you must act quickly to make arrangements regarding your possessions, the condition of the rental, outstanding deposits, and your housing situation. Below are the key points to follow after your tenancy ends:

1. Retrieve Your Personal Belongings

If you have been evicted, try to collect all your possessions as soon as possible. According to Northwest Territories tenancy law, landlords are required to store left-behind items for a minimum period, often 30 days.^[1] However, it’s best not to delay retrieval and to communicate in writing with the landlord about access dates.

2. Clean and Return the Unit

• Remove all garbage and personal items.
• Return keys to your landlord by the agreed date.
• Take dated photos or a short video to document the condition you left the unit in for your records.

3. Request Your Security Deposit Back

Landlords in the Northwest Territories must return your security deposit (minus any lawful deductions for damage or unpaid rent) within 10 days of the end of your tenancy or after you request it and provide a forwarding address. Provide your forwarding address in writing.

The landlord should also provide an itemized list of any deductions. If you believe deductions are unfair, notify your landlord in writing and, if unresolved, consider applying to the rental office.

4. Final Inspection

You have the right to request a final inspection with your landlord present. Doing this protects both sides from disputes over cleaning or damage claims. Not all landlords follow this step, but it is encouraged for documentation. See our guide: The Final Inspection: What Tenants Need to Know Before Moving Out.

5. Handling Outstanding Rent or Fees

• If you owe money after moving out, discuss payment arrangements to avoid collections.
• If you disagree with any claims, keep all correspondence in writing and note the reasons for your dispute.

Key Official Forms for Tenants

Below are important forms tenants may need after an eviction in the Northwest Territories:

• Application to the Rental Office (Form 1): Use this to apply for return of security deposit, dispute damages, or resolve other post-tenancy issues.
  Download and instructions: NWT Rental Office Forms
• Notice to Landlord – Forwarding Address: There’s no prescribed government form, but provide written notice of your new address for deposit return. Sample templates are available from local legal help agencies.

After submitting any form, keep a copy for your records and always send important correspondence by a verifiable method (e.g., email, registered mail).

Understanding Your Rights After Eviction

Tenant protections continue after the move-out date. Even if you were evicted, you are entitled to the return of a security deposit (minus legitimate deductions). If you believe your landlord has acted outside the Residential Tenancies Act, you may file a complaint with the Northwest Territories' Rental Office.^[2] For a full overview of your rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

6. Looking for a New Home

Securing your next home is usually the top priority after eviction. You can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for a wide selection across Northwest Territories and beyond.

Landlords may ask about your previous tenancy. Be honest and gather documentation (such as proof you left the unit in good condition and communications regarding the eviction) to demonstrate your reliability as a renter.

Accessing Tenant Support and Advocacy

Tenant support groups and government offices may help with finding emergency housing, legal advice, or mediation if there are disputes about your deposit or possessions. In urgent situations, contact local social services, legal aid, or the Rental Office.

Remember: The sooner you take action after moving out or being evicted—such as arranging to retrieve your belongings, securing a deposit refund, and seeking new accommodation—the smoother your transition will be.

FAQ: Post-Eviction Resources for NWT Tenants

1. How long does my landlord have to return my security deposit?
   In the Northwest Territories, landlords must return your security deposit (minus deductions) within 10 days of the end of your tenancy or from when you provide your forwarding address.
2. What should I do if my landlord refuses to return my deposit?
   If your landlord withholds your security deposit or deducts unfair amounts, you may apply to the Rental Office using Form 1 to resolve the dispute. Keep all documentation and correspondence as evidence.
3. Can I access my old rental unit after eviction to collect my things?
   You should contact your landlord promptly to arrange retrieval. Landlords must store left property for 30 days, but access terms and times should be communicated in writing.
4. What official forms do I need to recover my deposit or make a complaint?
   The Application to the Rental Office (Form 1) is used for these purposes. You also need to notify your landlord in writing of your forwarding address.
5. Where can I find rental housing after eviction in the Northwest Territories?
   You can explore listings on trusted platforms and local housing agencies. Options are available for both emergency and long-term rentals.

How To: Steps for Tenants After an Eviction

1. How do I request my security deposit back?
   Notify your landlord in writing, provide your new address, and request the return of your deposit. If not returned in 10 days, you can apply to the Rental Office using Form 1.
2. How can I dispute unfair charges or deductions?
   Write to your landlord, outlining your disagreement and offering your evidence. If unresolved, complete Form 1 and submit it to the Rental Office for official resolution.
3. What steps should I take to retrieve my belongings left behind?
   Contact your landlord, set up an appointment, and collect your items as soon as possible. If denied access, record your request and seek advice from the Rental Office or local legal aid.
4. How do I find emergency housing after an eviction?
   Reach out to local social services or tenant support organizations. They can direct you to available shelters or transitional housing options in the Northwest Territories.

Key Takeaways

• After eviction, retrieve your possessions and clean the unit quickly.
• Request your security deposit back in writing and keep all communication records.
• Use official forms and contact the Rental Office if disputes arise.
• Know your rights—support is available if you need help after eviction.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Northwest Territories Rental Office – Information, forms, and dispute resolution
• Residential Tenancies Act (NWT) – Full legislation
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories
• Local legal aid offices and tenant advocacy services for personalized advice

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, S.N.W.T. 2008, c.10, s.30, s.32. See legislation
2. NWT Rental Office: Official government page

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