Landlords in the Northwest Territories have a responsibility to create rental listings that treat applicants fairly. This guide explains how to avoid discriminatory rental ads, which words to avoid, and how to screen applicants without violating tenant rights. Whether you post on classifieds, social media, or a property portal, inclusive wording reduces complaints and legal risk while widening the pool of potential renters. The steps below cover practical ad wording, record keeping, when to use official forms, and how to respond if someone raises a concern about an ad. If you manage multiple properties, these clear practices will help you comply with NWT rules and respect accessibility and protected characteristics for all tenants and renters.
Why discriminatory ads are prohibited in the Northwest Territories
Federal and territorial human rights protections make it unlawful to advertise a tenancy in a way that excludes or discourages people because of protected characteristics such as race, religion, sex, family status, disability or age. Landlords should treat applicants consistently and use neutral eligibility criteria tied to tenancy needs, not personal traits. For details on territory rules and the legislation that applies, contact the Residential Tenancies Office or review the Residential Tenancies Act.[1][2]
How to write inclusive rental ads
- Do not state requirements that could be illegal, such as "no children" or age limits that exclude protected groups.
- Focus on unit facts: rent, utilities, deposit amount, lease length, square footage and available amenities.
- Describe accessibility features factually (for example, "ground-floor unit" or "bathroom grab bars") without implying preference for tenants with disabilities.
- Clarify deposit and payment policies clearly—state the required security deposit amount, when it is due, and acceptable payment methods.
- Use neutral language like "applicants must meet income and reference requirements" instead of listing personal characteristics.
Screening, privacy and reasonable accommodation
Use consistent screening criteria related to the tenancy (income, rental history, references). Avoid asking questions that probe protected characteristics. When a prospective tenant discloses a disability and requests a reasonable accommodation (for example, a service animal or a unit modification), evaluate the request under the territory's accommodation rules and respond in writing. If you collect personal information during screening, store it securely and delete information from unsuccessful applicants within a reasonable time.
What to do if you encounter or receive a complaint about an ad
- Save the original ad and any screenshots, copies of replies, and timestamps as evidence.
- Correct the ad immediately and note when the correction was posted.
- If the complainant requests formal action, explain how to file with the Residential Tenancies Office or the territorial human rights body and provide necessary forms.
- When in doubt, seek guidance from landlord resources or legal advisors before taking action that could affect a tenant's rights.
FAQ
- Can I advertise a preference for non-smokers?
- You may advertise unit rules such as "no smoking inside" if applied consistently, but avoid language that targets protected groups; clarify how the rule applies and any exceptions.
- How do I file a complaint about a discriminatory ad in NWT?
- Save evidence then contact the Residential Tenancies Office or the territorial human rights office to learn the formal complaint process and what forms to file.[1]
- What if a prospective tenant says they need an accommodation?
- Assess the request based on whether it is reasonable and does not cause undue hardship; document the decision and any steps you take to accommodate.
How-To
- Review your draft ad and remove any wording that could prohibit or exclude groups protected by human rights laws.
- Rewrite the ad to describe only the property and tenancy terms (rent, deposit, lease length, amenities, accessibility features).
- Save a dated copy or screenshot of the posted ad and any replies for your records in case of a future dispute.
- If you receive a complaint, correct the ad promptly and file any required forms with the Residential Tenancies Office within the timelines they specify.[3]
- Consult landlord guidance for consistent screening and, when needed, seek advice from the Residential Tenancies Office or a legal advisor.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Office, Government of the Northwest Territories
- Residential Tenancies Act, Northwest Territories
- Residential tenancies forms and filing instructions
