Preventing Rental Discrimination: Tenant Protection in Northwest Territories

Every tenant deserves fair and equal treatment in the Northwest Territories housing market. Discrimination in rentals—whether subtle or direct—remains a real concern, especially in shared housing or roommate situations. Understanding your rights is vital to protecting yourself, building a positive living environment, and taking action if unfair practices arise.

Recognizing Discrimination in Northwest Territories Rentals

Discrimination occurs when a landlord or roommate treats someone unfairly based on personal characteristics protected by law. In the Northwest Territories, the Human Rights Act and the Residential Tenancies Act safeguard your rights.

What Are Protected Grounds?

Protected grounds in the NWT include:

• Race, colour, ancestry, or place of origin
• Family status (including having children)
• Disability (physical or mental)
• Sex, gender identity, and sexual orientation
• Age, marital status, religion, or creed
• Social condition (such as receiving social assistance)

If a landlord or roommate refuses to rent, sets stricter rules, or evicts you based on these traits, it may be discrimination under the law¹.

Your Rights as a Tenant

The Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories page covers the basics, but here are key points relevant to discrimination:

• You have the right to apply for housing without facing unfair barriers.
• Landlords cannot advertise, screen, or select tenants based on protected characteristics.
• Your rights apply whether renting an apartment, house, or sharing accommodations.

These laws apply to both formal rental agreements and informal roommate or shared housing setups.

Filing a Discrimination Complaint: Step-by-Step

If you believe you have experienced discrimination, you can file a complaint with the Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission. Here is how to proceed:

• Document the incident: Keep notes, emails, listing screenshots, or witness statements.
• Review the commission’s information to confirm your situation fits their process.
• Complete and submit the official form: NWT Human Rights Complaint Form.
• Submit the form online, by mail, or in person at the commission’s office.

Access the NWT Human Rights Complaint Form and process steps here.

The Role of the NWT Rental Officer

For disputes specifically about rent, deposits, or eviction, you may also contact the NWT Rental Officer—the territorial authority for residential tenancies. Discrimination complaints, however, go to the Human Rights Commission.

Tips for Preventing Discrimination and Protecting Yourself

• Ask potential roommates or landlords about their house rules and expectations—open conversation can prevent misunderstandings.
• Understand your responsibilities: review the Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained to know what’s expected.
• Be aware of signs of unfair treatment, such as different rules for different tenants or intrusive questions about your background.

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What Happens After Submitting a Complaint?

Once you file a complaint with the Human Rights Commission, it will be reviewed. They may:

• Contact you and the respondent for more information
• Work to mediate a solution
• Launch a formal investigation if needed

The process is confidential and aims to resolve issues fairly and efficiently.

If Discrimination Is Part of Another Rental Problem

Discrimination sometimes overlaps with other rental challenges, such as eviction or trouble getting repairs addressed. See Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them for additional guidance tailored to the NWT.

Frequently Asked Questions: Tenant Discrimination in NWT

1. Is it legal for a landlord to refuse to rent to me because I have children?
   No; refusing to rent based on family status (like having children) is discrimination under the Human Rights Act.
2. What if a roommate discriminates against me after I move in?
   Both landlords and co-tenants must respect your rights. Document the situation and contact the Human Rights Commission if needed.
3. Does the law protect me if I rent a room informally or on a handshake deal?
   Yes. Human rights protections apply regardless of whether you have a written lease.
4. Who do I contact if discrimination is paired with an eviction notice?
   File a discrimination complaint with the Human Rights Commission and contact the NWT Rental Officer if the eviction process is not being handled legally.
5. Is there a time limit for filing a discrimination complaint?
   Yes. Generally, you must file a complaint within two years of the incident.

Summary: How to Protect Yourself

• Know your rights—discrimination is illegal in all rental situations.
• Keep written records of any incidents.
• Use official channels to file a complaint if necessary.
• Seek support from government offices or tenant advocates when needed.

Empowerment comes from understanding your legal protections and taking proactive steps.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission: File a complaint or get advice (1-888-669-5575)
• NWT Rental Officer: For general tenant-landlord disputes (867-767-9256 ext. 82186)
• See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories for a legal overview

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1. For legislation: NWT Human Rights Act; Residential Tenancies Act
2. NWT Human Rights Commission: official site
3. NWT Rental Officer (territorial tribunal for tenancy matters): government info

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