Record Sealing and Credit Repair for Evicted Tenants in Northwest Territories

If you’ve experienced eviction in the Northwest Territories, you may be concerned about your public record and credit rating. Eviction can have a lasting impact, but understanding your rights and options can help you move forward. This guide outlines the record-sealing process, how eviction affects your credit, and specific resources available for tenants in the Northwest Territories.

Eviction Records and Privacy in the Northwest Territories

When a landlord obtains an eviction order, either through mutual agreement or a decision by the Residential Tenancies Officer, the outcome is recorded in tribunal records. These records are generally not part of your criminal record, but some may be publicly accessible. They can be referenced by prospective landlords doing background checks. It’s important to know your rights regarding this information.

Who Manages Tenancy Records?

In the Northwest Territories, the Rental Office handles all matters related to eviction applications, landlord-tenant disputes, and tenancy order records.

Official information regarding tenancy disputes is governed by the Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories) ^[1]. Under current law, there is no formal process to "seal" eviction records, but you can take steps to limit their impact on your future housing opportunities.

How Eviction Can Affect Your Credit History

Eviction itself does not automatically appear on your credit report. However, if you owe money—such as unpaid rent, fees, or damage costs—and your landlord sends the debt to a collection agency, that debt will appear in your credit history. Collection actions and court judgments can lower your credit score and make it harder to rent in the future.

• Check your credit report regularly for errors or outstanding debts
• Contact your landlord or the agency listed to resolve any debts you believe are not owed
• Dispute incorrect information with Canada’s credit bureaus (Equifax or TransUnion)

Repairing Your Credit After Eviction

Even with an eviction behind you, you can take positive steps to rebuild your credit score:

• Create a payment plan with your landlord or collection agency
• Request a "release letter" or "paid-in-full" notice after debts are settled
• Use Canada’s official credit dispute process to correct errors
• Pay all current bills on time, as payment history is the biggest factor in credit scores

Steps Tenants Can Take to Address an Eviction Record

While there is no official form in the Northwest Territories dedicated to sealing eviction records, you can address the consequences in several ways. Here’s how to get started:

• Request copies of eviction orders or settlement agreements from the Rental Office to confirm their content
• If you believe an order is in error or your record is inaccurate, contact the Rental Office to discuss the issue and request a correction
• If the matter involved a money judgment, ensure all payments are recorded

Important Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Application to Set Aside an Order (no specific form number): Used if you believe an eviction order was issued incorrectly or you were not properly notified. Submit this to the Rental Office as soon as possible after becoming aware of the order. Find application details here.
• Dispute Resolution Application: This general form lets you challenge a landlord's claim or apply for a review. It is especially helpful if financial errors or misunderstandings are involved. For more information and to download the form, visit the Rental Office forms page.

In practical terms, if you were evicted due to unpaid rent but later paid the amount, you can request the landlord provide written confirmation, then submit that along with a form above if you want the Rental Office record updated. Always keep receipts and written communications for your records.

For more about your rights after an eviction, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

Moving Forward After an Eviction

After eviction, start by documenting all actions you’ve taken. Prepare any references or settlement letters when applying for new rentals. If you’re able to find a new place, following best move-in practices can help you build a positive housing history. Read Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home for a smooth transition. When you’re ready to look for new housing opportunities, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to view listings and start fresh.

FAQ: Record-Sealing & Credit Repair for Evicted Tenants

1. Does an eviction in the Northwest Territories go on my permanent record?
   Eviction decisions are recorded at the Rental Office, but there is no "permanent record" in the criminal sense. However, the decision may be accessible in tribunal files or through background checks.
2. Will an eviction automatically appear on my credit report?
   No, only unpaid debts sent to collections will appear. Evictions themselves are usually not listed unless there’s a money judgment.
3. How do I fix incorrect information about my eviction on my credit report?
   Contact both the credit bureau and the collection agency or landlord involved. Provide proof if the debt was paid or is in error and follow the official dispute process with Equifax or TransUnion.
4. Can I have my eviction record sealed or removed?
   There is no formal record-sealing process in the Northwest Territories, but you can request corrections and ensure outcomes are up to date with the Rental Office.
5. Are there tenant supports if I'm facing difficulties after eviction?
   Yes, government and nonprofit services offer help. See the resources section below for contact information.

Conclusion

• Eviction records are managed by the Rental Office, not part of your criminal record, and can affect future rentals.
• Credit repair after eviction focuses on resolving debts and correcting errors with credit bureaus.
• No official record-sealing exists, but tenants can take proactive steps to protect their future housing opportunities.

Remember—understanding your rights and being proactive will help you recover faster from an eviction. Stay organized and reach out to local resources for ongoing support.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Rental Office – Government of Northwest Territories: Official tenancy board, forms, and dispute resolution guidance
• Residential Tenancies (Gov. NT): Laws and tenant information
• NWT Housing Corporation: Tenant advocacy and public housing assistance
• NWT Legal Aid: Free tenant legal advice for those who qualify – 1-844-835-8050

---

1. Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories)

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy