Facing overdue rent can be stressful, but tenants in the Northwest Territories have clear rights and pathways to repay rent arrears. Provincial legislation and the rental tribunal provide protection, fair treatment, and options such as repayment plans. Understanding these options will help you maintain your tenancy and avoid eviction.
What Is a Rent Arrears Repayment Plan?
A rent arrears repayment plan is a written agreement between a tenant and landlord allowing overdue rent to be paid over time, rather than all at once. In the Northwest Territories, these plans can help tenants catch up without facing immediate eviction.
Key Points About Repayment Plans
- Plans must be agreed to by both the tenant and landlord.
- They outline specific payment amounts, due dates, and the total period for repayment.
- Having a written plan protects both parties and creates legal clarity.
Even if you fall behind on rent, communicate promptly with your landlord. Proposing a reasonable repayment plan can often prevent legal action.
Your Rights and Responsibilities Under NWT Law
Tenant and landlord rights in the Northwest Territories are outlined in the Residential Tenancies Act (NWT)[1]. The Office of the Rental Officer resolves rental disputes and handles applications relating to arrears and repayment plans. Learn more about Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories for an overview.
Important Tenant Rights
- You have the right to be notified in writing if your landlord intends to end your tenancy due to unpaid rent.
- You have the right to propose a repayment plan at any point after falling behind.
- If a plan is agreed upon, the landlord cannot take eviction steps as long as you make the required payments on time.
What Happens If You Fall Behind on Rent?
If you miss a rent payment, the landlord can serve you a Notice of Termination. However, you may be able to prevent eviction by paying the arrears or proposing a repayment plan promptly.
- If the landlord accepts your repayment plan and you comply, the tenancy continues.
- If you default on the plan, the landlord may proceed with termination and apply to the Rental Officer for eviction.
What to Include in a Repayment Plan
- Total amount owed
- Installment amounts and payment dates
- End date (when arrears will be paid in full)
- Both signatures (tenant and landlord)
It's advisable to keep copies of all written communications with your landlord. For more information on your payment obligations, see Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.
Official Forms and How to Use Them
Forms used in rent arrears situations are available on the NWT Office of the Rental Officer website. Here are the key forms:
-
Application for an Order of the Rental Officer (Form 13): If agreement cannot be reached, either party can apply to the Rental Officer for a decision about rent arrears or repayment terms.
When to use: For example, if your landlord rejects a reasonable repayment offer and threatens eviction, you can use this form to ask the Rental Officer to review your case.
Official Application Form -
Notice of Termination for Non-Payment of Rent (Form 7): Served by landlords if rent is not paid on time.
When to use: You would receive this notice if you miss rent. Responding quickly with payment or a repayment plan can often prevent further action.
See the official notice here
How Does the Rental Officer Help?
The NWT Office of the Rental Officer handles disputes about rent arrears and repayment plans. They can issue binding decisions to enforce repayment terms or handle eviction if an agreement fails.
What If You Can't Agree on a Plan?
If you and your landlord cannot agree, you can apply to the Rental Officer. The officer will consider:
- Your ability to pay
- Efforts made to reach an agreement
- Any special circumstances (e.g., health or family emergencies)
For tips on managing rent, consult Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
Looking for a new place or want to compare rents? Browse apartments for rent in Canada easily with map-based tools and filters.
- Can my landlord refuse a repayment plan if I'm behind on rent?
Landlords are not legally required to accept every repayment proposal. However, the Rental Officer may intervene if you offer a reasonable plan, especially if you act quickly and in good faith. - What happens if I miss a payment under my repayment plan?
If you default on a repayment plan, your landlord may resume the eviction process. Always contact your landlord and the Rental Officer immediately if you anticipate difficulties meeting a payment. - Can I be evicted immediately for unpaid rent?
No. Landlords must provide an official Notice of Termination and follow the correct process. Tenants have time to pay the arrears or propose a repayment plan before eviction can proceed. - Where can I get help negotiating a repayment plan?
Local tenant advocacy services, legal aid, or the NWT Office of the Rental Officer can offer guidance and dispute resolution support.
Summary:
- Act quickly if you fall behind on rent—propose a repayment plan in writing.
- Use official NWT forms and involve the Rental Officer if you can't agree on terms.
- Repayment plans are designed to prevent eviction and protect tenants' rights.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants in the Northwest Territories
- Office of the Rental Officer (NWT): Provincial tribunal handling rental disputes.
- NWT Legal Aid: Legal support for tenants.
- NWT Housing Corporation: Tenant programs and information.
- Know your rights: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories
