Rent Increase Without Notice: Tenant Rights in Northwest Territories

If you live in the Northwest Territories and your landlord has increased your rent without providing proper written notice, it's important to understand your rights and the steps you can take. Whether you rent an apartment, condo, or house, both you and your landlord have responsibilities under territorial law. This guide explains what to do if your rent is raised without notice, referencing current legislation and official forms in the Northwest Territories.

What the Law Says About Rent Increases in Northwest Territories

Under the Residential Tenancies Act of the Northwest Territories^[1], landlords must give proper advance written notice before raising your rent. For most tenancies, this means:

• Written notice must be provided at least three full months before the rent increase takes effect.
• Rent can only be increased once every 12 months.
• The notice must state the new rent amount and when it will start.

If your landlord did not give you proper notice, you are not required to pay the increased amount until the correct notice is given. For a deeper understanding of your ongoing rights and obligations after moving in, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

What Is Proper Notice?

Proper written notice must be delivered either in person or by mail to your address for service. Email or text messages do not count unless you have specifically agreed in writing to receive notices that way.

What to Do If Your Rent Is Raised Without Notice

If you’ve received a sudden rent increase or found your landlord charging a new higher amount without three months’ written notice, act promptly. Here's a summary before a more detailed step-by-step guide:

• Do not pay the increased amount until proper notice is received.
• Notify your landlord in writing of the problem and request correction.
• Contact the Rental Officer if the issue is not resolved.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Application to the Rental Officer (Form 2): If discussions with your landlord do not resolve the issue, submit Form 2: Application to the Rental Officer. Use this form to request that the Rental Officer review the attempted rent increase and make an order. For example, if your landlord raised your rent without notice on April 1st but did not provide notice until March 15th, you can use this form to have the increase declared invalid. Attach any written correspondence and proof of the improper notice.
• Notice to Increase Rent (Form 6): Landlords must use Form 6: Notice of Increase of Rent to properly notify you. If you receive a rent increase by any method other than this form with the required notice period, it’s likely not valid.

Action Steps for Tenants

• Review your tenancy agreement for any clauses about rent increases.
• Request your landlord provide the appropriate Form 6 with at least three months' written notice for any rent adjustment.
• Keep all written communications and evidence of notice (or lack of notice).
• If your landlord insists on the increase without notice, complete Form 2 and submit it to the Rental Officer. Contact information and forms are available on the Government of Northwest Territories Rental Office website.

Your Rights and Responsibilities

Both you and your landlord must follow the rules set out in the Residential Tenancies Act. If your landlord increases your rent without proper notice, the increase is not enforceable until correct notice is given. To learn more about general obligations, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Where to Get Additional Support

Experiencing issues with rent, eviction, or other tenancy problems is common. Learn about Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know for more information on rules and dispute resolution for rent changes. If you’re searching for a new place due to persistent rental issues, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings to find your next home easily.

Want general information on tenant rights in the Northwest Territories? Visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories for a province-specific overview of rental law and common issues.

FAQ: Tenants and Rent Increases Without Notice in Northwest Territories

1. What should I do if my landlord asks for higher rent without notice?
   You should advise your landlord in writing that the increase is invalid without proper notice, continue to pay your existing rent, and report the issue to the Rental Officer if it is not resolved.
2. Is a verbal notice of rent increase legal in Northwest Territories?
   No. Rent increases must be provided in writing, typically using Form 6, at least three months before the increase takes effect.
3. Can my landlord backdate a rent increase after missing the notice period?
   No, your landlord cannot collect previously unpaid rent increases for any period when correct notice was not given. The increase can only begin after proper notice is delivered.
4. Where do I file a complaint about an improper rent increase?
   Applications should be made to the Rental Officer for the Northwest Territories, using Form 2.
5. How often can my landlord increase my rent?
   Only once every 12 months, and always with at least three months’ written notice.

Conclusion: What Tenants Need to Remember

• Landlords in the Northwest Territories must give at least three months' written notice before any rent increase.
• If you receive a rent hike without notice, you have the right to refuse and can apply to the Rental Officer for help.
• Keep copies of all rent notices and communications, and act quickly if you believe your rights are being breached.

Taking these steps helps ensure fair treatment and protects your housing situation.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Government of Northwest Territories Rental Office: Forms, guides, and contact details for the Rental Officer.
• Phone: 1-867-767-9256 ext. 15231 or toll free 1-833-771-2175
• Residential Tenancies Act: Guide for Tenants and Landlords (PDF)
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories)
2. Government of Northwest Territories Office of the Rental Officer

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