Repair problems in a rental are stressful, but tenants in the Northwest Territories have clear steps to protect health and safety and to get mandatory repairs done. This plain-language guide explains what landlords must fix, how to document and report defects, when to use written notices or official forms, and how to bring a dispute if repairs are refused. It focuses on practical actions tenants can take—photographs, dated messages, and reasonable deadlines—and notes when an issue is urgent. The guidance links to NWT government resources and helps you prepare if you need to file for dispute resolution. Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme
What landlords must repair in the Northwest Territories
Landlords are responsible for keeping a rental in a reasonable state of repair and fit for habitation. Typical mandatory repairs include:
- Essential systems such as heating, plumbing, electricity and hot water must be maintained so the unit is safe and usable.
- Safety hazards like broken door locks, exposed wiring, or fire risks should be fixed promptly to protect occupants.
- Problems that affect habitability—major leaks, serious mold, or pest infestations—are typically the landlord's responsibility.
How to request repairs
Follow a clear, documented approach so you can show what happened and when. Use these practical steps as a checklist before escalating a problem.
- Document the problem with dated photos, videos and a short written description including when you first noticed it.
- Send the landlord a written notice describing the repair needed and a reasonable deadline for completion, and keep a copy.
- If the issue is urgent and dangerous, call emergency services or building management and tell the landlord immediately by phone and in writing.
- If repairs are refused or ignored, prepare to file an application to the territorial dispute office or tribunal and gather your evidence.
Communicating and reasonable timelines
State the problem clearly, propose a reasonable timeframe for repair, and offer access times for contractors. Reasonable timelines depend on the severity—safety and heating issues generally require faster action than cosmetic fixes. When you set a date in writing, avoid aggressive language; stick to facts, dates and what remedy you want.
FAQ
- What counts as a mandatory repair?
- Mandatory repairs are those affecting health, safety or basic habitability, like heat, plumbing, electricity, major leaks, or serious mold. [1]
- How long should I wait for a landlord to fix something?
- TImelines depend on severity: urgent safety or heating issues should be addressed immediately; non-urgent repairs are typically expected within a reasonable period after written notice. [1]
- Can I withhold rent or hire a contractor and deduct costs?
- Tenants should not withhold rent or make deductions without checking the local rules and using official forms; doing so can risk eviction. Use the territorial dispute process for guidance. [2]
- Where do I file a complaint if the landlord won’t fix urgent issues?
- If a landlord refuses necessary repairs, you can file an application with the territorial residential tenancies office or the designated dispute-resolution body. Follow the official filing steps and include all evidence. [3]
How-To
- Document the issue with photos, video, and notes that show dates and impacts.
- Send a clear written repair request to your landlord, keep a copy, and set a reasonable deadline.
- Allow access for inspections or repairs when you are given reasonable notice and the time is agreed.
- If unresolved, file an application with the territorial dispute office and attach your documentation and copies of notices.
Key Takeaways
- Document every repair issue with dated photos and records to support your case.
- Always send written notice and keep copies before escalating to a dispute body.
- Prioritize urgent safety issues and seek immediate help when health or fire risks are present.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential tenancies - Government of the Northwest Territories
- Residential Tenancies Act (NWT)
- NWT dispute and forms - Residential Tenancies Office
