Requesting Repairs as a Tenant in Northwest Territories

As a tenant in the Northwest Territories, knowing how to properly request repairs in your rental unit is essential for maintaining a safe and comfortable home. Following the right steps helps protect your rights and ensures any issues are officially documented. This guide uses plain language, local legislation, and official procedures to help you navigate the process confidently.

Your Right to Repair and Maintenance in Northwest Territories

Under the Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories), landlords are required to keep the rental property in good repair and fit for habitation. Tenants also have a responsibility to report maintenance issues promptly and cooperate with repair arrangements.¹

Before Submitting a Repair Request: What to Check

Some common problems, like broken appliances or heating issues, should be addressed quickly by your landlord. Others, like cosmetic repairs, might not be urgent. Always check your rental agreement and the condition of the property when you move in. If you haven't, our Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants explains the importance of documenting the property's state at move-in.

The Official Process to Request Repairs

Here are the main steps to request repairs in the Northwest Territories:

• Document the issue: Take photos or videos if needed. Write down when you noticed the problem.
• Notify your landlord in writing: Clearly describe the repair needed and request a timeline for it to be fixed.
• Use the right form: While there is no province-mandated repair request form, you should make your request in writing (via letter, email, or the landlord’s preferred method). See the sample letter below.
• Keep copies: Always save a copy of your repair request for your records.
• Allow reasonable time: Landlords are given reasonable time to respond and make the repair once notified.

Sample Repair Request Letter (Northwest Territories)

Here’s a template you can use to formally request repairs from your landlord:

Subject: Repair Request for [Address of Rental Unit]

Date: [Date]
To: [Landlord’s Name and Address]

Dear [Landlord’s Name],

I am writing to request repairs at my rental unit located at [address]. The following issue(s) need attention:
- [Briefly describe the problem, e.g., "The heating system is not working."]

Please let me know when the repairs will be completed. I look forward to your prompt response.

Sincerely,
[Your Name and Contact Information]

Tip: Email is convenient, but a physical letter sent by registered mail provides proof of delivery.

If Repairs Are Not Completed

If your landlord does not respond or fails to complete the repair in a reasonable time, you may:

• Remind your landlord with another written notice
• Contact the Rental Office (Rental Officer) for mediation or dispute resolution
• Submit a formal complaint or application to require the landlord to make the repairs

Official Tribunal and Forms

Residential tenancy matters in the Northwest Territories are overseen by the Rental Officer. If informal steps don’t work, tenants can file an application for an order to complete repairs:

• Application to Rental Officer: Use the "Tenancy Application Form" (available from the Rental Officer’s official forms page). This form lets tenants ask for an order requiring the landlord to carry out repairs. Include all documentation and a copy of your initial repair request.

This formal application can lead to a hearing and, if successful, an enforceable repair order.

Other Tenant Rights and Safety Resources

Some repair issues may impact the health or safety of your rental home. Read about Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for more on your rights. Understanding these situations may also help if repairs relate to emergency conditions or serious risks.

You can also review Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities for information on who is responsible for different types of repairs.

For complete details on Northwest Territories housing law, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

Looking for a new home? Browse apartments for rent in Canada with Houseme’s easy map-based search.

FAQs: Tenant Repair Requests in the Northwest Territories

1. What should I do if my landlord ignores my repair request?
   Follow up with a second written notice. If you still get no response, contact the Rental Officer for further action.
2. Can I pay for repairs myself and deduct them from rent?
   No. In the Northwest Territories, tenants should not pay for repairs and deduct costs from rent without written authorization or a Rental Officer’s order.
3. How long does my landlord have to complete repairs?
   The law requires "reasonable time," depending on the urgency of the problem. Emergencies should be fixed quickly; lesser issues may take longer.
4. Who pays for repairs due to tenant damage?
   Tenants are responsible for any damage they (or their guests) cause deliberately or by negligence. Otherwise, landlords are responsible for normal repairs.
5. Is there a specific form to request repairs?
   No official repair-specific form is required; written notice by letter or email is sufficient. For unresolved issues, use the Tenancy Application Form to apply to the Rental Officer.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Always document repair issues and request repairs in writing.
• If your landlord doesn’t act, you can apply to the Rental Officer for help.
• Learn your responsibilities and the timelines to expect for repairs.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Rental Officer, Northwest Territories Courts – Information, forms, dispute resolution, tenant and landlord support.
• Government of Northwest Territories – Tenants and Landlords – Official government guidance for renters.
• Local legal clinics and community legal services – May offer free tenant support and education.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories): Full Text
2. Rental Officer, Northwest Territories Courts: Official Website
3. Rental Officer Forms (Tenancy Application Form): Download and Instructions

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