Roommate Agreements in Northwest Territories: Tenant Guide

Living with roommates in the Northwest Territories can be a great way to share expenses and build community. But, just like any rental arrangement, misunderstandings can arise—especially if expectations aren't clear. Creating a roommate agreement helps protect everyone involved, ensuring that each person knows their rights, responsibilities, and how to handle conflicts when they come up.

Why Have a Roommate Agreement?

A roommate agreement is a written contract between tenants sharing a rental property. While it’s not legally binding in the same way as a lease, it helps outline expectations for everyday living—and can prevent disputes over issues like cleaning, paying rent, or sharing bills.

  • Clarifies payment responsibilities: How will rent, utilities, and deposits be divided?
  • Defines each person’s privacy and use of shared space.
  • Outlines procedures for sharing chores, buying supplies, or hosting guests.
  • Sets out how to handle damage, maintenance, or moving out early.

It’s important to note that the landlord-tenant relationship is generally between the landlord and the tenant(s) named on the lease. However, a roommate agreement can be especially valuable where only one roommate is named on the lease, or if you're all co-tenants.

Northwest Territories Laws: Key Facts for Roommates

Residential tenancies in the Northwest Territories are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act[1]. The NWT Rental Office (Rental Officer) oversees disputes and provides guidance for both tenants and landlords. While a roommate agreement isn't an official requirement, it can make it much easier to resolve common issues.

For tenants seeking a full overview of your rights and duties, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

What Does the Law Say About Roommates?

The Residential Tenancies Act does not directly govern relationships between co-tenants or roommates not listed on the lease. However, everyone who lives in the rental unit is responsible for following health and safety rules and respecting other occupants. Co-tenants named on the lease share legal responsibility for the rental (including rent and damage), whereas a subtenant or other occupant may not have the same protections.

Tip: Only tenants named on the rental agreement can typically bring disputes to the NWT Rental Office. Keep this in mind when structuring your living arrangement.

What Should Go Into a Roommate Agreement?

When drafting your agreement, think about the most likely sources of disagreement. Every agreement is unique, but consider including the following topics:

  • Division of rent and how payments are made
  • Utilities, internet, and other bills—who pays what?
  • Cleaning schedules and shared chores
  • Rules about noise, parties, or overnight guests
  • Smoking, pets, or special landlord rules
  • What happens if someone wants to move out early
  • Handling damage or repairs
  • Process for resolving disputes between roommates

It’s always helpful to keep the agreement in writing and ensure everyone signs and receives a copy.

Sample Roommate Agreement Template

The Northwest Territories does not provide a standardized roommate agreement form, but you can create your own document. There are sample templates available from national tenant advocacy groups, but ensure you update it for rules or expectations specific to your rental situation.

For additional guidance, review official NWT tenant resources or speak to the NWT Rental Office directly.

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Roommate Agreements, Deposits, and Paying Rent

Security deposits and rent are a common source of confusion in shared living. Generally, the landlord requires a deposit and rent payment from the tenant(s) named on the lease. Be sure to outline in your roommate agreement how all roommates will contribute, and what happens with refunds if someone moves out.

For more on this, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know and Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

Official Forms and Notices in Northwest Territories

The Residential Tenancies Act sets requirements for landlords and tenants, but not between roommates. However, if a roommate is listed on the lease and needs to end their tenancy or resolve an issue formally with the landlord, official forms may be required. These can include:

  • Notice to Terminate a Tenancy (Form 1): Used when a tenant wants to end the rental agreement. For example, if you and your roommate both sign the lease but one wants to move out, they must provide this official notice.
    Find the form and instructions from the NWT Rental Office forms page.
  • Application to Rental Officer (Form 2): Used to resolve disputes (such as deposit issues or maintenance concerns) between the landlord and tenant(s). If your roommate situation leads to a dispute with the landlord, tenants on the lease can apply.
    Download Application to Rental Officer (Form 2).

These forms are not typically used for disputes strictly between roommates, but are important if the issue affects the lease or the tenancy as a whole.

Action Steps for Tenants

If you are drafting a roommate agreement or facing an issue, here are some steps you can follow:

  • Discuss expectations with your roommate(s) openly before moving in or as soon as possible.
  • Write down your agreement and ensure every roommate signs it.
  • Keep the agreement in a safe place and email copies to each other.
  • If a dispute arises, refer to your agreement to resolve it first.
  • If the issue impacts the official tenancy (lease), contact the NWT Rental Office for guidance.

More Tips for a Positive Roommate Experience

  • Hold regular check-ins to talk about what's working or not.
  • Agree on a process for handling bills and keep records of all payments.
  • Be respectful of each other’s space and schedules.
A clear roommate agreement can prevent many common issues before they begin, leading to a better, more stress-free living situation for everyone.

Looking for a new shared rental? Browse apartments for rent in Canada to find your next home.

FAQs About Roommate Agreements in Northwest Territories

  1. Is a roommate agreement legally enforceable in the Northwest Territories?
    A roommate agreement is not legally binding like a lease, but it is a written contract that can help clarify expectations and may be useful if a disagreement arises between roommates.
  2. What happens if my roommate doesn’t pay their share of the rent?
    If you are both listed on the lease, you are collectively responsible for the entire rent to the landlord. Be sure your roommate agreement covers how you'll handle payment shortages.
  3. Can the landlord evict just one roommate?
    Only tenants named on the lease can be formally evicted. If you’re not on the lease, your right to stay depends on the agreement with your co-tenant(s).
  4. What should I do if a dispute with my roommate affects my tenancy?
    Try to resolve it using your roommate agreement first. If the issue can’t be resolved and impacts your tenancy, contact the NWT Rental Office for guidance.
  5. Where can I learn more about my rights as a tenant?
    Visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories for an in-depth guide.

Summary: Creating Strong Roommate Agreements

  • A written roommate agreement helps clarify responsibilities and reduce conflict.
  • You should discuss and write down expectations for rent, bills, chores, and moving out.
  • For tenancy-related disputes, official forms from the NWT Rental Office may be required.

In summary: good communication and clear agreements are key for a successful shared housing experience in the Northwest Territories.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants


  1. See Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories).
  2. Visit the NWT Rental Office (Rental Officer) for official rules, forms, and resources.
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.