Roommate & Shared Housing Rights in the Northwest Territories

Shared housing is a popular—and often necessary—choice for tenants looking for affordable housing in the Northwest Territories. Living with roommates involves more than just splitting rent—it comes with unique legal rights, responsibilities, and sometimes challenges. This guide explains what you need to know about your rights when sharing a rental, how the law applies, and where to find help if issues arise.

Understanding Shared Housing and Roommate Arrangements in the Northwest Territories

Roommate situations can take several forms: sometimes, all tenants sign the lease together; in other cases, only one person is the official tenant, while others are considered subtenants or unofficial roommates. It's important for every tenant to know how the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) protects you, and where it does not apply.

• Co-tenancy: You and your roommates sign the lease together. You share full legal responsibility for the unit and payments.
• Subletting: The main tenant rents out all or part of the unit to someone else, who becomes a subtenant. Subletting usually requires landlord approval.
• Informal Roommates: If your name is not on the lease, you may have fewer rights under the RTA.

Having a clear roommate agreement in writing (covering rent, utilities, chores, or who pays the security deposit) can help prevent misunderstandings.

Legal Protections for Tenants in Shared Housing

Whether you are a tenant or a subtenant, your rights and responsibilities are shaped by your agreement and the law. In the Northwest Territories:

• Tenants named on the lease share joint responsibility for rent, utilities, and property damage.
• Subtenants are responsible to the main tenant, not directly to the landlord.

For a general outline of tenant rights and landlord obligations, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

Key Rights for All Tenants

• Right to a safe and healthy living space
• Right to privacy—landlords must provide notice before entering the unit
• Right to receive proper notice for rent increases or eviction

For more on what a safe rental includes, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Deposits, Rent, and Paying Bills

In shared housing, security deposits and rent payments are usually shared among all roommates. The Residential Tenancies Act allows landlords to ask for a security deposit (often up to one month's rent). It's critical to agree in writing who pays how much—and how deposits are returned if someone moves out early.

For a detailed explanation, read Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

All named tenants are legally responsible if rent is unpaid, regardless of any private roommate arrangements. Make sure rent is paid on time to avoid disputes or risk of eviction.

Ending a Roommate Arrangement or Moving Out

If you wish to move out:

• Check if your name is on the lease. If so, you are responsible for giving proper notice to the landlord—typically in writing.
• If you are a subtenant, you must notify the main tenant as well.

Official Form:

• Notice of Termination (Form 1) — Used to end a tenancy. Provide this form to your landlord with the required notice. Download here. Example: If you are moving out at the end of the month, provide at least 30 days' notice using this form.

Make sure to communicate your plans with all roommates to avoid confusion or billing issues after you leave.

Roommate Disputes and Seeking Resolution

Conflicts about cleaning, noise, pets, or money can arise. The Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) only handles disputes between tenants and landlords, not between roommates. Roommate disputes must generally be resolved privately, through conversation, mediation, or the civil court system for issues such as unpaid rent or property damage.

Tip: Write your agreements and keep records of payments to prevent misunderstandings with roommates.

When the Law Does—and Doesn’t—Apply

The Residential Tenancies Act applies when at least one tenant is named on the lease. Subtenants may not have full protections. Common law contracts between roommates or subtenants can be enforced in Small Claims Court.

For a full summary of tenant and landlord responsibilities, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Finding and Choosing Roommates

When searching for new roommates, screen carefully and make arrangements in writing before anyone moves in. If looking for a new place to live, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to discover new shared accommodations and listings in your area.

FAQ: Tenant Rights in Shared Rentals and Roommate Housing

1. Can my roommate evict me in the Northwest Territories?
   If you are not on the lease and have no contract, a roommate may ask you to leave, but only the landlord can formally evict tenants recognized by the lease or RTA. Disputes may need to be settled in civil court.
2. How do I get my security deposit back if I move out and my roommates stay?
   If all tenants are on the lease, the security deposit is usually returned when everyone vacates. Arrange privately with your roommates for reimbursement if you move out early.
3. Are utilities included in roommate rights?
   This depends on the lease or your agreement. Be sure to put in writing who pays which utilities to avoid disputes.
4. Do I have to pay for my roommate's property damage?
   All named tenants share legal responsibility for damages, unless you can prove otherwise. Clear records are essential.

How To: Handle a Dispute with a Roommate

1. How can I resolve an issue with a roommate?
   Try talking early to resolve disagreements. If it cannot be settled, consider mediation or, for legal debts or damages, the Small Claims Court.
2. How do I give proper notice if I want to leave shared housing?
   Provide the landlord with a completed Notice of Termination (Form 1) with at least 30 days' notice. Ensure all roommates are informed. Access the form here.
3. What if a roommate stops paying rent?
   All co-tenants are responsible for unpaid rent. Talk to your landlord and your roommate quickly to find a fair solution.

Key Takeaways for Tenants in Shared Housing

• Know if you're a co-tenant or a subtenant to understand your rights.
• Put all agreements in writing—especially for money or chores.
• Communicate early about problems; unresolved disputes may go to Small Claims Court.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Office, Northwest Territories: Tenant complaints, landlord disputes, forms, and information.
• Residential Tenancies Act (NWT): Full legislation and tenant protections.
• Tenants’ Association of the Northwest Territories: Advocacy and education for tenants.
• Review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories for a full guide.

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1. NWT Residential Tenancies Act available at Official Legislation Site.
2. Residential Tenancies Office, Northwest Territories: RTO Information & Forms.

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