Sharing a rental home with roommates is a popular and often affordable option for tenants in the Northwest Territories. However, living in shared housing creates specific questions about legal rights, responsibilities, and what to do if problems arise. This comprehensive FAQ tackles the most common issues — from security deposits and lease arrangements to health and safety and resolving disputes. All information is based on the Northwest Territories’ Residential Tenancies Act and official guidelines, ensuring you know exactly where you stand.
Understanding Shared Rental Arrangements
Roommate situations in the Northwest Territories usually fall into one of three categories:
- Co-tenants: All names are listed on the lease. Each tenant shares equal legal responsibility for the rental agreement.
- Subtenants: The master tenant (whose name is on the lease) rents a room to another person, known as a subtenant. The master tenant acts as a landlord to the subtenant.
- Licensees (informal arrangement): The roommate is not officially named in the lease or as a subtenant. They may not have formal tenant rights.
It’s vital to know which arrangement you share — as legal protections and eviction rules can differ significantly.
Who Is Responsible for the Rent and Damage Deposit?
All tenants listed on the lease are jointly responsible for the full rent and any damage to the property, not only for their portion. The landlord can pursue any named tenant for unpaid amounts or damages — even if it was caused by another roommate.
Security deposits in the Northwest Territories can be up to one month’s rent. If you’re moving in with roommates, clarify how the deposit is being paid and how it will be returned — disputes can arise at move-out when one or more roommates leave at different times. For more details, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
What Should a Roommate Agreement Include?
While not legally required, a roommate agreement is highly recommended. This written agreement can set rules for:
- Who pays each portion of the rent and utilities
- How household chores are divided
- How guests, quiet hours, or pets are handled
- How notice is given when someone wants to move out
Roommate agreements are not enforceable under the Residential Tenancies Act, but they can help prevent misunderstandings and offer a written record if issues arise.
Ending a Roommate Arrangement or Lease
Tenants in the Northwest Territories who want to end their shared housing arrangement have different options depending on their status:
- If you’re a co-tenant, you can serve proper notice to terminate your part of the lease. The remaining roommate(s) may need to sign a new agreement or be approved by the landlord.
- If you’re a subtenant, you must give your master tenant written notice according to your sublease agreement.
- If you are not named on the lease, your rights are limited, and you may not have official recourse under the Act.
For the process of ending your rental agreement, including notice requirements and timelines, see How to Properly End Your Rental Agreement as a Tenant.
What Happens If a Roommate Doesn't Pay Their Share?
If rent is unpaid, the landlord can require full payment from any one (or all) co-tenants listed on the lease. Landlords will communicate directly with those named in the agreement. Disputes over payment between roommates (for example, if one roommate leaves early or doesn’t pay their share) must usually be resolved privately or, if needed, in small claims court.
Health and Safety and Tenant Rights
All tenants in a rental property (including roommates) are entitled to live in a safe and healthy environment. Concerns about repairs, pests, or other hazards should be reported to the landlord promptly. The main tenant listed on the lease may be the one to formally submit requests. Learn more in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
If problems persist and affect your ability to enjoy or safely live in the rental, you can apply to the Northwest Territories Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) for help.
Official Forms and Tenant Actions
Roommates may need to use certain forms in shared housing scenarios. Here are the most relevant under the Northwest Territories Residential Tenancies Act:
- Notice of Termination (form available from the RTO): Used when a tenant wishes to end their tenancy, either for themselves or jointly with others. Give the form to the landlord, following the notice period in your lease or the minimum required by law. Example: You decide to move out, but your roommates want to stay; you would provide the Notice of Termination with your move-out date.
- Application to the Director (NWT RTO Form): Used to resolve disputes about rent, eviction, repairs, or deposit issues. Example: You and a roommate disagree with the landlord’s retention of your security deposit; you can file this application with the RTO.
If you're unsure which form to use, contacting the RTO directly is the best first step.
Useful Tips for Roommates in the Northwest Territories
- Always clarify with your landlord who is actually a tenant, subtenant, or guest — get everything in writing.
- Document all payments (rent, deposits) and keep records even if paid to a roommate or master tenant.
- Communicate openly with roommates to prevent disputes and misunderstandings.
- For additional understanding of tenant and landlord rights locally, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.
- Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings if you’re considering moving to a new space.
- Can my roommate or the main tenant evict me without notice?
If you are a co-tenant, only the landlord following proper legal process can end your tenancy. If you're a subtenant or not on the lease, you may have fewer rights, but required notice is generally needed as per any written or verbal agreement. Unlawful lockouts by roommates are not permitted. - Do I have to pay for damages caused by my roommate?
If your name is on the lease, you can be held jointly liable by the landlord for property damages—regardless of which roommate was responsible. You may seek repayment from the responsible person privately. - What can I do if my roommate won’t leave or pay?
If they are a co-tenant, you may need to involve the landlord. For subtenants, the master tenant can follow legal process to end the subtenancy. You may also make an application to the Residential Tenancies Office if disputes can't be resolved between parties. - How do we split the damage deposit when moving out?
By law, the security deposit is returned to the tenants as named on the lease. If one or more roommates moves out earlier, the group will need to decide how to distribute the funds. Put your agreement in writing to avoid disagreements.
- How do I add a new roommate to the lease?
All current tenants should seek written approval from the landlord before adding a new roommate. The landlord may require the new roommate to apply and sign the lease. Once approved, request a revised written agreement listing all parties. - How do I file a dispute with the Residential Tenancies Office?
1. Collect your lease, receipts, and any written roommate agreements or communications.
2. Download and complete the Application to the Director.
3. Submit the form in person, by fax, or mail to the RTO along with supporting documentation.
4. Await instructions for scheduling a mediation or hearing. - How can I give notice to move out if my roommates want to stay?
If you are a co-tenant, serve a written Notice of Termination (NWT RTO form) to the landlord and inform your roommates. Keep a copy for your records. The landlord and remaining tenants may discuss amending the lease or re-assigning responsibility.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Northwest Territories Residential Tenancies Office (RTO): Guide to forms, dispute resolution, and information for both tenants and landlords
- NWT Tenancy Forms and Resources: Official documents including Notice of Termination and Application to the Director
- Local legal clinics and tenant advice lines: Reach out for individual support and advice on shared housing issues
