Roommates & Shared Housing Rights in Northwest Territories

Sharing rental housing in the Northwest Territories can be a practical, affordable option, but it can also lead to unique challenges. Whether you have a formal roommate agreement or a shared living arrangement, understanding your rights and responsibilities—as well as those of your landlord and fellow tenants—is key to maintaining a positive rental experience in the NWT.

Understanding Roommates and Shared Housing in the NWT

Roommates typically share the same rental unit, and depending on your arrangement, you may each be on the lease (co-tenants) or only one of you is legally responsible while others are considered occupants or subtenants. It's important to clarify everyone's status from the start to avoid confusion about who is liable for rent, damage, and communication with the landlord.

• Co-tenants: Both or all names appear on the lease, making each tenant jointly responsible for all conditions (like rent, damages, and following house rules).
• Occupants/Guests: Individuals not listed on the lease may have fewer rights and little recourse if a dispute arises.
• Subtenants: If you sublet (temporarily rent out your place to another), written consent from the landlord is usually required, and special rules apply.

If you are unsure about your arrangement, you can read more in Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

Roommate Agreements Are Highly Recommended

While not required by law, a signed roommate agreement can protect everyone by outlining each person's responsibilities, payment obligations, housekeeping rules, and what happens if someone wants to move out. This agreement is separate from your lease with the landlord but can help resolve disputes between tenants.

Common Issues in Shared Rentals and How to Address Them

Many roommate problems can be managed with open communication and clear agreements, but knowing your legal rights is also essential. Typical issues include:

• Division of rent and bills
• Cleaning and noise disputes
• One roommate wanting to move out early
• Responsibility for damages
• Privacy and guests

When issues arise, always try to resolve them amicably. If you need help, the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) handles tenancy matters in the NWT. You can visit the NWT Residential Tenancies Office for forms and official guidance¹.

What If a Roommate Moves Out?

If a co-tenant moves out, the remaining tenants may still be responsible for the entire rent. You should notify your landlord about any changes in occupancy and update the lease if needed. If you do not, you risk being liable for unpaid rent or damages caused by the departing roommate.

If you are moving out and want to properly end your tenancy, review your lease and give written notice as required by the Residential Tenancies Act (NWT)².

Deposits and Shared Financial Obligations

In the Northwest Territories, tenants often split the security deposit. The landlord can only return the deposit to the tenants named on the agreement, so clear documentation is important. For more details, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Health and Safety in Shared Rentals

All tenants have the right to a safe and healthy living environment. If there are maintenance issues affecting health—like mould, faulty heat, or pests—the landlord is responsible for repairs. Learn more in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Filing Complaints or Seeking Formal Help

If direct negotiation doesn't work, you can formally apply to the Residential Tenancies Office. Tenants often use these forms:

• Application to the Rental Officer (Form 1): Used to resolve disputes, terminate agreements, or recover unpaid rent or deposits.
  Example: If a roommate refuses to pay their share of rent and the landlord issues an eviction notice, you can use this form to dispute liability. Download Form 1
• Notice to End Tenancy (Form 2): Used to give notice of moving out, either at the end of the term or for cause.
  Example: If you need to move out before the lease ends, serve this notice to your landlord and (if relevant) roommates. Download Form 2

Always keep copies of notices and communication for your records.

Your Rights, Responsibilities, and Next Steps

Your rights and duties as a tenant in a shared rental are defined by the Residential Tenancies Act (NWT), your lease, and any roommate agreements. You can explore more practical issues that arise in shared housing, such as paying rent, cleaning, or privacy in Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Frequently Asked Questions About Roommates in the NWT

1. Can my landlord refuse to let me have a roommate?
   Yes, your landlord can set limits on the number of occupants or require approval for new roommates, and those terms should be in your lease. Always get approval in writing.
2. Who is responsible for damages caused by a roommate?
   If everyone is signed on the lease, all tenants are usually jointly responsible for damage, even if it was caused by just one roommate.
3. What if my roommate stops paying their share of rent?
   The landlord can hold all co-tenants responsible for the full rent. Work with your roommate first; if unresolved, consider filing a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Office.
4. How do I properly move out from a shared rental?
   Give written notice to your landlord according to your lease and the Act. Update the agreement and settle deposits with your roommates.
5. Do I have tenant rights if I'm not listed on the lease?
   Usually, only tenants on the lease have rights under the Act. Occupants or guests may have limited protections.

How To: Manage Roommate Disputes in the NWT

1. How do I formally resolve a dispute with my roommate?
   First, try discussion or a written roommate agreement. If you cannot solve the problem, you may apply to the Rental Officer using Form 1.
2. How do I add or remove a roommate from the lease?
   Contact your landlord for written permission to amend the lease. A new lease or addendum may be required for changes.
3. How can I claim my share of the deposit if a roommate moves out?
   At move-out, request the landlord return the deposit as stated in your agreement, or work out the division among roommates. If necessary, apply to the Rental Officer for mediation.
4. What are the steps to give proper notice in a shared tenancy?
   Use Form 2 to give notice and provide a copy to the landlord and all co-tenants. Follow the correct time period stated in your lease and the Act.

Key Takeaways

• Clear agreements with all roommates and the landlord help avoid misunderstandings.
• Know your status: only tenants on the lease have legal rights under the Act.
• The Residential Tenancies Office can mediate and provide forms for resolving disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Northwest Territories Residential Tenancies Office: tenancy rights, forms, and mediation.
• Read the Residential Tenancies Act (NWT)
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories
• For individual legal advice, contact local legal aid clinics or tenant advocacy groups in the NWT.

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1. Northwest Territories Residential Tenancies Office: Official Website
2. Northwest Territories Residential Tenancies Act: Residential Tenancies Act (NWT)

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