Can I be evicted from a care home without a written reason?

No. Care home landlords must provide a written Notice of Termination and specify a lawful reason. Unlawful or retaliatory evictions can be challenged at the Residential Tenancies Office.

Do I still have to pay a deposit in a seniors’ care home?

Yes. Landlords can require a deposit up to one month’s rent, following the same rules as regular rentals. The deposit must be held in trust and returned unless there is damage or unpaid rent.

What if the care home is not providing promised services?

Start by raising the issue in writing with your landlord or care home management. If the problem isn’t resolved promptly, you can file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Office.

How much notice do I need to give if I want to move out?

Typically, tenants must provide 30 days’ written notice, but check your agreement for any special terms. More notice may be needed if required by your contract.

Where can I get free advice or help if I have a dispute?

Contact the Residential Tenancies Office for advice and dispute resolution. Community legal clinics or tenant advocacy groups in the NWT can also help seniors with tenancy issues.

Seniors’ Tenant Rights in Northwest Territories Care Homes

Special Tenancy Situations Northwest Territories published: June 14, 2025

Seniors living in care homes in the Northwest Territories have unique legal protections and tenancy rights. Understanding these rights ensures older adults and their families can make informed decisions, address concerns about rent, eviction, or facility conditions, and maintain quality of life in a residential facility. This guide covers essential legal obligations and practical steps for seniors and their loved ones navigating care home tenancies in the Northwest Territories.

Care Home Tenancies: How Are They Different?

In the Northwest Territories, care home tenancies (sometimes called supported living, long-term care, or assisted living) fall under specific regulations and sections of the Residential Tenancies Act (NWT)^[1]. These differ from standard rental apartments because care homes provide personal or health care services in addition to housing. Some types of care homes—such as facilities that offer 24-hour nursing—may be subject to additional healthcare regulations alongside tenancy law.

Who Is Protected?

Seniors renting in designated supported living or assisted care facilities
Residents whose tenancy agreement includes housing with care services
Tenants paying rent for their own private or semi-private accommodation in a collective residence

It’s important to check the specific wording of your rental agreement. If you’re unsure whether landlord-tenant law applies, contact the Northwest Territories Residential Tenancies Office for clarification before signing any contract.

Main Rights and Responsibilities for Seniors in Care Homes

Both tenants and care home operators (landlords) have rights and responsibilities set out under the Residential Tenancies Act. Seniors living in care facilities retain core protections, including:

Security of Tenure: Landlords must follow required legal process to end a care home tenancy. Unlawful evictions are not allowed.
Right to Privacy: Landlords and staff must give proper notice before entering your unit, except in emergencies.
Written Agreements: Tenancy must be recorded in a written agreement outlining services, housing, rent, and notice requirements.
Rent Controls: Increases must be provided with written notice. Maximum frequency and processes are set by law.
Safe Living Standards: Landlords must maintain the facility in a safe, sanitary, and well-kept condition, including providing appropriate heating and repairs. For more information, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
Deposits: Landlords may require a security deposit (often called a "damage deposit") but must comply with legal limits and procedures. Learn more in Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Many seniors' care home tenancies include additional rules or policies that should not contradict tenant rights set by law.

Eviction Rules and Notice Periods for Seniors

Ending a care home tenancy involves specific forms and legal protections for seniors:

Notice to Terminate: Landlords must provide a written Notice of Termination (Form N1) with legally required notice periods. For most care homes in NWT, this is at least 30 days. View the official Form N1.
Reason for Termination: Common reasons include non-payment of rent, breach of agreement, or if a care facility can no longer provide required services. "Personal use" or extensive renovations are not typical reasons for ending care home tenancies.
Wrongful evictions can be disputed through the Residential Tenancies Office.

If a senior needs to end their tenancy (for example, due to a decline in health or moving closer to family), it is essential to provide the landlord with written notice as required by the agreement.

Filing a Complaint or Dispute

Residential Tenancies Office (RTO): If you believe your rights have been violated, you may apply to the RTO to resolve the dispute. The main form is the Tenant Application. View the Tenant Application form
The RTO will investigate, mediate, or hold a hearing, then issue a legally binding order.

For an overview of tenant and landlord responsibilities, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Deposits, Rent, and Service Fees

Landlords can request a rental deposit (damage deposit) up to one month’s rent. This must be placed in a trust account and returned (minus lawful deductions) when the tenancy ends. Some care homes may also require service fees for meal plans or support—these must be itemized in the tenancy agreement.

Ask for receipts for all payments.
Keep copies of your agreement and payment history.
Send written requests for returned deposits at move-out.

If you have concerns about refunds or charges, the RTO can assist in resolving disputes.

Summary of Key Protections for Seniors

You cannot be evicted without written legal notice.
Facility conditions, meals, and service quality must meet contractual and legal standards.
Rent increases require proper notice; extra charges must be transparent and justified.

Always read your tenancy agreement closely and keep all written communications. These documents are crucial if you need to make a complaint or defend your rights later.

More Resources for Seniors

Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories — quick facts and guides for tenants in the NWT
Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority: Care Homes
Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings

FAQs for Seniors in Care Home Tenancies in Northwest Territories

Can I be evicted from a care home without a written reason?
No. Care home landlords must provide a written Notice of Termination and specify a lawful reason. Unlawful or retaliatory evictions can be challenged at the Residential Tenancies Office.
Do I still have to pay a deposit in a seniors’ care home?
Yes. Landlords can require a deposit up to one month’s rent, following the same rules as regular rentals. The deposit must be held in trust and returned unless there is damage or unpaid rent.
What if the care home is not providing promised services?
Start by raising the issue in writing with your landlord or care home management. If the problem isn’t resolved promptly, you can file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Office.
How much notice do I need to give if I want to move out?
Typically, tenants must provide 30 days’ written notice, but check your agreement for any special terms. More notice may be needed if required by your contract.
Where can I get free advice or help if I have a dispute?
Contact the Residential Tenancies Office for advice and dispute resolution. Community legal clinics or tenant advocacy groups in the NWT can also help seniors with tenancy issues.

Conclusion: What Seniors in Care Homes Should Remember

Seniors in Northwest Territories care homes have specific legal protections under the Residential Tenancies Act.
Eviction and rent increase rules offer added security for vulnerable populations.
When problems arise, keeping records and contacting the Residential Tenancies Office can resolve most issues quickly and fairly.

Living in a care home doesn’t mean giving up your rights—stay informed and advocate for your needs and comfort.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Northwest Territories Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) – official dispute resolution and advice (call 1-855- 783-4301)
Legal Aid Northwest Territories – free and low-cost legal support
NTHSSA Care Home Services – support services for seniors