Winter in the Northwest Territories brings unique snow and ice risks for renters. This guide explains practical steps tenants can take to stay safe, how to document hazards, and when to ask a landlord or the territory to act. It covers common tenant and landlord responsibilities, how to submit complaints or requests, and which official resources and forms to use so you know your rights and can reduce slip-and-fall risks in and around your rental home.
Who is responsible for snow and ice?
Landlords in the Northwest Territories generally have a duty to keep common areas safe and reasonably clear of ice and snow. Tenants usually must keep private walkways to their entrance reasonably clear and report hazards promptly to the landlord. If a dispute arises about who should clear a specific area, contact the Residential Tenancies Office for guidance and possible dispute resolution.[2] You can also consult the territorys legislation for details on obligations and remedies.[1]
Practical steps tenants should take
- Report icy entrances and walkways to your landlord as soon as you notice them and follow up in writing.
- Keep your private entryway reasonably clear of snow and ice if that is in your lease or communicated by the landlord.
- Call or email the landlord immediately for urgent hazards and keep copies of messages and photos as evidence.
- Avoid direct confrontation; request repairs or clearing in writing and include dates, times and photos.
- Log all communications and actions you take to reduce risk, such as spreading salt or sand, with timestamps and photos.
What landlords should provide and tenants should expect
Landlords should maintain common walkways, stairs and entry lighting to meet basic habitability standards. Tenants should expect clear communication about winter maintenance plans, access for contractors, and safe entry points. When a landlord contracts winter services, ask who is responsible for timely clearing and where documentation is kept.
How to file a formal request or dispute
Start by sending a clear written request to your landlord describing the hazard, attaching photos, and requesting action within a reasonable time. If the landlord does not respond, you may apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for dispute resolution or follow official complaint procedures.[2]
Required forms and when to use them
- Notice to Terminate a Tenancy (example name): use when a tenancy ends due to unaddressed safety or habitability issues; include dates, attempts to resolve, and photos.
- Residential Tenancies Application Form (dispute application): use this to ask the Director or office to resolve unpaid repairs or unsafe conditions after you have notified the landlord.
Both forms and related instructions are available from the Residential Tenancies Office website and should be completed following the guidance on that official page.[2]
When to get help or emergency services
- If there is an immediate danger such as blocked fire exits or severe ice creating imminent risk, call local emergency services first.
- For non-urgent but unsafe conditions, use the Residential Tenancies Office or the landlord contact channels to request action.
Tenant tips to lower risk
- Wear shoes with good grip and carry salt or sand to temporarily reduce slip risks for your doorway.
- Keep dated photos and a short timeline of communications to support any formal complaint.
- Use clear, polite written requests and keep copies; escalate to the Residential Tenancies Office if the landlord does not respond.
FAQ
- Who is responsible for clearing snow on shared walkways?
- Generally the landlord is responsible for common areas; check your lease for specific clauses and report hazards in writing to the landlord.
- Can I clear snow myself and deduct the cost from rent?
- Do not deduct costs without following official procedures; contact the Residential Tenancies Office for guidance before withholding rent or making deductions.
- What evidence helps if I apply for dispute resolution?
- Photos with dates, copies of written requests to your landlord, witness statements and any receipts for temporary measures are the most helpful evidence.
How-To
- Identify and document the hazard with a photo and short note about time and location.
- Notify your landlord immediately in writing and attach the photo and a request for action.
- If there is no reasonable response, apply to the Residential Tenancies Office with your documentation.
- Follow any orders or recommended steps from the Office and keep copies of all communications until the issue is resolved.
Key Takeaways
- Report hazards promptly and keep dated photos and written records.
- Landlords usually handle common areas; tenants should follow lease terms for private paths.
- Use the Residential Tenancies Office if the landlord does not remedy unsafe snow and ice conditions.
Help and Support / Resources
- Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories
- Residential Tenancies Office, Government of the Northwest Territories
- Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories)
