Does my landlord have to clear snow from the sidewalk?

If your rental agreement does not assign snow removal to you as the tenant, your landlord is responsible for clearing snow, especially if required by municipal bylaws.

Can my landlord make me do yard work?

Only if your lease or rental agreement specifically states that you are responsible for yard work. Otherwise, the landlord handles it.

What should I do if snow isn't cleared and it's unsafe?

Notify your landlord in writing. If they do not address the issue, apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for dispute resolution.

Who gets fined if snow is not removed?

Typically, the property owner (landlord) is fined, unless the lease puts this duty on the tenant and your city enforces this.

Is outdoor maintenance included in my rent?

Unless your lease says otherwise, snow removal and lawn care duties fall to the landlord as part of your rent.

Snow Removal & Lawn Care Responsibilities for Northwest Territories Tenants

Moving In / Out Northwest Territories published: June 13, 2025

When moving into a rental property in the Northwest Territories, it's important for tenants and landlords alike to understand who is responsible for outdoor upkeep, such as snow removal and lawn care. The long winters and unique seasonal challenges in the territory make this topic especially relevant for safe and enjoyable living.

Outdoor Maintenance in Northwest Territories Rentals

Responsibility for snow removal and lawn care is not automatically assigned in rental law. Instead, these duties are typically determined by the terms outlined in your rental agreement or lease. However, tenants and landlords should be aware of their legal obligations and the potential impact on health, safety, and access.

What the Law Says

In the Northwest Territories, rental relationships are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act (NWT)^[1]. While the legislation does not specify who must handle snow removal or lawn care, it does require landlords to keep rental premises in a good state of repair and comply with health and safety standards.

Landlords must ensure the property meets all safety and municipal bylaw requirements.
Tenants must keep the rental unit clean and not cause damage, but external maintenance must be stated in the lease to become a tenant responsibility.

Who Usually Handles Snow Removal?

In the Northwest Territories, winter brings heavy and persistent snow. For multi-unit buildings, landlords or property management usually arrange for snow removal in parking lots and walkways to ensure everyone can access their homes safely. However, for single-family homes or duplexes:

If your lease or rental agreement assigns snow removal to the tenant, you will be responsible for clearing designated walkways, driveways, or other areas described in your agreement.
If the lease is silent, responsibility falls on the landlord by default, especially if municipal bylaws impose fines for uncleared snow.
Check your local municipality’s rules, as fines may be issued to the property owner (often the landlord) if snow is not removed from public sidewalks in a timely manner.

What About Lawn Care?

Grass cutting, garden maintenance, and general yard care responsibilities should also be clearly outlined in your tenancy agreement. Without this explicit clause, the landlord remains responsible. Tenants can agree (usually in exchange for a lower rent or mutual agreement) to take on yard work, but this must be in writing.

Routine outdoor maintenance by tenants often includes mowing the lawn, weeding, and watering if the tenancy agreement requires it.
Major work (like tree removal or significant landscaping) remains the landlord's responsibility unless otherwise agreed.

Always read your lease or rental agreement carefully. If outdoor tasks like snow removal or lawn care are assigned to you, make sure these areas are safe and accessible to avoid slips, falls, or municipal bylaw violations.

Health and Safety Considerations

Proper snow removal and lawn maintenance are vital for health and safety. Uncleared snow and ice can lead to slips, while neglected lawns may attract pests. Both tenants and landlords should understand how these duties impact their rental relationship. For more on staying safe, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

What If There’s a Dispute?

If you're unsure or disagree about who should handle outdoor care, start by reviewing your lease. If issues continue, the Northwest Territories Residential Tenancies Office can offer guidance and dispute resolution services. For a practical look at landlord/tenant roles, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Forms and How to Address Issues

There are no specific official forms in the Northwest Territories strictly for snow removal or lawn care issues. However, if you have concerns about maintenance or safety, you can use the following:

Application for Dispute Resolution – Use this form to ask the Residential Tenancies Office for help resolving landlord-tenant disagreements, including those involving outdoor maintenance. Official application form.
Notice to Remedy Defect – If your landlord is not meeting obligations (for example, not clearing snow as required), provide written notice outlining the concern and a reasonable deadline to fix it.

To submit the Application for Dispute Resolution, fill out the form with details about your concern. Submit it directly to the Residential Tenancies Office by mail or email as described on their official website.

Summary Table: Who Does What?

Task	If in Lease	If Not Specified
Snow Removal	Responsibility as per agreement	Landlord responsible
Lawn Care	Responsibility as per agreement	Landlord responsible

This table summarizes the typical assignment of outdoor maintenance tasks based on what's in your rental agreement.

To further understand your rights in the territory, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

For those considering a move, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for easy apartment and house searching with map view and up-to-date listings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my landlord have to clear snow from the sidewalk?
It depends on your rental agreement. If it doesn’t assign snow removal to you, your landlord is responsible, particularly if local bylaws require timely snow clearing.
Can my landlord ask me to do yard work?
Yes, but only if you agree and it’s stated clearly in the lease. Otherwise, lawn care remains a landlord's duty.
What if there’s a safety risk because snow isn’t cleared?
Inform your landlord in writing promptly. If the issue isn’t addressed, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for dispute resolution.
Can I be fined by the city for not shoveling snow?
Municipalities may issue fines, but usually to the property owner (the landlord). However, if your lease makes you responsible, city enforcement is possible. Always confirm your agreement and check local rules.
Is outdoor maintenance included in my rent?
Unless your lease says otherwise, snow removal and lawn care are part of your rent and should be handled by the landlord.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tenants

Always check your lease for snow removal and lawn care clauses.
Landlords are responsible by default if your agreement is silent.
Keep communication open and put concerns in writing for best results.

Understanding your responsibilities can help you avoid disputes and ensure a safe, comfortable rental experience in the Northwest Territories.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Northwest Territories Residential Tenancies Office: Residential Tenancies Office – official tribunal for landlord/tenant disputes.
Read the Residential Tenancies Act (NWT) for complete legal details.
For more support, contact local tenant advocacy services or community legal clinics in your area.

Residential Tenancies Act (NWT): View the full legislation
Residential Tenancies Office (NWT): Official government resource
Application for Dispute Resolution (Form): Download from NT Justice Website