Do I have to pay a security deposit in Northwest Territories?

Most landlords require a security deposit, but it cannot exceed one month's rent. This must be returned within 10 days of moving out if there's no damage or unpaid rent.

How much notice must my landlord give to increase the rent?

Your landlord must give you at least 3 months' written notice before raising the rent, and increases are allowed only once every 12 months.

What can I do if my landlord won't make repairs?

Start by notifying your landlord in writing. If repairs aren't done, you can apply to the Rental Officer using the Application to the Rental Officer (Form NWT-RTA-01).

How do I end my tenancy in the Northwest Territories?

Provide your landlord with a completed Notice to Terminate Tenancy form and give the required notice as outlined in your lease (usually 30 days).

What if I get an eviction notice I believe is unfair?

You can dispute the notice by filing an Application to the Rental Officer before the effective eviction date.

Step-by-Step Help for Tenant Rights in Northwest Territories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Northwest Territories published July 01, 2025

Living as a tenant in the Northwest Territories brings unique rights and responsibilities protected by local laws. Whether you're facing a rent increase, repairs, eviction notice, or a dispute with your landlord, knowing the right steps to take can help you solve common rental issues effectively. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step approach to understanding and addressing tenant rights and responsibilities across the Northwest Territories.

Your Rights & Responsibilities as a Tenant in Northwest Territories

Tenants and landlords in the Northwest Territories are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act (NWT)^[1]. The Act protects your home and sets out clear rules about rent, repairs, deposits, and more. Both parties have important obligations:

Tenants: Pay rent on time, keep the unit reasonably clean, and not disturb neighbours.
Landlords: Maintain the rental in a good state of repair, follow legal rent increase procedures, and respect tenant privacy.

If you want more detail about these obligations, refer to Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Common Issues Tenants Face

Issues like late repairs, unhealthy living conditions, or misunderstandings about deposits are common. It's important to address problems quickly and keep records. For an overview, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Step-by-Step: Addressing a Tenant Problem in NWT

1. Document the Issue: Take photos, keep emails, and make notes of conversations about the problem.
2. Notify Your Landlord: Write a clear, dated letter or email describing the issue and what you need fixed.
3. Give Reasonable Time: Allow your landlord a fair amount of time to respond or repair (usually 10 days for basic issues; sooner for emergencies).
4. Follow Up: If nothing happens, send another written request. State your next steps if not resolved.
5. Apply to the Rental Office: If talks fail, fill out a Residential Tenancy Application to have the issue formally reviewed.

Important Forms for Tenants in Northwest Territories

Application to the Rental Officer (Form NWT-RTA-01): Use this form to resolve disputes over repairs, deposits, rent increases, or notices. Example: If your landlord won't fix a broken furnace after repeated requests, fill out this form to have the Rental Officer step in. Get the form here.
Notice to Terminate Tenancy: Used when ending your tenancy—either as a tenant or landlord. Make sure you give the right amount of notice (usually 30 days for month-to-month rentals). Download the tenant notice form.
Demand for Return of Security Deposit: Use this if your landlord does not return your deposit within 10 days of moving out. See security deposit form.

Rental Deposits, Repairs & Rent Increases

Security deposits are limited to one month's rent and must be returned within 10 days of your move-out (unless there are deductions). For a deep dive, visit Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Routine repairs are the landlord's responsibility unless you caused the damage. If something breaks, report it in writing. For detailed info, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

Landlords can increase rent only once every 12 months, and must provide at least 3 months' written notice. If you believe a rent increase is unfair, you can challenge it through the Rental Office. See the official NWT Rent Increase Factsheet for more information.

Understanding Eviction Notices

If you receive a Notice to Terminate Tenancy, read it carefully. Common reasons include unpaid rent, damage, or repeated late payments. You have the right to respond or dispute the notice using the Application to the Rental Officer. Never ignore an eviction notice—acting quickly is key.

Provincial Tribunal Information

All disputes and tenant applications are handled by the Northwest Territories Rental Office. They provide forms, mediation, and decisions for rental issues. The Rental Officer has the legal authority to enforce decisions under the Residential Tenancies Act.

Tip: Always keep copies of all notices, forms, and correspondence for your records. This will help you if you need to apply to the Rental Office or defend your rights.

For general legal information and overviews, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories. Looking for your next home? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme easily with trusted listings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay a security deposit in Northwest Territories?
Most landlords require a security deposit, but it cannot exceed one month's rent. This must be returned within 10 days of moving out if there's no damage or unpaid rent.
How much notice must my landlord give to increase the rent?
Your landlord must give you at least 3 months' written notice before raising the rent, and increases are allowed only once every 12 months.
What can I do if my landlord won't make repairs?
Start by notifying your landlord in writing. If repairs aren't done, you can apply to the Rental Officer using the Application to the Rental Officer (Form NWT-RTA-01).
How do I end my tenancy in the Northwest Territories?
Provide your landlord with a completed Notice to Terminate Tenancy form and give the required notice as outlined in your lease (usually 30 days).
What if I get an eviction notice I believe is unfair?
You can dispute the notice by filing an Application to the Rental Officer before the effective eviction date.

How-To: Solve Common Tenant Problems in Northwest Territories

How do I challenge a rent increase in the Northwest Territories?
Carefully review your rent increase notice. If you believe it's not legal, respond to your landlord with a written objection and file an Application to the Rental Officer if needed.
How do I get my security deposit back?
After moving out, send your forwarding address to your landlord. If the deposit isn't returned within 10 days, use the Demand for Return of Security Deposit form and apply to the Rental Officer if necessary.
How do I properly end my tenancy?
Give written notice using the official Notice to Terminate Tenancy form, ensuring you meet the proper notice period as set by your tenancy agreement.

Key Takeaways

Always put rental issues and requests in writing.
The Northwest Territories Rental Office is your go-to authority for disputes and forms.
Know your notice periods for rent increases and ending tenancies.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Northwest Territories Rental Office: Tenant resources, forms, and dispute resolution
Residential Tenancies Act (NWT): Full legislation text
NWT Association of Communities - Housing Support: Advocacy and support
Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories: Provincial tenant law facts