What are some examples of "misconduct" that can lead to eviction in the Northwest Territories?

Misconduct includes damaging the premises, disturbing neighbors, violating terms of the rental agreement, or engaging in illegal activity.

How much notice must my landlord provide for an eviction based on misconduct?

A landlord must usually give at least 10 days’ written notice, but check your notice and terms closely.

Do I have the right to dispute a misconduct eviction notice?

Yes, you can file Form 2 with the Rental Office to have the notice reviewed before the termination date.

What happens if I lose my eviction dispute?

If the outcome supports the landlord, you may be required to move out by a given date, with some options for appeal.

Can I stay in my unit while disputing a misconduct eviction?

Usually, you may stay until a Rental Officer's decision, unless there's an immediate order for possession.

Tenant Guide: Misconduct Allegations and Eviction in NWT

Evictions Northwest Territories published June 20, 2025

If you are a tenant in the Northwest Territories facing eviction because of misconduct allegations—such as disturbance, damage, or illegal activities—understanding your rights and next steps is crucial. The Northwest Territories Residential Tenancies Act sets out the legal process for eviction, your opportunities to respond, and how to seek help if you believe the allegations are unfair. This guide explains what to expect and what to do if you receive an eviction notice based on alleged misconduct.

Understanding Eviction for Misconduct in Northwest Territories

Landlords in the Northwest Territories can give a tenant a notice to terminate if they believe you have broken a significant rule in your tenancy—such as causing damage, disturbing others, or engaging in unlawful activity on the premises. It's important to know that receiving a notice does not mean you must move out immediately; you have legal rights and steps you can take to challenge or clarify the situation.

Key Legislation and Tribunal

Legislation: Residential Tenancies Act (NWT)
Tribunal: Rental Office of the Northwest Territories

You can find a summary of tenant rights and landlord rights for your region on Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

When Can You Be Evicted for Misconduct?

According to the Residential Tenancies Act, common grounds for eviction due to misconduct include:

Serious damage to the property
Repeated late rent payments
Disturbing neighbors or interfering with their enjoyment of the property
Illegal activities on the rental premises
Other significant breach of the rental agreement

The landlord must serve a written Notice of Termination explaining the reason. This is typically a 10 Day Notice to Terminate Tenancy for cause such as misconduct, but the specific timeline depends on the alleged breach.

Essential Steps After Receiving a Notice

Do not ignore the notice. You have the right to respond or dispute the allegations.
Carefully review the notice for details about the alleged misconduct, dates, and what evidence the landlord provides.
Document your side of the story—gather witnesses, photos, or communications that may help your case.

For more on tenant and landlord obligations, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

What Forms You May Encounter

Notice to Terminate Tenancy (Form 1)

When to Use: Landlords use this form to formally notify tenants of eviction, typically for cause (e.g., misconduct). The notice must include the grounds for termination and the termination date.

Where to Find: You can view and download Form 1 on the NWT Rental Office – Form 1: Notice to Terminate Tenancy page.

What to Do: If you receive this form, carefully check the reason for eviction, your move-out date, and the legal basis. If you disagree, you must apply to the Rental Office to challenge the notice (see steps below).

Application for Orders (Form 2)

When to Use: Tenants use this form to ask the Rental Officer to review an eviction notice or to resolve a dispute.
Where to Find: NWT Rental Office – Form 2: Application for Orders
Example: If you believe the misconduct allegations are unfounded or the eviction unfair, fill out and submit this form as soon as possible.

How to Respond: Challenging Misconduct Eviction Allegations

You do not automatically have to move out unless the landlord obtains an order of possession from the Rental Officer. If you disagree with the notice:

Communicate promptly with your landlord to try to resolve the issue directly
If that fails, complete Form 2: Application for Orders and submit to the Rental Office
Attend your scheduled hearing. Prepare evidence and bring any supporting witnesses

The Rental Officer will hear both sides and make a binding decision. If you were not at fault, the eviction may be overturned.

Take action quickly. You must apply to dispute the notice before the termination date. If you need advice, contact a local tenant support organization or the Rental Office for guidance.

For general tips on resolving issues, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

What Happens If You Don’t Respond?

If you do not submit Form 2 or take action before the end of the notice period, you could lose your right to challenge the eviction. The landlord may then apply for an order to have you removed and, if necessary, enforcement by the sheriff.

Remember, whether you are moving out or disputing the termination, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings to compare local options and find your next home confidently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some examples of "misconduct" that can lead to eviction in the Northwest Territories?
Misconduct can include damaging the rental unit, disturbing neighbors, disobeying the rental agreement, or engaging in illegal activity on the premises.
How much notice must my landlord provide for an eviction based on misconduct?
Typically, a landlord must give at least 10 days’ written notice, but this can vary with the situation. Check the notice date and form carefully.
Do I have the right to dispute a misconduct eviction notice?
Yes, you can dispute the notice by filing Form 2 with the Rental Office before the termination date.
What happens if I lose my eviction dispute?
If the Rental Officer upholds the notice, you may be ordered to move out by a set date. You can ask about appeal options if you feel the decision is wrong.
Can I stay in my unit while disputing a misconduct eviction?
Generally, you can stay until the Rental Office makes a final decision, unless the landlord receives an immediate order for possession due to severe issues.

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

If you receive an eviction notice for alleged misconduct, you have the right to respond—don’t ignore it.
File Form 2 to dispute if you believe the notice is unfair; act quickly.
Seek advice from local resources or legal support, and review your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act.

Protect your rights by documenting your case and responding within all deadlines. Support is available if you need guidance through this process.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Rental Office of the Northwest Territories – Information, forms, and dispute filing
Phone: 1-867-767-9256 ext. 15262 or Email: rentaloffice@gov.nt.ca
Residential Tenancies Act (official legislation)
See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories for more details
Tenant support groups (local legal clinics or housing advocates may also offer assistance)

Official Residential Tenancies Act (NWT): View Act
Rental Office of the Northwest Territories: Rental Office Website
Notice to Terminate Tenancy: Form 1 PDF
Application for Orders: Form 2 PDF