Tenant Steps for Discrimination by Other Tenants in Northwest Territories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Northwest Territories published: June 20, 2025 Flag of Northwest Territories

Facing discrimination by other tenants can be distressing and difficult. If you rent in the Northwest Territories, you have rights to live free from unfair treatment based on race, gender, disability, or other protected grounds. Understanding the laws and your options can help you respond effectively and protect your safety and wellbeing.

Recognizing Discrimination From Other Tenants

Discrimination means being treated unfairly or harassed because of personal characteristics protected by law, such as:

  • Race, colour, or ethnic origin
  • Religion or creed
  • Sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation
  • Age
  • Marital or family status
  • Disability
  • Source of income

In the Northwest Territories, it is illegal for anyone, including other tenants, to interfere with your right to enjoy your home peacefully and without discrimination or harassment.[1]

Your Rights Under Northwest Territories Law

The Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories) protects all tenants. Section 10 of the Act guarantees the right to quiet enjoyment, which includes protection from harassment or unreasonable disturbances by others. In addition, the Northwest Territories Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination in housing based on the grounds listed above.[2]

What Can a Tenant Do?

If you believe another tenant is discriminating against you, you should take steps as soon as possible:

  • Document problem incidents (what happened, when, and who was involved)
  • Let your landlord know about the issue – the landlord has a duty to address discrimination or harassment in their building
  • Seek mediation if possible to resolve conflicts early
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If the discrimination does not stop, you may be able to file a formal complaint with the landlord or the appropriate tribunal.

How to File a Complaint about Discrimination

Follow these steps to address discrimination by another tenant in the Northwest Territories:

  • Notify Your Landlord in Writing: Explain the situation, provide details, and ask for their help to resolve the issue. Include your documentation as evidence.
  • Request Mediation: In some cases, informal dispute resolution or conversation may stop inappropriate behaviour.
  • If the Landlord Doesn't Act: If the problem continues, or your landlord does not help, you can escalate the matter.

You may also find helpful guidance in How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant’s Guide, which covers steps to raise concerns with your landlord or property manager.

Filing a Formal Complaint

There are two main places you can file a formal complaint:

  • Residential Tenancies Office (RTO): Handles problems about "quiet enjoyment," harassment, and tenant rights under the Residential Tenancies Act. Learn more about your options on their official website. To start a dispute, use the Application to the Rental Officer (Form NWT-ROT01).
  • Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission: Handles discrimination complaints under the Human Rights Act. Use the Complaint Form (Human Rights Commission) if the issue concerns a protected ground under the Act. Access forms and details here.

If your complaint is connected to other rights issues, such as repair delays or unsafe conditions, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them for broader support.

Helpful Forms for Tenants

Always keep copies of all forms and documentation you submit.

Tenant Resources and Further Reading

If you feel unsafe or threatened, contact local authorities or seek immediate support. Discrimination should never be tolerated in housing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tenant Discrimination

  1. What should I do first if another tenant discriminates against me?
    Start by recording incidents and notifying your landlord in writing. Keep details like dates, times, and what happened.
  2. Can my landlord be held responsible for discrimination by other tenants?
    If you inform your landlord and they do nothing, they may be responsible under the law for not addressing harassment or discrimination.
  3. What if the discrimination continues after I report it?
    You can file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Office or the Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission for further action.
  4. Does the Residential Tenancies Office deal with all discrimination complaints?
    The RTO can help with harassment and quiet enjoyment. For discrimination based on human rights, contact the Human Rights Commission.
  5. Where can I get help documenting and reporting discrimination?
    Contact local tenant advocacy groups or the Human Rights Commission for advice on documenting and building your case.

Key Takeaways

  • Discrimination from other tenants is against the law in the Northwest Territories
  • Document incidents, inform your landlord, and use official forms if needed
  • You have resources and support to help resolve the issue

Remember, you deserve safe and respectful housing. Quick action and clear documentation are your best tools.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

  1. [1]: Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories)
  2. [2]: Northwest Territories Human Rights Act

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

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