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
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
- Application to the Rental Officer (Form NWT-ROT01): Use this to formally request the Rental Officer to address issues like harassment or interference with reasonable enjoyment. Download from the Department of Justice.
- Human Rights Complaint Form: Submit if you believe your rights have been breached. Access the form and guide on the Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission website. Examples include being targeted due to race, religion, or other protected grounds by another tenant.
Always keep copies of all forms and documentation you submit.
Tenant Resources and Further Reading
- Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories – Summary of local rental laws and rights
- Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings to find safe homes and explore options if you decide a move is best
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
- 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. - 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. - 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. - 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. - 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
- Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) – Information, forms, and guidance for tenants (toll-free: 1-800-661-0760 ext. 82135)
- Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission – Make a human rights complaint, get support, and learn more about your rights
- Local tenant advocacy organizations and community legal clinics
