What to do first
Start by reading the tribunal order carefully to note required actions, dates, and who is responsible. If the order names a specific deadline, mark it and act before or on that date. Contact your landlord in writing to remind them of the order and ask for confirmation they will comply. Keep copies of all messages and delivery receipts, and note phone calls with time, date and summary.[1]
- Check the order for deadlines and any conditions you must meet.
- Contact the landlord in writing and keep proof of delivery.
- Gather evidence: photos, videos, repair requests and rent receipts.
Official forms and how to file
The Northwest Territories residential tenancy office provides official forms to request enforcement or to file follow-up applications. Use the enforcement application when a landlord fails to comply after the order deadline; include a copy of the original order and your evidence. If you served notices or delivered documents, attach proof of service. Forms and submission instructions are available from the territorial office and must be completed as directed.[2]
- Enforcement application: use this to ask the tribunal to enforce an existing order; example: file after the landlord misses a repair deadline.
- Proof of service or delivery form: shows you gave the landlord required documents and when.
Enforcement options
The tribunal can often issue compliance directions or order penalties when a landlord ignores its decision. If tribunal measures are insufficient, tenants may pursue court-based enforcement for monetary awards or garnishment; speak with legal aid or a community clinic for help. For general rights information, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories. For help preparing complaints and evidence, consult How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant's Guide.
- Request a compliance hearing to ask the tribunal to order enforcement or to impose sanctions.
- Ask the tribunal how orders are enforced and whether a sheriff or enforcement officer will be involved.
- Consider court enforcement for monetary orders, including small claims, with legal advice.
What if the landlord still won’t comply
If the landlord still fails to act after enforcement steps, you can escalate to court for money owed, seek orders for repairs, or ask the tribunal to report non-compliance. In urgent safety or lockout situations, contact police or emergency services. If you need to find alternate housing while the matter is resolved, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
FAQ
- Can the tribunal force a landlord to comply with an order?
- Yes. The tribunal can issue compliance directions and order penalties or remedies; tenants can file an enforcement application with the territorial residential tenancy office.
- How long does enforcement usually take?
- Timelines vary by case but expect several weeks for administrative steps; urgent matters may be expedited depending on risk and harm.
- Do I need a lawyer to enforce a tribunal order?
- Not always. Many tenants file enforcement applications themselves, though legal advice helps for complex or court-based enforcement.
How-To
- Review the tribunal order and note any deadlines or conditions.
- Collect evidence: photos, dated repair requests, and rent records.
- Complete and submit the enforcement application form with attachments.
- Attend any scheduled compliance hearing and present your evidence clearly.
- Follow up in writing after the hearing and request a written enforcement order if granted.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies, Government of the Northwest Territories
- Residential Tenancies forms and guides
