Tips to Avoid Eviction in Northwest Territories

Facing eviction can be stressful for tenants in the Northwest Territories, but understanding your rights, responsibilities, and available options can help you avoid losing your home. This resource will guide you through key steps to prevent eviction and point you to official support and forms you may need as a renter.

Understanding Eviction in Northwest Territories

Eviction means your landlord is asking you to leave your rental home, either for legal reasons or because an agreement has ended. In the Northwest Territories, your landlord must follow proper rules and use official forms before requiring you to move out.

Evictions are regulated by the Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories) and all disputes are handled by the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO).^[1]

Common Reasons for Eviction

• Not paying rent on time (non-payment of rent)
• Frequent late payments
• Causing significant damage to the property
• Disturbing other tenants or breaking the rental agreement
• The landlord needs the unit for personal use (with notice)

Understanding what can and cannot lead to eviction helps you recognize if a notice is valid. Learn more about your rights and obligations in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Act Quickly if You Receive a Notice

Always read any eviction notice carefully. Notices must be written, state the reason for eviction, and use proper forms. If you disagree or need more time, you have options:

• Contact your landlord right away to discuss the issue
• Correct the reason for eviction (e.g., pay overdue rent, repair damage)
• Apply to the Residential Tenancies Office if you believe the notice is unfair

Key Official Forms You Might Use

• Termination Notice (Form A): Used by landlords to end a tenancy for reasons like non-payment of rent. If you receive Form A, you might still be able to stay if you quickly address the problem. View Form A
• Application to the Rentals Officer (Form J): Use this form if you wish to dispute an eviction or if you need help enforcing your rights as a tenant. Fill it out and submit it to the Residential Tenancies Office. View Form J

If you're unsure which form to use, contact the Residential Tenancies Office directly for guidance.

Proactive Steps to Prevent Eviction

Avoiding eviction is often possible by taking quick and practical steps.

• Pay rent on time: If you run into financial difficulties, speak to your landlord before rent is late. Partial payment with a plan is better than no payment at all. For more, see Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.
• Communicate any problems: If repairs are needed or there are issues with neighbours, raise them promptly and in writing. See How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant’s Guide.
• Follow your rental agreement: Know what your lease says about noise, guests, and property care.
• Keep records: Save copies of payments, messages, and any forms you send or receive.

What Happens If an Eviction Case Goes to the Tribunal?

Disputes are handled by the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO). A Rentals Officer will listen to both you and your landlord before making a decision. You have the right to explain your side and present evidence.

Summary

By knowing your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act and acting quickly, you can often stay in your home. For more information, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do immediately after receiving an eviction notice?
   Read the notice, check the reason and dates, and contact your landlord or the Residential Tenancies Office right away for guidance. Taking early action gives you more options.
2. Can I stop the eviction if I pay my overdue rent?
   In many cases, yes—especially if the eviction is for non-payment. Contact your landlord and make the payment as soon as possible. Keep receipts.
3. Is a landlord allowed to evict me without a reason?
   No. Your landlord needs a lawful reason under the Residential Tenancies Act and must give proper written notice.
4. Where do I get official forms to dispute an eviction?
   All forms are available from the Residential Tenancies Office website or their offices in Yellowknife, NT.
5. What if I need help understanding my rights?
   Contact the Residential Tenancies Office or a local tenant advocacy service for free information and support.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Office (Northwest Territories): Phone 1-867-767-9256 ext. 15260 or visit the office in Yellowknife for advice, forms, and hearings.
• Residential Tenancies Act (NWT): Full Legislation Text
• Tenant support organizations: Legal Aid Northwest Territories offers free advice to tenants facing eviction (call or visit your local Legal Aid office).

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1. Northwest Territories Residential Tenancies Act
2. Residential Tenancies Office (NWT)
3. Termination Notice (Form A) | Application to the Rentals Officer (Form J)

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