Who is responsible if my fridge or stove breaks?

In most cases, landlords must repair or replace appliances included with your rental. If you caused the damage, you may be responsible for the cost.

Can my landlord charge me for repairs?

Landlords can only charge for repairs if you, your guests, or your pets caused damage beyond normal wear and tear.

What can I do if repairs aren't done?

If your landlord ignores repair requests, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office using Form 2 to request an order requiring the landlord to complete the work.

Are there time limits on emergency repairs?

Emergencies must be addressed as soon as possible. Keep written proof of your repair requests and response time.

Should I keep a record of all communications about repairs?

Yes, always keep written records, emails, photos, and receipts to protect yourself.

Top 5 Maintenance & Repair Facts for Tenants in Northwest Territories

Maintenance & Repairs Northwest Territories published July 01, 2025

As a tenant in the Northwest Territories, understanding how maintenance and repairs are handled is essential to ensuring your home is safe and comfortable. The rules of maintenance and repair are clearly set out in local tenancy laws, but it’s common to have questions about what you and your landlord are each responsible for, and how to get things fixed when something goes wrong. This guide highlights the top 5 things every tenant in the Northwest Territories should know, including key steps to protect your legal rights and keep your home in good condition.

1. Know Your Rights and Responsibilities

Both tenants and landlords share responsibility for maintenance and repairs. The Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories) requires landlords to keep rental units in a good state of repair, fit for habitation and compliant with health and housing standards^[1]. Tenants are expected to keep their home clean and notify their landlord about any needed repairs as soon as possible.

Landlords: Responsible for repairs to major systems (heating, plumbing, electrical), structural problems, and anything that makes the unit unhealthy or unsafe.
Tenants: Must not intentionally damage the rental, must keep it reasonably clean, and inform the landlord in writing if repairs are needed.

For more info on shared responsibilities, check Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

2. Requesting Repairs: The Proper Process

If something needs fixing, always notify your landlord in writing. Keep a copy of your request for your records. Be specific about the problem and when it started. In most cases, landlords must address repairs as soon as reasonably possible, especially for essential services like heat, power, or water.

If the landlord fails to act, you can apply for an order through the Office of the Rental Officer (Northwest Territories Residential Tenancies Office).

Key Form: Application to Rental Officer (Form 2)

Form Name: Application to the Rental Officer (Form 2)
When Used: If repairs are not done after you've made a formal request, use this form to ask the Rental Officer for help.
How to Use: Complete the form describing the issue and what you’ve done to resolve it. Submit it to the Residential Tenancies Office. Official Form 2 (PDF)

3. Emergency Repairs: Acting Fast

Emergencies—such as loss of heat in winter, water leaks, or unsafe conditions—require urgent repairs. If the landlord cannot be reached in an emergency, the Residential Tenancies Act allows tenants to arrange emergency repairs and seek reimbursement. Always keep receipts and document your attempt to contact your landlord.

You can also learn more about urgent repairs in Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

4. Routine Maintenance vs. Damage

Routine maintenance involves normal upkeep (like cleaning, minor fixes, changing lightbulbs). Damage goes beyond normal wear and tear and may result in you being responsible for repair costs. If you’re not sure what qualifies as "damage,” ask your landlord or consult the Residential Tenancies Office.

More on this topic: Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

5. Protecting Your Deposit and Rights

Maintaining your unit matters when it’s time to move out. If you leave the rental clean and in good condition (beyond expected wear and tear), you are entitled to your security deposit back. If there is a dispute about damage or cleanliness, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for a resolution.

Tip: Always document the condition of your rental when you move in and out—photos and checklists are very helpful for avoiding disputes.

For more about your rights and general housing standards specific to the Northwest Territories, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

FAQ: Tenants & Repairs in Northwest Territories

Who is responsible if my fridge or stove breaks?
In most cases, landlords must repair or replace appliances included with your rental. If you caused the damage, you may be responsible for the cost.
Can my landlord charge me for repairs?
Landlords can only charge for repairs if you, your guests, or your pets caused damage beyond normal wear and tear.
What can I do if repairs aren't done?
If your landlord ignores repair requests, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office using Form 2 to request an order requiring the landlord to complete the work.
Are there time limits on emergency repairs?
Emergencies must be addressed as soon as possible. Keep written proof of your repair requests and response time.
Should I keep a record of all communications about repairs?
Yes, always keep written records, emails, photos, and receipts to protect yourself.

How To: Steps for Tenants to Report and Resolve Repair Issues

How do I request a repair from my landlord?
Write to your landlord, describe the problem, and keep a copy. For urgent issues, call and send a follow-up email or letter.
What should I do if my landlord won’t fix the problem?
Submit Form 2 to the Residential Tenancies Office, including all records and evidence of your requests.
How do I recover money for emergency repairs?
Submit receipts to your landlord first. If not reimbursed, file an application with the Rental Officer including evidence that the repair was urgent and you attempted to contact your landlord.

Key Takeaways

Always report repair and maintenance issues in writing to your landlord and keep records.
Landlords are responsible for major repairs; you are responsible for regular cleaning and minor upkeep.
For unresolved or emergency repairs, apply to the Residential Tenancies Office using the appropriate form.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Northwest Territories Residential Tenancies Office (Rental Officer) – Main authority for tenant-landlord disputes and repair issues
Full Residential Tenancies Act (NWT)
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