Top 5 Things Tenants Must Know About Rent & Deposits in Northwest Territories

Renting a home in the Northwest Territories comes with several important rules regarding rent payments, deposits, and your rights as a tenant. Whether you're moving into your first rental or facing questions about rent increases or your security deposit, understanding these rules can help you protect your finances and ensure a positive rental experience. This guide, tailored for tenants in the Northwest Territories, explains the top five things you need to know about rents and deposits—and how to deal with common situations.

1. Your Rent and Deposit Are Protected by Law

In the Northwest Territories, all rules for renting are set by the Rental Office under the Residential Tenancies Act^[1]. Your landlord must provide a written tenancy agreement that clearly states your rent, deposit amount, and any other charges.

• Maximum Deposit: Landlords can ask for a security deposit up to one month’s rent.
• Deposits must be placed in a trust account and are refundable unless the landlord has a legal reason (such as unpaid rent or damages) to keep part of it.
• You are entitled to a receipt for any rent or deposit paid.

For a deeper explanation, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

2. When and How to Pay Rent

Rent is usually paid monthly, on the same day each month, as set in your tenancy agreement. If you pay rent late, your landlord must follow legal notice rules before taking further action, like starting an eviction.

• Always get a written receipt for every rent payment.
• If your landlord accepts a partial payment with conditions, ask for those terms in writing.

Learn more about secure payment and your rights in our Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

3. Rules for Security Deposits and Refunds

Security deposits are meant to cover only unpaid rent or damages—never for normal "wear and tear" (the minor damage caused by everyday living). After you move out:

• Your landlord must refund your deposit, minus any lawful deductions, within 10 days.
• They must give you an itemized statement if any money is withheld.

Official Form — Security Deposit Refund Application:

• Form: Application for Return of Security Deposit (Form 12)
• When to Use: If the landlord fails to return your security deposit in full (or a statement of deductions) within 10 days after your tenancy ends.
• How to Use: Submit the completed Form 12 to the Rental Office. Include proof of payment and any correspondence.
• Download Form 12 — Application for Return of Security Deposit

4. Rent Increases: What Landlords Can—and Cannot—Do

Landlords in the Northwest Territories can raise your rent, but only if they provide written notice at least three months before the increase takes effect.

• Rent can only be increased once every 12 months.
• If you think your rent increase is unfair or unlawful, you can apply to the Rental Office for a review.
• A rent increase notice must include the new amount, date the increase starts, and be served properly (in person or by registered mail).

More information can be found in Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know.

5. Know Your Rights—and Where to Get Help

The Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories page covers your legal protections as a renter. If you have a problem with unpaid deposit refunds, rent disputes, or other issues, you have options for formal complaint or dispute resolution through the Rental Officer.

If you're searching for your next home or moving within the territory, you can Browse apartments for rent in Canada to find affordable listings suited to your needs.

1. What is the maximum security deposit a landlord can charge in the Northwest Territories?
   Landlords can charge up to one month’s rent as a security deposit. This must be placed in a trust account and returned (minus lawful deductions) within 10 days of your tenancy ending.
2. How soon must landlords return my deposit after I move out?
   Your landlord must return the deposit within 10 days after you vacate. If deductions are made, you must receive a statement explaining them.
3. What should I do if my landlord doesn’t return my security deposit?
   Use the "Application for Return of Security Deposit (Form 12)" to apply to the Rental Office for help recovering your deposit.
4. Can my rent be increased anytime?
   No. Rent can only be increased once every 12 months and only with three months’ written notice.
5. Where can I learn more about my rights as a tenant in Northwest Territories?
   You can visit the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories page for a comprehensive overview.

1. How do I apply for the return of my security deposit in Northwest Territories?
   Download and complete Form 12 (Application for Return of Security Deposit) from the Government of Northwest Territories website. Attach evidence that the deposit was paid and, if possible, proof you’ve asked your landlord for the refund. Submit the form to the Rental Office for a decision.
2. How can I challenge a rent increase I believe is unfair?
   Gather all relevant documents (your tenancy agreement, notice of rent increase) and apply to the Rental Office within a reasonable time frame, explaining why you believe the increase is unjustified.
3. What documents should I keep to protect myself as a tenant?
   Keep your tenancy agreement, all rent and deposit receipts, written correspondence, and copies of any forms you submit or receive. These will help support your case if a dispute arises.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Rental Office (Northwest Territories): Official site - dispute resolution, forms, and contact details
• Download all official rental forms
• See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories for additional legal resources
• For help with housing emergencies, contact the NWT Homelessness Initiatives

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1. [1] Northwest Territories Residential Tenancies Act (Full Text - PDF)
2. [2] Northwest Territories Rental Office
3. [3] NWT Official Tenancy Forms

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