Who regulates residential leases in Northwest Territories?
The Residential Tenancy Office (RTO) manages tenancy laws in the Northwest Territories.
What law covers leases in Northwest Territories?
The Residential Tenancies Act applies.
Do leases have to be in writing?
No, but written leases are strongly recommended for clarity and proof.
What must a written lease include?
It should state names, rent amount, address, start date, and any rules or terms.
Can a landlord change the terms mid-lease?
Not without the tenant’s written consent, unless required by law.
How much notice must my landlord give before ending my lease?
For most periodic leases, at least 3 months’ written notice is required.
Can my landlord make me sign a new lease each year?
Only if you both agree; otherwise, fixed term leases can become month-to-month when they expire.
What if I don’t have a written lease?
Verbal leases are legal and covered by the Residential Tenancies Act.
Can I break my lease early?
Only if the lease allows, the landlord agrees, or under special circumstances like family violence (with proper notice or order).
What notice do I give to end a month-to-month lease?
You must give at least one calendar month’s written notice before the end of a rental period.
How do I give notice to end my tenancy?
Use the Notice of Termination by Tenant (Form 1) and give it to your landlord.
What if my landlord sells the building?
The new owner must honor your existing lease or provide proper notice to end it.
Can my landlord evict me without a reason?
Landlords generally must have a legal reason to evict and must follow notice requirements under the law.
Are automatic lease renewals allowed?
At lease expiry, fixed term leases often convert to periodic leases unless both parties agree otherwise.
What is a security deposit?
It’s money (max one month’s rent) held by the landlord to cover damages or unpaid rent.
When does my landlord have to return my security deposit?
Within 10 days after the lease ends and keys are returned, if there are no deductions.
Can my rent be increased during my lease?
Rent cannot be increased within the first 12 months of a tenancy, and only once every 12 months after that, with at least 3 months’ written notice.
What form does my landlord use to increase rent?
Landlords can use a written notice or the Notice of Rent Increase (Form 7).
Can my landlord increase rent by any amount?
There’s no rent cap, but rent hikes must follow the law’s 3-month notice rule.
What happens if I don’t agree with a rent increase?
You may apply to the RTO to dispute the increase if it does not follow legal requirements.
Can my landlord enter my unit without notice?
No, except in emergencies. Otherwise, 24 hours’ written notice is required.
Can I sublet my unit?
Only if your lease allows and you get the landlord’s written consent.
What if I need to move because of family violence?
You may apply for an early lease termination order with evidence (see Form 15).
Where can I find official tenancy forms for NWT?
Do I have to pay for a lease renewal?
No, renewals should not require an extra fee.
What happens if my lease expires and I keep living there?
Your lease converts to a month-to-month tenancy under the same terms, unless a new agreement is made.
Can I add someone to my lease?
Only with your landlord’s written consent.
Does my landlord have to give me a copy of the signed lease?
Yes, within 21 days of signing.
What if my landlord refuses to give me a lease copy?
You can apply to the RTO to enforce your right to receive it.
Can I use email for lease communications?
Only if agreed by both parties in writing. Written communication must meet RTO standards.
What if my lease has illegal terms?
Illegal terms cannot be enforced, even if signed. The Act overrides them.
Can I change the locks?
Only with the landlord’s permission, unless the RTO orders it.
Is a pet deposit allowed in NWT?
Yes, but it cannot exceed one month’s rent, including the security deposit.
How do I dispute a lease or rent issue?
File a complaint or Application to the RTO. See Application by Tenant (Form 2).
Can my landlord refuse to renew my lease?
Yes, with proper notice at the end of a fixed term. Otherwise, you can remain month-to-month.
Do both parties have to sign the lease for it to be valid?
Not always, but signing by both is best for clear proof of agreement.
Are verbal agreements enforceable?
Yes, but written leases are much easier to enforce and prove.
Can a landlord require post-dated cheques?
No, tenants cannot be required to provide post-dated cheques.
Can I stay if my roommate moves out?
If you’re a named tenant, yes; otherwise, it depends on the lease and landlord approval.
How do I add conditions to the lease?
Conditions must be in writing and agreed by both landlord and tenant before signing.
Are fixed-term and periodic leases different?
Yes. Fixed-term ends on a set date; periodic renews automatically (e.g., month-to-month).
Does a landlord need to maintain the unit by law?
Yes, landlords must keep units in good repair and meet health standards.
Can the landlord charge late fees in the lease?
Only if the fee is reasonable and written into the lease.
Can a lease prevent me from having guests?
Leases can set reasonable rules, but must not prevent guests or family from visiting.
Can I use my rental for a home business?
Only if the lease and local bylaws allow it, and you have landlord consent.
What if the rental agreement is missing information?
Missing terms may be filled by law; contact the RTO for advice.
Should I keep a copy of everything I sign?
Yes, always keep copies of all rental forms and leases for your reference.
Can my landlord require renters’ insurance in the lease?
Yes, landlords may require tenants to obtain renters’ insurance as a lease condition.
Where can I get help if I have a lease dispute?
Contact the Residential Tenancy Office (RTO) for advice or to file a claim.
