Top 50 Questions: Discrimination & Accessibility for Tenants in Northwest Territories

Discrimination & Accessibility Northwest Territories published: June 26, 2025 Flag of Northwest Territories
Who handles tenancy discrimination and accessibility issues in Northwest Territories?
The Residential Tenancy Office (RTO) oversees residential tenancy matters.
Which law protects tenants from discrimination in the Northwest Territories?
The Northwest Territories Human Rights Act and Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) protect tenants.
Is it legal for a landlord to refuse to rent to someone with a disability?
No, refusing to rent because of a disability is prohibited by the Human Rights Act.
What groups are protected from discrimination?
Protection covers race, age, gender, religion, disability, family status, and more under the Human Rights Act.
Can a landlord ask about my disability before renting to me?
No, landlords cannot ask about disabilities unless it directly affects your tenancy needs.
What should I do if I believe I've been discriminated against by my landlord?
You can file a complaint with the NWT Human Rights Commission.
How do I file a Human Rights complaint in Northwest Territories?
Use the Human Rights Complaint Form with guidance from the Commission.
Can a landlord refuse an assistance animal?
No, landlords must allow assistance animals for tenants with disabilities unless it causes undue hardship.
Do landlords have to make my unit accessible if I have a disability?
Landlords must provide reasonable accommodations unless they face significant difficulties (undue hardship).
What is a reasonable accommodation in housing?
It means adjustments to rules, policies, or facilities so a person with a disability can use the home.
Can a landlord raise my rent because I requested an accommodation?
No, it is illegal to retaliate against tenants for requesting accommodations.
What should I do if a landlord denies my request for an accessibility feature?
Document your request and contact the Human Rights Commission for help.
Can a landlord refuse to rent to someone because they have children?
No, discrimination based on family status is prohibited.
May a landlord charge a pet deposit for an assistance animal?
No, extra deposits for service or assistance animals are not allowed.
Can a landlord ask for medical documentation to support an accessibility request?
Yes, but only enough to verify the need for accommodation, not to disclose diagnosis.
What is "undue hardship" for a landlord?
It's when accommodations would cost too much or seriously affect operations.
How do I ask my landlord for a reasonable accommodation?
Make a written request outlining your needs and suggested changes.
Is there an official form for tenants to report discrimination under tenancy law?
Use the Human Rights Complaint Form for discrimination issues.
How long do I have to make a human rights complaint?
You must file within 2 years of the incident under the Human Rights Act.
Can a landlord evict me for having a disability or requesting an accommodation?
No, this is considered discrimination and is illegal.
Where can I get help or advice about discrimination as a tenant?
Contact the NWT Human Rights Commission or the RTO for guidance.
Are rental advertisements allowed to say "no children" or "adults only"?
No, this is discriminatory under the Human Rights Act.
Can a landlord refuse to install ramps or widen doorways?
They must consider requests, unless it results in undue hardship.
Must my landlord allow home modifications for accessibility?
Reasonable, non-permanent modifications may be required, discussed case by case.
Who is responsible for paying for accessibility modifications?
Costs may be shared or discussed; landlords can’t refuse reasonable changes without undue hardship.
What if my landlord refuses an application because I am Indigenous?
This is prohibited discrimination, and you can file a Human Rights complaint.
Can tenants get evicted for discriminatory reasons?
No, eviction cannot legally be based on discrimination.
Can landlords limit the number of people based on ethnicity or family size?
No, limits based on these grounds violate the Human Rights Act.
Does my landlord have to communicate with me in an accessible way?
Yes, if you request accessible formats or communication methods for disabilities.
What about discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity?
Both are protected grounds under the NWT Human Rights Act.
Can a landlord ask only certain tenants to provide references or deposits?
All tenants should be treated equally; selective requirements could be discriminatory.
Does the law cover discrimination after I move in?
Yes, anti-discrimination protections apply throughout your tenancy.
If a landlord wants to renovate, can they deny me based on my age or disability?
No, renovations do not override human rights protections for tenants.
How can I prove discrimination took place?
Keep written records, emails, and notes about what was said or done.
Can a landlord evict me for filing a discrimination complaint?
No, retaliation against tenants for asserting their rights is prohibited.
Do I need legal assistance to file a human rights complaint?
Legal help is not required, but you may contact the NWT Human Rights Commission for support.
What happens after I file a complaint with the Human Rights Commission?
They'll review your case, may contact you for more info, and investigate if accepted.
Can a landlord post "no immigrants" or "adults only" in ads?
No, these are violations of human rights protections.
How accessible are government housing buildings in the NWT?
Most public housing follows accessibility guidelines, but contact local housing authority to confirm.
Is substance addiction considered a disability under NWT law?
Yes, the Human Rights Act recognizes addiction as a disability requiring accommodation.
Can a landlord make rules that impact people with certain religions or beliefs?
No, rules targeting specific religious practices are discriminatory.
Is it discrimination if my landlord enters my unit only when I'm home due to my disability?
No, if it's done for your safety or at your request; otherwise, selective entry can be discriminatory.
Can a landlord set curfews or rules only for youth or certain groups?
No, this could be discrimination based on age or other protected grounds.
How long does it take to resolve a discrimination complaint?
It varies, but the Human Rights Commission aims for timely investigation and resolution.
Can I request support or translation to understand forms or proceedings?
Yes, you have the right to accessible communication and accommodations.
Is it discrimination if repairs are done faster for other tenants?
Only if decisions are based on a protected ground like ethnicity, disability, or age.
I need to break my lease for health reasons. Does my landlord have to let me?
You may have options under the Human Rights Act; discuss your situation and provide documentation.
Are all rental units required by law to be accessible?
Not all, but landlords must accommodate accessibility needs case by case.
What resources are available for tenants with accessibility needs?
Visit the NWT Human Rights Commission and the RTO websites for support.
Where can I find official forms for tenancy issues about discrimination?
The NWT Human Rights Complaint Form is used to report discrimination.

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

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