Top 50 Questions: Post-Eviction Resources for Tenants in Northwest Territories

Post-Eviction Resources Northwest Territories published June 26, 2025 Flag of Northwest Territories
Where can I get help after being evicted in the Northwest Territories?
Contact the Residential Tenancy Office (RTO) for guidance and support.
What should I do immediately after an eviction?
Collect your belongings, find temporary housing, and seek local support services as soon as possible.
Can I appeal an eviction order in the Northwest Territories?
Yes, you can appeal to the Supreme Court of the Northwest Territories within 14 days of the order.
How do I appeal an eviction order?
File a Notice of Appeal with the Supreme Court and serve your landlord within 14 days of the decision.
Is there a form for appealing an eviction?
Yes, use the Notice of Appeal form from the Northwest Territories Courts website.
What support is available for emergency housing?
Contact local shelters or the NWT Housing Corporation for emergency housing assistance.
Can I recover my belongings after being evicted?
Yes. You may have a limited time (at least 72 hours) to collect your items after eviction. Coordinate with your landlord.
If I'm locked out, can I legally retrieve my possessions?
Yes, the law requires landlords to allow reasonable access for up to 72 hours after eviction to collect belongings.
What happens to my security deposit after eviction?
Your landlord must return the deposit within 10 days, minus allowable deductions, with a statement of account.
How do I dispute deductions from my damage deposit?
You can apply to the RTO to resolve the dispute.
Who handles tenant-landlord disputes in the Northwest Territories?
The Residential Tenancy Office (RTO) oversees all tenancy disputes.
What legislation protects tenants in the Northwest Territories?
The Residential Tenancies Act (NWT) governs tenants’ rights and responsibilities.
Where can I find the Residential Tenancy Act?
Access it on the NWT Department of Justice website.
Can I get legal aid after being evicted?
Yes. Contact Legal Aid Northwest Territories for assistance.
What if my landlord keeps my property after eviction?
Apply to the RTO to order your landlord to return your belongings or pay compensation.
How can I request a written record of the eviction?
Request a copy of the eviction order from the Residential Tenancy Office.
What if I believe my eviction was not legal?
Appeal the eviction or apply to the RTO to review the process for fairness and legality.
How do I file a complaint against my landlord after eviction?
Submit a complaint through the RTO’s formal dispute process by completing the Application for Dispute Resolution.
What services offer post-eviction counselling or support?
Reach out to community organizations, social services, or local housing counsellors.
How do I prevent bad references from my previous landlord?
Request a written reference or explanation of the situation and address issues in future rental applications.
How soon do I need to move out after an eviction order?
The order will specify the move-out date; follow it to avoid a forced eviction by a Bailiff.
Can I stay if I have nowhere to go?
No, remaining past the deadline can lead to physical removal by court order.
Who can help me move my things after eviction?
Ask friends, family, or community organizations for assistance with moving.
Is financial support available for moving costs?
Contact local social services, income assistance, or charities for possible moving support.
What happens to my mail after eviction?
Update your address with Canada Post and notify contacts to ensure continued mail delivery.
Can my rent be refunded after eviction?
If you paid for days you did not stay, you may request a pro-rated refund from your landlord.
How do I request damage deposit return?
Write a request to your landlord and be prepared to show receipts or evidence about the property's condition.
Are there organizations that help tenants facing homelessness?
Local shelters and service agencies may offer emergency support—contact NWT Housing Corporation for referrals.
Can a landlord immediately dispose of my belongings after eviction?
No. Landlords must store your possessions for a minimum of 72 hours and let you retrieve them.
Can I get copies of my tenancy records after eviction?
Yes, request copies from your landlord or the RTO, including your rental agreement and payments.
What is the role of the Residential Tenancy Office (RTO)?
The RTO handles all tenancy disputes, applications, and information in the Northwest Territories.
Is there a time limit to appeal an eviction order?
Yes, you have 14 days from the date of the eviction order to appeal.
Can I request mediation with my landlord after eviction?
Yes. The RTO may offer mediation services for post-tenancy disputes.
What documents do I need if I want to challenge the eviction?
Gather your eviction notice, tenancy agreement, payment records, and any communication with your landlord.
Where can I find copies of RTO forms?
Download forms from the Residential Tenancy Office forms page.
What is an Application for Dispute Resolution?
It’s a form to request the RTO to resolve a dispute with your landlord. Example: disputing non-return of a deposit.
How do I fill out an Application for Dispute Resolution?
Complete tenant information, describe the dispute clearly, attach supporting documents, and submit it to the RTO.
Can I be evicted during winter?
Yes, but the legal process and proper notice must still be followed; emergency support is available in winter.
How do I get a copy of my eviction notice?
Ask your landlord or the RTO for an official copy of your eviction notice.
Are children’s welfare or child services involved after eviction?
Child and Family Services may help families facing housing loss to ensure children’s safety.
Who can help interpret my legal rights after an eviction?
Legal Aid NWT or the RTO can explain your rights and obligations.
What happens if I leave belongings behind?
Landlords must hold items for at least 72 hours; after this, they may dispose of or store the goods at your cost.
Can I apply for another rental after eviction?
Yes, but an eviction may affect landlord screenings—provide references and explain your situation if needed.
What is the Collection of Evidence form for?
Used to submit documents or photos related to disputes; for example, evidence of apartment condition.
Are there different rules for eviction from public housing?
Eviction follows the Residential Tenancies Act, but contact NWT Housing Corporation for additional guidance.
If I have a disability, are there extra supports after eviction?
You may qualify for additional housing or income supports—contact local disability services for help.
Where do I send forms for the Residential Tenancy Office?
Submit in person, by mail, or email to the contacts listed on the RTO website.
Does RTO charge a fee for dispute applications?
No fee is charged for filing most applications to the RTO.
Do I need a lawyer to appeal an eviction?
No, but legal advice is recommended. Legal Aid may be able to help if eligible.
What is a written submission?
A document you prepare to support your appeal or complaint to the RTO or court.
How do I contact the Residential Tenancy Office?
Call (867) 767-9257 ext. 15262 or visit their website.

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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 tenants everywhere.

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