Can my landlord enter my rental unit without notice?
No. Except for emergencies, landlords must give 24 hours’ written notice.
Keep a written log of entry notices, dates, and conversations. If entry occurs without proper notice, document the incident and contact the Residential Tenancies Office to discuss filing Form 1.
What law protects tenants’ safety and security in the NWT?
The Residential Tenancies Act (NWT) sets out your rights and protections.
Can my landlord enter my rental unit without notice?
No. Except for emergencies, landlords must give 24 hours’ written notice.
What should I do if my rental is unsafe or needs urgent repair?
Contact your landlord in writing. If not fixed promptly, apply to the Residential Tenancies Office using an Application to a Rental Officer (Form 1).
How do I report serious safety hazards in my unit?
Notify your landlord. If unresolved, submit Form 1 – Application to a Rental Officer.
Can I withhold rent if my unit is unsafe?
No, you must continue paying rent, but you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for repairs or compensation.
Is my landlord responsible for smoke detectors?
Yes. Landlords must provide and maintain working smoke detectors as required by law.
What if my landlord won’t repair a broken door lock?
Ask for repairs in writing. If not addressed, file Form 1 with the Rental Officer.
Can a landlord change locks without telling me?
No. Landlords cannot change locks or restrict entry without your consent or an order from the Rental Officer.
Who is responsible for pest infestations, like bedbugs?
The landlord is responsible for treating infestations unless caused by the tenant’s actions.
Can I install extra security (like cameras or locks) in my unit?
Only with your landlord’s written permission. Altering the premises without consent is not allowed.
What should I do if my landlord enters without proper notice?
Document the incident and file a complaint using Form 1 with the Residential Tenancies Office.
Are landlords allowed to have surveillance cameras in common areas?
Cameras in common areas are allowed for safety but must respect tenants’ privacy and not be in private spaces.
Can I end my lease early if my unit is unsafe?
Only if a Rental Officer orders early termination due to unsafe conditions.
Who do I call in case of emergency hazards (like fire or gas leaks)?
Call 911 or your local emergency services immediately, then inform your landlord as soon as possible.
What maintenance must my landlord provide for safety?
Landlords must keep the property in a good state of repair, including locks, windows, and essential services.
How do I apply formally for repairs?
Complete and submit Form 1 – Application to a Rental Officer.
Is my landlord responsible for snow and ice removal?
Usually, the landlord is responsible unless your lease states otherwise.
Are working carbon monoxide detectors required?
Yes, landlords must supply and maintain required detectors according to NWT regulations.
What if windows or doors can’t be locked?
Landlords must fix unsafe locks. If not, report via Form 1.
Do landlords have to fix broken lights or electrical issues?
Yes, landlords must repair electrical systems and lighting in common and rented areas.
What if there’s mould or water damage?
Inform your landlord. If not resolved, file Form 1 with the Tenancies Office.
Who is responsible for heating repairs?
The landlord must repair and maintain heating and essential services unless the lease says otherwise.
Can my landlord evict me for requesting repairs?
No. It is illegal to evict or threaten eviction for asserting your safety rights.
Are tenants responsible for replacing batteries in smoke detectors?
You may be responsible for batteries, but landlords must provide and maintain functioning units.
Can my landlord keep a key to my unit?
Yes. Landlords may have keys but must provide entry notice unless it's an emergency.
What if I feel threatened by another tenant?
Report to your landlord and, if urgent or unsafe, contact the police. Document all incidents.
Can my landlord enter my home when I’m not there?
Only with proper written notice or in an emergency.
What if essential services (heat, water) are shut off?
Report immediately. Landlords must maintain these services or you may apply for remedies using Form 1.
Who provides building security in apartments?
The landlord is responsible for reasonable building security and access control.
How do I know if rental appliances are safe?
Landlords must ensure rental appliances meet safety standards and are in good working order.
Who handles common area lighting and maintenance?
The landlord is responsible for common areas’ maintenance and lighting.
Can repairs be delayed because of weather?
Reasonable delays may be allowed, but urgent safety repairs must not be neglected.
May I install window bars for extra protection?
Only with landlord’s written consent. Mods without approval can lead to lease issues.
Am I liable if my guest damages the building?
Yes. Tenants are responsible for the actions of their guests.
What are my privacy rights during landlord inspections?
Landlords must give proper notice and cannot enter at unreasonable times.
Can my landlord stop me from contacting the Rental Officer?
No. You have the right to contact the Rental Officer about safety or any issues.
What if there is illegal activity in my building?
Report to police and inform your landlord as soon as possible.
Can my landlord force me to move for repairs?
Only if repairs are ordered by the Rental Officer and you are given proper notice.
Does insurance cover safety hazards?
Landlord insurance covers the building; tenant insurance is recommended for personal belongings.
Can landlords refuse to repair because it’s expensive?
No. Landlords cannot ignore required safety repairs because of cost.
What if my landlord ignores my safety concerns?
Apply to the Residential Tenancies Office using Form 1 and document all your attempts.
Who pays for repairs needed due to normal wear and tear?
The landlord is responsible for normal maintenance and safety repairs.
What if repairs are not done after a Rental Officer order?
Report the landlord’s non-compliance to the Residential Tenancies Office for enforcement.
Are space heaters in rental units allowed?
Only if they meet safety regulations and are approved by the landlord.
Can a landlord retaliate for safety complaints?
Retaliation by eviction or harassment is illegal under the Residential Tenancies Act.
Are security deposits used for repairs?
Only for tenant-caused damage, not for regular safety repairs or wear and tear.
How quickly must urgent repairs be fixed?
Urgent safety repairs must be addressed as soon as reasonably possible.
