Top 50 Questions: Special Tenancy Situations in Northwest Territories

Special Tenancy Situations Northwest Territories published June 26, 2025 Flag of Northwest Territories
Who handles tenancy disputes in Northwest Territories?
The Rental Officer at the Rental Office handles tenancy disputes.
Which law covers tenancies in Northwest Territories?
The Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) governs residential rentals.
What is a special tenancy situation?
It’s a unique issue like subletting, assignment, death, sale, or changing tenants not covered by standard rules.
Can I sublet my rental unit?
You need written permission from your landlord before subletting your unit.
How do I assign my lease to someone else?
Get your landlord’s written approval and follow assignment rules in your tenancy agreement.
What happens if the landlord sells the property?
Your tenancy usually continues with the new owner under the same terms.
Do new landlords have to respect my lease?
Yes, the new owner becomes your landlord and must honor your current lease agreement.
Can my landlord evict me if they want to move in?
Yes, but only with proper notice and approved reasons under the RTA.
What if a tenant passes away?
The lease doesn’t automatically end; an authorized person should contact the landlord and possibly apply for termination.
Can I end my lease early for health or safety reasons?
You may apply to the Rental Officer for early termination in serious situations.
Can I get out of my lease if I’m a victim of domestic violence?
Yes, you can apply for early lease termination due to family violence with proper documentation. Use the Application for Early Termination.
What is an “Application to Terminate Tenancy” (NWT form)?
It’s used to ask the Rental Officer to end your tenancy. Download from government Forms page and submit as directed.
Do I have to keep paying rent if my landlord is selling?
Yes, rent must be paid until your tenancy lawfully ends, regardless of a sale.
How can I request permission for a roommate?
Ask your landlord in writing and get their approval before adding a roommate.
Can my lease be changed because my household changes?
Changes require landlord and tenant agreement or approval by the Rental Officer.
What if my landlord wants to renovate?
The landlord must give proper notice and may have to apply to the Rental Officer to end tenancy for major renovations.
Do I have to move out right away if my landlord gives notice?
No, only after the required notice period. You may dispute it with the Rental Office if you disagree.
How do I dispute a notice to end tenancy?
File an Application to the Rental Officer as soon as possible.
Can my landlord limit who stays with me long-term?
Yes, the lease or RTA may restrict additional occupants or require approval.
What happens if all tenants move out except one?
The remaining tenant needs landlord approval to continue or transfer the lease.
What if I want to move before my fixed-term lease ends?
You must get landlord consent or may owe rent for the remainder unless an agreement is reached.
Can I change locks for safety?
Only with landlord approval or by Rental Officer order, except in urgent safety cases.
Who pays utilities if a tenant dies or leaves abruptly?
Utility responsibility usually remains per lease until tenancy formally ends.
Does a divorce automatically change our lease?
No, all named tenants remain responsible until the lease is officially changed or ended.
Can my family take over my lease if I die?
Only if the landlord agrees or the Rental Officer approves a transfer application.
What official forms should I use for special tenancy issues?
Use forms from NWT Justice - Rental Office Forms.
Can a landlord ban pets mid-lease because of allergies?
No, unless the lease has a pet clause or both parties agree to change it.
How soon will the Rental Officer decide my special situation?
Timing depends on hearing schedules but urgent matters are prioritized.
If I sublet, who is responsible if things go wrong?
As the original tenant, you remain responsible unless a full assignment is completed.
What notice period is required for lease assignment?
Give reasonable written notice and obtain landlord approval before assigning.
Can tenants change who pays rent during a lease?
All named tenants remain jointly responsible; changes require landlord approval.
What if the landlord’s bank forecloses?
Tenants usually have the right to stay until proper notice is given, as per the Act.
Do I need a reason to end a periodic tenancy?
No, but you must give the correct written notice as required by the Act.
My landlord died. What should I do?
Continue paying rent. The estate or new owner becomes your landlord. Contact the Rental Office if unsure.
Can I be evicted for subletting without permission?
Yes, unauthorized subletting is grounds for eviction per the RTA.
How do I notify my landlord of early termination?
Give written notice and, if applicable, submit the Application for Early Termination to the Rental Officer.
Does the lease end if the building is destroyed?
Yes, leases generally end automatically if the rental is uninhabitable.
Can a landlord enter to show the unit during sale?
Yes, with proper notice at least 24 hours in advance as required by the Act.
Who contacts utilities if a tenant or landlord changes?
The incoming or outgoing tenant and landlord should each notify utility providers promptly.
What are my rights if I separate from a partner on the lease?
Both remain responsible unless the lease is formally changed or terminated.
How do I transfer my lease to a new tenant?
Obtain landlord approval in writing and complete the assignment as per the lease and the Act.
Which form do I use to dispute a Rental Officer’s order?
Use the Request for Review Form to appeal a decision.
Can I take over a lease from a family member?
Only with landlord consent and proper assignment or Rental Officer approval.
Can the landlord ask me to leave to do major repairs?
Yes, with approved notice and possible Rental Officer review.
Do I need to pay rent if I must move out for repairs?
Rent may be reduced or abated if you cannot live in the unit during repairs.
How do I get my deposit back in special tenancy cases?
Apply for return of security deposit with the Application for Return of Security Deposit.
Can my landlord charge extra for allowing a subtenant?
Only if agreed to in writing or permitted by the Act.
Can a landlord terminate for business reasons unrelated to tenants?
Only for reasons allowed by the Act, such as renovations or owner’s use.
What if I lose my job and can’t pay rent?
Speak with your landlord and seek help but you are still legally obligated for rent unless the Rental Officer grants relief.
Where can I get help for unique tenant situations?
Contact the NWT Rental Office for guidance and forms.

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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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