Top 50 Questions: Tenant Insurance & Liability in Northwest Territories

Tenant Insurance & Liability Northwest Territories published June 26, 2025 Flag of Northwest Territories
Is tenant insurance required by law in the Northwest Territories?
No, tenant insurance is not required by law, but landlords may require it in your lease agreement.
Can my landlord force me to buy tenant insurance?
Landlords can make tenant insurance a condition of your lease, so you must comply if your agreement requires it.
What does tenant insurance cover?
It covers your belongings, personal liability, and extra living expenses if you can't stay in your home after a covered loss.
Does tenant insurance cover my roommate's belongings?
No, each person usually needs their own policy unless both names are listed on one policy.
Will tenant insurance cover damage I cause accidentally?
Yes, tenant insurance usually includes liability coverage for accidental property damage or injury you cause.
Who handles landlord and tenant disputes in the Northwest Territories?
The Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) resolves disputes.
What law governs tenancies in the Northwest Territories?
The Residential Tenancies Act (NWT) applies.
What is personal liability coverage?
It's coverage in your tenant insurance that pays if you're legally responsible for injuring someone or damaging property.
If my apartment building has a fire, will tenant insurance cover my belongings?
Yes, if the fire is a covered peril in your policy, tenant insurance can pay to replace or repair personal belongings.
Are floods covered by regular tenant insurance?
Most standard policies do not cover floods; you may need to buy special coverage for flood protection.
Does my landlord's insurance cover my belongings?
No, your landlord's insurance only covers their building, not your personal property.
How much tenant insurance should I get?
Choose coverage that matches the value of your belongings and your potential liability risks.
What extra living expenses are covered by tenant insurance?
Costs such as hotel bills and meals if you can't live in your rental due to an insured event are usually covered.
Can my landlord evict me for not having tenant insurance?
Yes, if your lease requires tenant insurance and you refuse to get it, your landlord may apply to the RTO for termination.
Does tenant insurance cover theft?
Yes, theft of your personal property from your rental is usually covered by tenant insurance.
Can I choose any insurance company?
Yes, you can purchase tenant insurance from any licensed insurer in the Northwest Territories.
Am I liable if my guest causes damage?
Yes, you may be held responsible for damage your guests cause to the rental property.
What types of damage are usually not covered by tenant insurance?
Damage from earthquakes, floods, or intentional acts are typically excluded.
Can I be sued if someone is injured in my rental unit?
Yes, and tenant insurance liability coverage can help pay for legal costs and damages up to your policy limit.
How do I prove I have tenant insurance?
Your insurance company can provide a certificate or proof of coverage to show your landlord.
Can my landlord require a specific amount of liability coverage?
Yes, landlords can set a minimum coverage amount in the lease, usually $1 million or more.
Will my premium go up if I file a claim?
Possibly; making a claim could increase your insurance premiums.
What should I do if my landlord asks for proof of insurance?
Provide them with your certificate of insurance or a copy of your policy.
Do I need new insurance if I move to another rental?
Yes, notify your insurance company about your move to update or transfer your policy to your new address.
Can the landlord's insurance company sue me for property damage?
Yes, if you cause damage, the landlord’s insurer can seek repayment from you. Tenant insurance covers this risk.
Does my policy cover my bike stored in a common area?
Some policies cover theft from shared spaces, but check with your insurer for limits and requirements.
Can I add roommates to my policy?
Some insurers allow it, but roommates should usually get their own tenant insurance policies.
What happens if I let my policy lapse?
You won’t have coverage, and if required by your lease, your landlord may take action through the RTO.
If my friend comes over and gets hurt, am I responsible?
You could be liable. Tenant insurance personal liability protection can help cover such situations.
Can my landlord set which insurance company I use?
No, you can choose any company, but must meet any lease-specified minimum requirements.
Are pets covered by tenant insurance?
Your policy may cover liability if your pet injures someone, but not damage they cause to property. Check your policy for details.
What official form do I use to respond to a landlord's application for eviction due to lack of insurance?
Use the RT 02 – Response to Application to respond at the RTO.
How do I file a dispute with the Residential Tenancies Office?
Complete and submit an RT 01 – Application Form to the RTO.
Do I need tenant insurance for short-term rentals?
Some landlords may require it even for short-term leases. Check your rental agreement.
Will my tenant insurance still cover me if I sublet?
Policies may not cover sublets. Inform your insurer and check for required changes.
Is mold covered by tenant insurance?
Most policies exclude mold, but check your specific coverage for details.
Can I buy tenant insurance after I've already moved in?
Yes, you can purchase coverage any time, but you won’t be covered for losses before your policy starts.
What’s the typical deductible for tenant insurance?
Deductibles vary, but common amounts are $500 or $1,000 per claim.
Are students required to have tenant insurance in residence?
It depends on the institution; some student residences require it, but check with your housing office.
Does tenant insurance cover lost items?
Insurance generally does not cover misplaced or lost items, only theft or loss due to insured perils.
Can my landlord charge me a fee for not having insurance?
No, landlords can't add extra fees beyond what's outlined in your lease, but may take action if you breach the lease.
Can I file a complaint about unreasonable insurance requirements?
Yes, you can file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Office if you believe your landlord is being unreasonable.
Does insurance cover me if I travel with my belongings?
Some policies extend limited coverage to belongings while temporarily away; check details with your insurer.
What information do I need to apply for tenant insurance?
You’ll need your address, value of belongings, any pets, and your rental type.
Will tenant insurance protect my property in a shared house?
Yes, but each tenant should have their own policy; shared spaces may have limits.
How do I contact the Residential Tenancies Office?
Visit the RTO website or call 867-767-9256.
Is jewelry covered by tenant insurance?
Most policies have limits on jewelry; extra coverage may be needed for high-value items.
How do I cancel my tenant insurance?
Contact your insurer to cancel your policy, and notify your landlord if required by your lease.

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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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