Top 50 Tenant Eviction Questions in Northwest Territories

Evictions Northwest Territories published June 26, 2025 Flag of Northwest Territories
Who handles tenant evictions in Northwest Territories?
The Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) manages evictions. Learn more.
What law covers evictions in Northwest Territories?
The Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) governs all evictions.
Can my landlord evict me without a reason?
No, a landlord must have a legal reason and give proper notice as required by the RTA.
What notice must my landlord give before eviction?
Usually, landlords must give written notice. Notice period depends on the reason—often 10 days for non-payment and 30+ days for other reasons.
How do I know if an eviction notice is valid?
The notice must be in writing, state the reason, and have the correct notice period as stated in the RTA.
What is a 10 Day Notice to Terminate?
It's the official form landlords use to evict for unpaid rent, giving you 10 days to leave. See here.
Can I fight an eviction notice?
Yes, you can apply to the RTO for a hearing to dispute the notice. Use the Application for Order (RT 19).
How do I respond to a 10 Day Notice?
You can pay your overdue rent within 10 days, or file an Application for Order with the RTO to appeal.
Do I have to move out immediately after notice?
No. You have the full notice period and may contest the eviction through the RTO.
How much notice does my landlord have to give for no-fault evictions?
At least 30 days for reasons like major repairs or landlord moving in.
What if I don't leave after the notice expires?
The landlord must apply to the RTO for an Order of Possession to have you legally removed.
Can my landlord change the locks to evict me?
No. Only a sheriff or peace officer can remove tenants after an Order of Possession.
Can I be evicted for complaining about repairs?
No. Retaliatory eviction is not allowed under the Residential Tenancies Act.
What forms do landlords use to evict a tenant?
RT 29 (10 Day Notice) and written notice forms for other reasons. Official forms: Residential Tenancies Forms.
Can I be evicted for having pets?
Only if your lease forbids pets and you have violated the agreement.
Does my landlord need a reason to end a month-to-month tenancy?
Yes, a valid reason as permitted by the RTA is required—such as owner move-in or renovations.
What if my landlord says the unit is being sold?
Landlords must provide written notice (minimum 30 days) and follow sale-related eviction rules.
Can a landlord evict me for non-payment of utilities?
Yes, if you are responsible for utilities and fail to pay, eviction may proceed with proper notice.
How do I request a hearing about my eviction?
Submit an Application for Order (RT 19) to the RTO. RT 19 form.
What happens at an eviction hearing?
Both you and your landlord explain your sides. The Hearing Officer makes a decision based on evidence.
Can I get legal help at an eviction hearing?
Yes, you can bring legal counsel or a representative if you wish.
Will I have to pay costs if I lose an eviction hearing?
Possibly; you may need to pay some costs if ordered by the RTO, such as for damages or unpaid rent.
Can I appeal an eviction decision?
Yes. You may apply for a review or appeal to the Supreme Court of the Northwest Territories within 14 days.
If I pay my arrears after getting a 10 Day Notice, do I still have to leave?
If you fully pay before the 10 days expire, the notice is cancelled and you can stay.
What if my landlord tries to evict me verbally?
Verbal notices don’t count. All eviction notices must be in writing.
Can I be evicted for damage caused by guests?
Yes; tenants are responsible for their guests’ conduct and damages.
Is a landlord allowed to evict me in winter?
Yes, there are no bans on winter evictions in the Northwest Territories, but legal notice is still required.
What if I need more time to move out?
You can ask the RTO for more time, but it is not guaranteed.
If I’m evicted, what happens to my security deposit?
The landlord can only keep part of your deposit for unpaid rent or damages, with a detailed statement.
Can my landlord evict me for overcrowding?
Yes, having more people than allowed in your agreement or violating health bylaws may lead to eviction.
Can I be evicted for illegal activity?
Yes. Landlords may evict if illegal activities are occurring in the unit.
What if I didn’t receive the eviction notice?
The notice is valid if delivered according to the RTA, normally in person or posted. Disputes can be raised at an RTO hearing.
What is an Order of Possession?
It’s a legal document from the RTO requiring you to leave by a set date. The landlord must use this if you stay after notice.
How quickly can I be evicted for serious damage or danger?
An emergency hearing can be held, and you may be ordered out with very short notice if danger is proven.
What if my landlord says I “abandoned” the unit?
The RTO can confirm abandonment. If not abandoned, you maintain your tenancy rights.
Can my landlord evict me if my lease is ending?
Yes, but only if the landlord gives proper notice in writing and complies with the RTA.
How can I prove I did not break the lease?
Gather documentation, receipts, and correspondences for your RTO hearing.
Can a landlord evict all tenants at once?
Yes, but each tenant must receive a proper, individual written notice.
How do I collect my mail after eviction?
Contact your former landlord. They are required to allow you to collect possessions for a reasonable time.
What are my rights if I’m evicted for landlord use?
You must get at least 30 days’ written notice and the landlord or their family must actually move in.
Will an eviction affect my credit or rental history?
If unpaid debts are sent to collections, they may affect your credit. Court/tribunal orders are public records.
Can I negotiate with my landlord to stop eviction?
Yes, landlords may accept payment or work out new terms before formal eviction orders.
Can a landlord raise my rent if I’m facing eviction?
No. Rent increases require a separate process and legal notice; they cannot be used as a penalty.
Can service animals be a reason for eviction?
No. You cannot be evicted for having a certified service animal.
Can I be evicted if I sublet my unit?
Only if the lease prohibits subletting or you have not received landlord permission as required.
What steps should I take if I get an eviction notice?
Check the reason, dates, and your options; seek advice or file an application with the RTO to dispute if needed.
Where can I find official eviction forms for tenants?
Download forms from the Government of Northwest Territories’ Residential Tenancies Office.
Is mediation available instead of eviction hearings?
Yes. The RTO can help mediate disputes before a decision is made.
Can a landlord evict me for late rent even if I paid eventually?
If rent is paid before the 10 Day Notice expires, eviction stops. If late repeatedly, a landlord may seek eviction for chronic late payment.

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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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