What to do right away
Take immediate steps to protect people and property, then preserve evidence for insurance and any dispute process.
- Call 911 if anyone is injured and follow emergency responders' directions.
- Contact your landlord or property manager immediately and tell them about the damage.
- Take dated photos and video of damage from multiple angles and note the time.
- Save written messages, repair estimates, and receipts for future claims.
- Notify your tenant insurance provider as soon as possible to open a claim.
Who is liable?
Liability depends on why the tree fell. If the tree was diseased or the landlord failed to maintain common outdoor areas, the landlord may be responsible. If a tenant caused damage by altering landscaping or storing flammable materials near a tree, the tenant could be liable. Insurance policies and lease clauses also affect who pays. If you cannot agree about responsibility, you can seek help from the Residential Tenancies Office[1] or review the Residential Tenancies Act[2].
Insurance, claims and forms
Before repairs begin, check whether the damage is covered by your tenant insurance or the landlord's building insurance. Below are common forms and how tenants use them.
- Application to the Residential Tenancies Officer (Form 1) — used when a tenant or landlord applies for dispute resolution when parties cannot agree on repairs or liability (e.g., landlord denies responsibility for damage caused by a neglected tree).
- Repair or Maintenance Notice (Form 2) — used to formally request repairs from a landlord with documented examples, dates and repair estimates to support the request.
When to involve the Residential Tenancies Office or tribunal
If the landlord will not arrange reasonable repairs or there is a dispute about liability, you may apply for dispute resolution through the Residential Tenancies Office[1]. The Office can order repairs or compensation based on evidence such as photos, repair bills and communication records.
Also review the landlord and tenant obligations to understand who is responsible for outdoor maintenance and safety; see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for general guidance.
If you need temporary housing while repairs are done, look for nearby rentals; Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme can help you search options quickly.
FAQ
- Who pays for repairs if a tree falls on my rental?
- Responsibility depends on cause and maintenance. If the landlord neglected trees on the property, they are usually responsible; if tenant actions caused the risk, the tenant may be liable.
- Should I contact my insurance provider even if the landlord will pay?
- Yes. Contact your tenant insurance to report the loss and confirm coverage — they will advise whether deductibles apply or if relocation costs are covered.
- How do I apply for help from the Residential Tenancies Office?
- Gather photos, receipts, and communication records, then submit the Application to the Residential Tenancies Officer (Form 1) linked above to start dispute resolution.
How-To
- Call emergency services if anyone is injured and make the area safe.
- Notify your landlord and your tenant insurance provider immediately and record the time and method of contact.
- Photograph and video the damage with timestamps, and save any witness names or statements.
- Collect written repair estimates and receipts, then file an insurance claim and keep copies for any tribunal application.
- If the landlord won’t act, apply for dispute resolution through the Residential Tenancies Office using the Application to the Residential Tenancies Officer.
Key Takeaways
- Prioritize safety and document everything immediately.
- Insurance and clear records usually speed repairs and compensation.
- Use official forms and the Residential Tenancies Office when disputes cannot be resolved directly.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Office, Government of the Northwest Territories
- Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories)
