What Tenants Can Do About Poor Repairs in Northwest Territories

Living in the Northwest Territories means facing unique rental challenges, especially when it comes to maintenance and repairs. If work is done poorly or not completed as promised, tenants often wonder what actions they can take and what rights protect them under local law. Understanding your options can help you ensure your rental home remains safe and habitable.

Understanding Landlord and Tenant Repair Responsibilities

In the Northwest Territories, both tenants and landlords have specific responsibilities for repairs and maintenance. Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained details these roles in general, but local law specifically states that landlords must keep properties in a good state of repair, suitable for occupation, and comply with health and safety standards. These obligations are outlined in the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA), Northwest Territories^[1].

• Landlords must perform repairs in a timely and professional manner.
• Tenants should report required repairs as soon as they notice a problem.

If repairs are not completed properly or make your home unsafe, you have the right to address the issue through official steps.

What to Do When Repairs Are Done Poorly

Poor repairs include incomplete fixes, unsafe work, or quick patches that don’t resolve the main issue. Tenants should:

• Notify the landlord of the problem in writing, keeping copies of all communications
• Document the issue with photos or videos
• Request a specific timeline for proper repairs to be completed

Stay proactive and clear in your communication so your landlord knows the repair isn't resolved.

Filing a Complaint with the Northwest Territories Rental Officer

If the landlord does not address your concerns or repairs remain substandard, tenants can apply to the Rental Office – the official tribunal handling residential tenancy matters in the Northwest Territories.

Key Steps and Forms

• Application to Rental Officer (Form 1): Use this form to formally request a hearing if repairs remain inadequate. Download from the official government site.
  For example, if your landlord sends someone to repair a leaky pipe, but the leak worsens or returns, submit Form 1 detailing failed attempts and request an order for proper repairs.

You will need to provide details, copies of communication, and any evidence (such as photos) showing the repair’s poor quality. The Rental Officer will then set a hearing and can issue orders for the landlord to complete repairs correctly.

Legislation Protecting Tenants

Your rights depend on local laws. The Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) says tenants are entitled to safe, well-maintained rental housing. If these standards are not met, tenants can pursue remedies through the Rental Office.^[1]

When is it an Emergency?

Some issues may require immediate attention (e.g., loss of heat in winter), while others are routine. For urgent, hazardous, or unaddressed repairs: see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities for what to do if your safety is at risk. In true emergencies, tenants may be able to hire their own professionals and deduct reasonable costs from rent, but only after following legal steps and notifying their landlord.

Preventing Issues: Inspections and Documentation

It’s a good idea to document the condition of your unit at move-in and after any major repair. Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants explains how a proper inspection protects you if repairs are later disputed. Always take photos and keep written notes.

For more information about your rights in the territory, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What if my landlord refuses to fix or redo a poor repair?
   Document the issue and communications, then file an Application to the Rental Officer (Form 1) to request an order for proper repairs.
2. Can I stop paying rent if repairs are not done correctly?
   No, continue paying your rent. Withholding rent may put you at risk of eviction. Instead, follow the formal complaint process.
3. Who pays if I need to hire someone for emergency repairs?
   If you follow the correct legal process and notify your landlord, you may be able to deduct the cost from your rent. Always keep receipts and documentation.
4. Does the Northwest Territories Rental Office help with enforcing repair orders?
   Yes, the Rental Officer can issue binding orders for landlords to complete repairs to proper standards.
5. Should I keep records of all repair attempts and communication?
   Absolutely. Documentation supports your case if you must escalate or seek compensation.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Tenants in Northwest Territories have the right to safe, properly repaired homes under the Residential Tenancies Act
• Always document issues, notify your landlord in writing, and keep copies
• If repairs are done poorly, take formal steps by applying to the Rental Officer

Knowing your rights and using the correct process can help you resolve maintenance and repair problems efficiently.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Northwest Territories Rental Office: Official Information and Forms, including Application to the Rental Officer (Form 1)
• Government of Northwest Territories – Justice: Tenant rights and dispute resolution
• Legal Aid NWT: For low-income tenants needing advice or assistance, see Legal Aid Services
• Read more about Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Northwest Territories) – Government Source

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