What Tenants Can Do If Accessibility Modifications Are Denied in NWT

Facing obstacles to accessibility in your rental home can be frustrating and impact your quality of life. If you’re a tenant in the Northwest Territories and your landlord has denied reasonable accessibility modifications, it’s essential to know your rights and next steps. The Northwest Territories’ law protects tenants from discrimination and supports accessible housing for persons with disabilities.

Your Right to Accessibility Modifications in Rentals

Under the Residential Tenancies Act (NWT) and the NWT Human Rights Act, tenants have the right to request reasonable modifications to make a rental unit accessible. This can include installing grab bars, accessible door handles, ramps, or modifications for visual or auditory disabilities. Landlords must not discriminate against you if you need these changes due to a disability.

What Is a "Reasonable" Accessibility Modification?

A reasonable modification is a change that is necessary for a tenant’s equal enjoyment of the property, but does not cause the landlord undue hardship (e.g., significant expense, structural risk).

• Grab bars in bathrooms
• Ramp installation
• Visual fire alarms
• Lowered counters or cabinets

Each request is considered on a case-by-case basis, and both tenant and landlord must discuss possible alternatives or solutions in good faith.

If Your Request Is Denied: Steps to Take

If your landlord refuses a reasonable accessibility request, you have several options:

• Document your request and the response (keep copies of any emails or letters)
• Seek mediation or direct communication to clarify your needs and possible solutions
• File a complaint with the NWT Human Rights Commission if you believe discrimination occurred
• Apply to the Northwest Territories Residential Tenancy Office for dispute resolution

Filing a Complaint: Human Rights and Tenancy Office

You have the right to a fair process if your accessibility rights are ignored. Here are two main complaint routes:

• Human Rights Complaint: If you believe you’re being discriminated against due to your disability, complete the NWT Human Rights Complaint Form. Describe your request, the landlord’s response, and how this impacts your daily life. The Commission will investigate and may mediate a solution.
• Residential Tenancy Dispute: For tenancy matters (e.g., retaliation, changes to your lease because of your request), apply to the Residential Tenancy Office. You may use their Tenant Application for Dispute Resolution (Form RT-DR). Attach all supporting documents and detail your situation.

Landlord and Tenant Obligations

Both landlords and tenants have responsibilities outlined in the law. For more, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained. Remember, landlords can’t evict or penalize you for exercising your accessibility rights.

Tenants should aim to keep all communications respectful and solutions-oriented, while landlords may be entitled to certain documentation or assurances that modifications will not damage the property long-term.

Finding Accessible Rentals

If your housing needs change or your landlord remains uncooperative, you might consider moving. Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for accessible, pet-friendly, or specialized rentals using powerful search tools.

You can also see a summary of local tenant protections and rules at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

FAQ: Accessibility Modifications in NWT Rentals

1. Can a landlord refuse all accessibility modifications?
   No. Landlords are required by law to allow reasonable modifications unless it would cause them undue hardship (such as excessive cost or technical limitations).
2. Who pays for accessibility changes in my rental?
   Tenants are usually responsible for the cost of modifications, but some landlords may agree to share costs or keep changes after you move out. Discuss this before proceeding.
3. What if my landlord evicts me after I request a modification?
   This could be considered retaliation and discrimination. You can file a complaint with the NWT Human Rights Commission or apply to the Residential Tenancy Office for dispute resolution.
4. Do I need to use special forms to request a modification?
   No special form is required to make a modification request. However, use email or a written letter to keep a record of your communication.
5. Where can I get help with my accessibility issue?
   You can contact the NWT Human Rights Commission, the Residential Tenancy Office, or local tenant advocacy groups for support and guidance.

Key Takeaways

• Tenants in the Northwest Territories have protected rights to request reasonable accessibility modifications to rental housing.
• Landlords cannot deny such requests without valid reasons. Both parties should aim to resolve conflicts respectfully and legally.
• Several complaint and support channels are available, including the NWT Human Rights Commission and Residential Tenancy Office.

Whether you stay or choose to move to a new accessible home, remember that your right to safe and inclusive housing is supported by law.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Northwest Territories Residential Tenancy Office: Apply for dispute resolution, find forms, and get information on rights and obligations.
• NWT Human Rights Commission: For discrimination complaints and guidance on human rights in housing.
• Legal Aid NWT: Free legal information—call 1-844-835-8050 or visit Legal Aid NWT.
• Accessibility advocacy: Reach out to local disability organizations or tenant unions for advice and peer support.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (NWT), available at NWT Government – Residential Tenancies Act (PDF)
2. NWT Human Rights Act, accessible at NWT Human Rights Commission
3. Residential Tenancy Office, application forms and info: NWT Residential Tenancy Office
4. Human Rights Complaint Form: NWT Human Rights Complaint Process

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