Human rights investigations can be stressful for tenants in the Northwest Territories. If you suspect discrimination related to tenancy—because of disability, family status, race, gender, or other protected grounds—you can file a complaint with the territorial human rights body[1]. This article explains what happens after you file: common timelines, the kinds of evidence that help, official forms and when to use them, how investigators contact you and the landlord, and practical steps renters can take to protect their rights and housing. It is written for tenants and renters, avoids legal jargon, and aims to prepare you so you know what to expect during the investigation process.
How a human rights complaint is received and screened
After you submit a complaint, staff will check whether the issue falls under the Northwest Territories Human Rights legislation and whether it was filed within any applicable deadline. If your complaint is accepted, it will be assigned to an investigator. Acceptance does not decide the outcome; it simply means the commission will look into the allegations.
What investigators typically look for
- Evidence: photos, messages, emails, or records that show differential treatment or a pattern of behaviour.
- Forms and notices: any written notices, application forms, or lease clauses that relate to the issue.
- Witness contact details: names and contact information for neighbours or others who observed relevant events.
Common steps in the investigation process
Investigations vary but often follow these general steps: an initial intake and screening, information requests from both parties, interviews with the complainant and respondent, mediation attempts in some cases, and finally a report or decision. Timelines depend on caseload, the need for further evidence, and whether parties agree to mediation.
Preparing your evidence and response
Collect dated materials (emails, texts, photos), note dates and places, and list witnesses. If you pay rent by e-transfer or electronic payment, keep receipts. If you have a disability-related accommodation request that was denied, include medical notes or accommodation requests. If you are unsure what to include, ask the investigator for guidance.
Official forms and when to use them
Use the commissions official complaint form to start a human rights investigation; the form asks for your contact information, the respondents details, the protected grounds involved, the date(s) of the incidents, and a short description of what happened. The form also asks what remedy you are seeking (for example, an apology, a change in policy, or compensation). Submit the form according to the commissions instructions so the intake staff can begin screening.[2]
How investigators contact you and landlords
Investigators usually contact complainants and respondents by email or phone to request documents or schedule interviews. They may also ask the landlord for lease records or rental application forms. Be honest and clear in interviews; provide copies of documents rather than only summaries. If you need an accommodation for an interview (for example, a sign-language interpreter or extra time), tell the investigator as soon as possible.
Timelines and possible outcomes
Timelines vary. Some files are resolved within weeks if parties agree to mediation or provide clear evidence quickly. More complex cases with multiple witnesses or legal issues may take months. Possible outcomes include dismissal at screening, resolution through mediation, a formal finding of discrimination with recommended remedies, or referral to a tribunal or court if further action is needed.
Practical steps tenants can take now
- Document: create a dated log of incidents with short notes about what happened and who was present.
- Save written communications: keep emails, texts, lease pages, and application forms.
- Ask for help: contact local tenant advice services or legal clinics for support with forms or interviews.
When a tenancy dispute overlaps with human rights
If the issue involves rent, repairs, eviction, or habitability that also engages a protected ground, you may have parallel processes: a human rights investigation and a tenancy application or complaint through the residential tenancy authority. You can raise human rights concerns to the human rights body while also using the tenancy process to address urgent housing problems. For practical guidance related to tenancy complaints, see How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant's Guide and Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.
FAQ
- Can I file a human rights complaint and a tenancy application at the same time?
- Yes. You can pursue a human rights complaint and a tenancy application simultaneously; they address different legal questions and can run in parallel.
- How long will the investigation take?
- There is no fixed timeline: simple matters can resolve in weeks, complex investigations can take several months depending on scheduling and evidence gathering.
- Do I need a lawyer to file a complaint?
- No. Many tenants file without a lawyer. You can also seek help from legal clinics, tenant associations, or a lawyer if the case is complex.
How-To
- Form: find and complete the official human rights complaint form with dates, respondent details, and a short incident summary.[2]
- Collect evidence: gather emails, photos, receipts, and witness names that support your account.
- Submit: send the form and attachments by the method the commission specifies (online, email, or mail).
- Respond to requests: answer investigator questions and provide documents promptly when asked.
- Attend interviews or mediation: participate in scheduled calls or meetings and ask for accommodations if needed.
- Follow up: keep copies of submissions, ask the investigator for expected timelines, and request updates if you do not hear back.
Key Takeaways
- File using the official complaint form and attach dated evidence whenever possible.
- Expect variable timelines: some matters resolve quickly, others take months.
- Seek free tenant advice or legal help early if you feel unsure about next steps.
Help and Support / Resources
- Northwest Territories Human Rights Commission
- Government of the Northwest Territories Justice Department
- Residential Tenancies information - Government of the Northwest Territories
