When Is a Rent Increase Legal in Northwest Territories?

If you’re renting a home or apartment in the Northwest Territories, understanding when your landlord can legally increase your rent is essential. Rent increases are regulated to protect tenants, but there are important rules to follow—both for proper notice and lawful timing. This guide breaks down your rights and steps you can take if you receive a rent increase notice in the Northwest Territories.

Who Regulates Rent Increases in the Northwest Territories?

In the Northwest Territories, the Residential Tenancy Office (RTO), under the NWT Court of Justice, oversees rental housing issues.

Relevant Legislation for Rent Increases

All rent increase rules stem from the Residential Tenancies Act of the Northwest Territories^[1]. The Act explains when and how landlords may raise rent, as well as the specific notice required. If your rental is covered, you have strong protections under this law.

When Can a Landlord Increase Your Rent?

Rent increases are only legal in the following situations in the NWT:

• The tenancy is a periodic tenancy (month-to-month, week-to-week, or year-to-year), or your fixed-term tenancy has ended and switched to month-to-month.
• Your landlord provides written notice at least three months before the increase takes effect (s. 50 of the Act).
• No rent increase can occur within the first 12 months after your tenancy begins or the first 12 months after the last increase.

If your landlord fails to follow these rules, the rent increase is not legally enforceable.

How Much Can the Rent Be Raised?

The Northwest Territories does not have rent control—there’s no legislated maximum percentage or dollar limit for a rent increase. However, proper notice and waiting periods still apply.

Notice Requirements and Form

Landlord Written Notice of Rent Increase is required for all legal rent increases in the NWT. While there is no government-issued standard form for rent increases, the notice must include:

• Statement that the rent will increase
• Amount of the new rent and the increase
• Date the increase takes effect (minimum three months from notice date)
• Landlord’s signature

Example: If your landlord gives you notice on January 15, the earliest legal date for a rent increase would be April 15.

Disputing an Illegal Rent Increase

If you think the notice did not follow the rules—or your landlord tries to raise the rent too soon—you can:

• Discuss the situation directly with your landlord to resolve the issue
• Apply to the Residential Tenancy Office (RTO) for a dispute resolution hearing

File complaints or applications using the Application to a Rental Officer form. This form allows you to challenge an unlawful rent increase in front of the Rental Officer. Clearly state your reason (e.g., improper notice, increase too soon).

How to File a Dispute

To contest an illegal rent increase, collect your copy of the notice, lease agreement, and any communications. Fill out the Application to a Rental Officer and submit it to the RTO (in person, by mail, or electronically).

Other Important Tenant Rights and Tips

Be sure to review your lease or rental agreement for any specific terms about rent changes. For more on general tenant rights and laws in this territory, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.

For guidance on your rent payment responsibilities, you might also read Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips. If you’re considering moving, check Canada's best rental listings platform for current Northwest Territories vacancies.

FAQ on Rent Increases in Northwest Territories

1. How much notice must my landlord give before raising the rent?
   At least three months’ written notice is required before a rent increase can take effect.
2. Can my landlord raise the rent more than once a year?
   No, rent can only be increased once in a 12-month period during your tenancy.
3. Does the Northwest Territories have a cap on rent increases?
   No, there is no maximum limit set by law, but all notice and timing rules still apply.
4. What do I do if I receive an illegal rent increase notice?
   Do not pay the increased amount. File an Application to a Rental Officer with the Residential Tenancy Office to challenge it.
5. Who can help me with questions or disputes about rent increases?
   The Residential Tenancy Office provides information, forms, and dispute resolution for tenants and landlords in the NWT.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Landlords must provide at least three months’ written notice before increasing rent.
• Rent can’t be raised more than once every 12 months per tenancy.
• There is no legal cap on rent increases, but notice requirements protect tenants.
• If you get an unlawful rent increase notice, file a dispute with the RTO promptly.

Stay informed and keep documentation of all communications to protect your rights as a tenant in the Northwest Territories.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancy Office (RTO) – For questions, applications, and dispute resolution.
• Phone: (867) 767-9292 ext. 32260
• Email: ResidentialTenancyOffice@gov.nt.ca
• For more information on tenant and landlord rights in your region, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Northwest Territories.
• Looking for new rentals? Canada's best rental listings platform makes it easy to search across the country.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act of the Northwest Territories (see Parts 2 and 5 for rent increase rules)
2. Residential Tenancy Office - NWT Court of Justice

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