10 Essential Facts About Moving In and Out for Nunavut Renters

Moving in or out of a rental unit in Nunavut can be challenging, especially with the unique laws and climate of the territory. These 10 essential facts will help Nunavut tenants confidently transition in or out of their rental homes—covering everything from deposits to final inspections, key documents, and your legal rights.

1. Know Nunavut’s Tenancy Laws and Your Rights

All tenants and landlords in Nunavut are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act (Nunavut)^[1]. It outlines vital rules for rent, deposits, notice periods, inspections, and dispute resolution. For an overview of your regional rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut.

2. Security Deposits: Maximum Amount and Return Process

In Nunavut, a landlord may request a security deposit—also called a rental deposit—up to one month's rent. This deposit must be held in trust and returned (with interest) after you leave, less lawful deductions for damage or unpaid rent. For more details, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

3. Inspection Reports Are Your Proof

Before moving in, you and your landlord should walk through the unit together and complete an initial inspection report. This report documents the property’s condition at the start and helps avoid disputes over damage when moving out. A final inspection should also be done when you leave.

Tip: Take photos, keep signed copies, and request that your landlord participate in both inspections. Learn more in the Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

4. Always Get a Written Tenancy Agreement

A written lease or tenancy agreement protects both parties, outlining rent, rules, responsibilities, and termination conditions. If you don’t receive one, you still have legal rights under the Act.

5. Notice Periods: Giving and Receiving Proper Notice

Ending your rental requires proper written notice:

• Fixed-term tenancy: Cannot generally be ended early without landlord consent or a legally approved reason.
• Month-to-month tenancy: Requires at least one full month's written notice before leaving.

If your landlord asks you to move out, they must also give you proper written notice based on your lease and the Act’s requirements.^[1]

6. Key Official Forms for Nunavut Renters

• Notice to Terminate a Tenancy (NU Form N1): Used by tenants who want to end a lease; submit to your landlord at least 30 days before your intended move-out. Find official Nunavut forms here.
• Application to the Rental Officer (NU Form A1): If there is a dispute or your landlord won’t return your deposit, use this form to apply for a hearing. Submit it to the Nunavut Rental Office.

Always keep a copy of any official forms submitted.

7. Paying Rent: Methods and Receipts

Rent is usually due on the first of the month unless otherwise stated in your lease. Always demand a receipt for cash payments and clarify acceptable payment methods with your landlord in advance.

8. Your Right to a Clean, Safe Home

Landlords in Nunavut must ensure rentals are clean, structurally sound, and meet health standards at move-in and throughout the tenancy. If you encounter safety issues, promptly notify your landlord and keep a written record. For more, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

9. Final Inspection and Getting Your Deposit Back

When moving out, participate in a final inspection with your landlord. Ensure the unit is as clean as when you moved in, fix minor damage, and return all keys. If you disagree with damage deductions, you can file a dispute using NU Form A1 at the Rental Office.

10. What If There’s a Dispute?

If disagreements arise over notice, conditions, or your deposit, contact the Nunavut Rental Office. They handle all residential tenancy disputes and maintain essential forms. If needed, you can apply for a hearing using NU Form A1.

FAQ for Nunavut Renters

1. How much can my landlord charge for a security deposit in Nunavut?
   Landlords may not charge more than one month’s rent as a security deposit. This deposit must be returned, with interest, after you move out—minus any legal deductions.
2. How much notice do I need to give before moving out?
   If you are on a month-to-month tenancy, you must provide at least one full month's written notice, delivered before the first day of the final month of your tenancy.
3. Can I end my lease early in Nunavut?
   Ending a fixed-term agreement early usually requires landlord consent, unless there’s a legal reason (such as domestic violence or a major breach). Always review your lease and seek guidance from the Rental Office if unsure.
4. What should I do if my landlord does not return my deposit?
   If your deposit isn’t returned within a reasonable timeframe, or if deductions seem unfair, apply to the Nunavut Rental Office for dispute resolution using Form A1.
5. Where can I find official tenant forms for Nunavut?
   Official rental forms—including notice to terminate and dispute application forms—are available on the Government of Nunavut housing page.

How To: Common Actions for Nunavut Tenants

1. How to complete an initial rental inspection?
   Schedule a time with your landlord, walk through the property together, note existing issues, and have both parties sign and date the inspection report. Take photos for your records.
2. How to give proper notice when moving out?
   Complete the "Notice to Terminate a Tenancy" form, deliver it in person or by registered mail to your landlord at least one full month before your intended move-out date, and keep a copy.
3. How to apply for deposit return if your landlord refuses?
   Fill out the "Application to the Rental Officer" (Form A1), attach documentation (inspection report, receipts), and submit it to the Nunavut Rental Office for dispute resolution.

Key Takeaways for Nunavut Renters Moving In or Out

• Know your rights under the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act and use official forms for all major steps.
• Always complete move-in and move-out inspection reports, and keep copies.
• For disputes or challenges, contact the Nunavut Rental Office promptly.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Government of Nunavut: Tenants & Housing Programs
• Nunavut Rental Office (Tenancy Dispute Resolution)
• See all your rights and obligations here: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut

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1. [1] Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act (current version)

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