Are Rental Application Fees Allowed in Nunavut? Tenant Guide

As a tenant searching for a new home in Nunavut, you may wonder about the fees that landlords or property managers are allowed to charge during the application process. Understanding the rules around rental application fees and deposits can help you protect your rights and avoid unexpected costs while finding a place to live in Nunavut.

Rental Application Fees in Nunavut: What the Law Says

In Nunavut, the law is clear: landlords are not allowed to charge you a rental application fee when you apply for a rental home. This includes any payment requested simply to view, apply for, or be considered for a unit. The legislation that governs residential tenancies in Nunavut is the Residential Tenancies Act (Nunavut)^[1], and the Rental Office is the official authority overseeing rental disputes in the territory.

What Fees CAN Landlords Legally Charge?

Although application fees are not allowed, landlords can request certain other payments from tenants. These may include:

• Security or damage deposits (with legal limits and proper documentation)
• Rent payments as agreed in your lease agreement

For more details on damage deposits and limits, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Key Responsibilities for Landlords and Tenants

Both tenants and landlords in Nunavut have clear rights and responsibilities outlined by law. If you suspect you are being asked for an unlawful application fee, you can:

• Ask the landlord for clarification and reference Nunavut’s tenancy laws
• Refuse to pay any application fee and consider reporting the request to the Rental Office
• Contact the Rental Office if you feel your rights are being violated

For an overview of the general rights and duties of each party, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut.

Acceptable Deposits and Forms in Nunavut

Under Nunavut’s tenancy rules, landlords can request a security or damage deposit, but there are rules:

• The maximum deposit is one month’s rent
• Landlords must provide a written receipt
• Deposits cannot be used as a rental application or holding fee

No special Nunavut government forms are required just to pay a damage deposit, but your signed rental agreement should clearly state the amount and purpose of any deposit. To handle rental disputes or report illegal fees, tenants use the Application to the Rental Officer form.

Form Name: Application to the Rental Officer
How It’s Used: Tenants can submit this form to resolve issues such as being charged unlawful fees or to dispute deposit returns. For example, if you are charged an application fee, you can use this form to request a hearing.
Learn more about the Rental Office and find official forms here.

Tips for a Fair Application Process

• Never pay a fee just to view a unit or have your rental application considered
• Get all deposit terms in writing
• Review your tenant rights before signing anything—see Nunavut’s rental facts page linked above
• Keep copies of all receipts and communications

For tenants moving into their first home, check out our Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home.

If you’re looking for a new place, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for trusted listings and helpful search tools.

FAQ: Nunavut Rental Application Fees

1. Can a landlord charge any fees just to process my rental application?
   No. In Nunavut, landlords cannot legally charge application fees or payments for considering your application.
2. What if I have already paid an application fee?
   Contact the landlord first to request a refund and inform them of Nunavut’s laws. If they refuse, submit an application to the Rental Office to recover your money.
3. Are there other fees I need to pay before moving in?
   Only legal deposits (such as a damage deposit, up to one month’s rent) and your first rent payment are allowed. No extra or hidden fees should be charged.
4. What government office handles tenant-landlord disputes in Nunavut?
   The Nunavut Rental Office manages rental disputes, illegal fees, and tenancy issues.
5. Where can I view my rights as a tenant in Nunavut?
   See the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut page for an overview of your rights.

Summary: What Tenants Should Remember

• Rental application fees are not legal in Nunavut—never pay just to apply or view a unit
• Only pay legal deposits and rent as outlined in your agreement
• Contact the Rental Office for help with disputes or unlawful charges

Knowing your rights means you’re less likely to face unfair or illegal fees during your rental search in Nunavut.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nunavut Rental Office – Handles applications, returns, and general tenancy questions
• For tenancy laws and forms: Official Residential Tenancies Information
• Local legal clinics and advocacy groups can assist if you need free legal advice
• Review your rights at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Nunavut) – Official Site

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