Bringing a pet into your rental home in Nunavut can make life more comfortable, but it’s important to know how rental rules apply to pets. Many Canadian provinces have specific laws about pet deposits and fees. Here’s what tenants in Nunavut need to know.
What Does Nunavut Law Say About Pet Deposits?
Nunavut’s rental laws are set out in the Residential Tenancies Act (Nunavut)[1]. This legislation regulates what deposits landlords may collect from tenants when renting a unit. As of 2024, Nunavut landlords are allowed to ask for a security deposit, but there are specific rules about other types of deposits, like those for pets.
Are Pet Deposits Allowed?
Under the current law in Nunavut, landlords cannot charge a separate pet deposit. The Residential Tenancies Act only permits a landlord to collect a security deposit (also called a damage deposit), which cannot exceed one month’s rent. No additional or separate deposit for pets is allowed, regardless of the type of animal.
Any landlord asking for more than the permitted security deposit—including for pets—is acting outside the law. If this happens, tenants can file a complaint with Nunavut’s Residential Tenancies Office.
What Deposits Can Landlords Collect?
In Nunavut, a landlord is permitted to collect:
- Security deposit (damage deposit): Can’t be more than one month’s rent. Must be returned with interest when the rental ends, unless there’s lawful cause to keep some or all of it (e.g., damages beyond normal wear and tear).
For more on allowed rental deposits, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
Note: The security deposit can cover damage caused by a pet, but cannot be increased just because a pet lives in the unit.
What About ‘Non-Refundable’ Pet Fees?
Some landlords may try to charge a ‘pet fee’ instead of a deposit. This is also not allowed under Nunavut law. Any fee or deposit outside of the permitted security (damage) deposit is unlawful. Always get receipts for any deposit or fee you pay and keep copies of your rental agreement for your records.
Exceptions: Service Animals
Tenancy law makes a distinction for service animals used by persons with disabilities. Landlords may not discriminate or charge extra deposits specifically for service animals. If you use a service animal and are being asked for a pet deposit or fee, make this known to your landlord and, if needed, seek assistance through the Residential Tenancies Office.
Filing a Complaint or Resolving Deposit Issues
If you believe your landlord has asked for an illegal pet deposit or fee:
- Document your communications in writing.
- Keep all receipts, agreements, and related documents.
- Contact the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office directly to ask for support or to file a complaint.
Required Forms for Tenants
For disputes involving illegal deposits or fees, tenants can use the official Complaint to the Residential Tenancies Office form (Form 1), available via the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office:
- Form Name: "Application to the Residential Tenancies Office" (Form 1)
- When to Use: If your landlord requests or retains a deposit not allowed by law—for example, a separate pet deposit—you may file this form to have the issue investigated and resolved.
- How to Use: Download and complete the form with all relevant details and submit to the address or email listed on the form.
- Download the Application (Form 1) from the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office
For more details about tenant and landlord rights in Nunavut, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut.
Key Tips for Tenants with Pets
- Review your rental agreement in full before signing.
- Know your rights around deposits—no separate pet deposits or fees permitted.
- The regular damage deposit can still be used for damage, including that caused by pets, but it cannot exceed the legal maximum.
- If you’re planning to bring a new pet into the rental, communicate openly with your landlord.
Looking for more tips? See Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
Ready to search for pet-friendly rentals? Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca to view options across Nunavut and all of Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can my landlord increase my deposit if I want to get a pet?
No, landlords in Nunavut cannot ask for a higher deposit if you have a pet. Only one standard security deposit is allowed by law. - What can my security deposit be used for?
The deposit can be used for damages beyond regular wear and tear (including pet damage), missing keys, or unpaid rent, but not as a penalty for simply having a pet. - Is a ‘pet fee’ different from a deposit, and is it allowed?
No, any extra fee or charge for a pet (deposit or non-refundable fee) is not permitted under Nunavut rental law. - What if I already paid a separate pet deposit?
If you have paid an extra pet deposit, ask your landlord for a refund and, if refused, contact the Residential Tenancies Office for assistance. - Where can I get help if there’s a dispute?
Tenants can contact the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office for support and to file official complaints.
Conclusion: What Tenants Should Remember
- Landlords in Nunavut cannot charge extra deposits or fees specifically for pets—only a standard damage deposit is permitted.
- Know your rights and save all paperwork if an issue arises with pet-related charges.
- The Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office is your official resource for help with landlord-tenant issues.
Staying informed helps you protect your rights and enjoy your rental home—with or without a furry friend.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office – Offers forms, dispute resolution, and answers to tenant questions.
- Government of Nunavut – Access housing and tenant support resources.
- For national rental listings: Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca
