Can Tenants Change the Locks in Nunavut? Legal Guide

Tenants in Nunavut often wonder if they can change the locks on their rental home—especially if safety or privacy is a concern. Nunavut has unique rules under its local tenancy laws, and both landlords and tenants must follow them closely. This article explains your rights, obligations, and what you must do before considering a lock change in Nunavut.

Lock Changes: What Nunavut Law Says

In Nunavut, changing the locks in a rental unit is not a simple decision tenants or landlords can make on their own. The Residential Tenancies Act of Nunavut sets out strict rules to protect both parties' rights¹. Section 17(1) of the Act states that neither the tenant nor the landlord may alter or add locks without the other's written consent or an order from the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office (RTO).

• If you change the locks without written permission, you could be required to pay for damages or even risk eviction.
• Landlords must also not change the locks to restrict a tenant's access without an RTO order—doing so is considered an illegal eviction.

When Can a Tenant Request a Lock Change?

You may have a valid reason to change your locks, such as personal safety, lost keys, or after a break-in. In these situations, it's essential to follow official procedures:

• Contact your landlord and request permission in writing to change the locks.
• If the landlord refuses and you have a safety-related reason, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for authorization.

Steps to Change the Locks Legally in Nunavut

Here’s how to stay on the right side of the law if you need to change the locks:

• Get written consent from your landlord before taking any action.
• If consent is refused, complete the Application for an Order (Form 1) to apply to the RTO. This form is available on the Government of Nunavut’s forms portal.
• File the completed form with the RTO, explaining your safety concerns or reasons for the lock change.
• Wait for the RTO’s decision before proceeding with any lock change.

For tenants, following the legal process protects your tenancy and security deposit and avoids unnecessary disputes. For more on your obligations, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Landlord Access and Your Privacy Rights

Even when the locks are changed with permission, tenants must provide a copy of the new key to the landlord. This is to ensure access in emergencies and for repairs, as outlined under Nunavut law. A landlord cannot enter your unit without proper notice except in cases of emergency.

Key Forms and Where to Get Help

• Application for an Order (Form 1): For lock change disputes or safety concerns, submit this form to the Residential Tenancies Office. Download Form 1 here.
• Consent Letter: If your landlord gives you permission in writing, keep this documentation.

If you believe your landlord has changed the locks on you without due process, this may be an illegal eviction. Learn about your rights by reading Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut.

What to Do if Locks Are Changed Illegally

• Contact the Residential Tenancies Office immediately and file a complaint.
• Document what happened, take photos, and keep any communications with your landlord.
• Submit Form 1 explaining the situation and request an order to have the lock restored.

For additional advice on keeping your rental safe and understanding essential rights as a tenant, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Other Tenant Tips and Resources

• If you’re preparing to move out, remember legal requirements for notice and final inspections.
• Keep a record of all communication with your landlord in situations involving safety, repairs, or disputes over lock changes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord change the locks without telling me?
   No. In Nunavut, a landlord cannot change the locks or restrict your access unless they have written consent or an order from the Residential Tenancies Office.
2. What should I do if I lost my keys and feel unsafe?
   Contact your landlord immediately. If they won’t cooperate, you can file an Application for an Order (Form 1) with the Residential Tenancies Office.
3. Do I need to give my landlord a key after a legal lock change?
   Yes. Even with proper consent, tenants must provide the landlord with a key to ensure proper emergency access.
4. Is it legal for tenants to change the locks in Nunavut without permission?
   No. Tenants must have written consent from the landlord or an order from the Residential Tenancies Office before any lock changes.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Never change the locks without written consent or a government order.
• In emergencies or for safety, use Form 1 and apply to the RTO for permission.
• Protect your rights by understanding Nunavut’s tenancy laws and keeping clear records of all landlord communication.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office (RTO): Official Site and Contact Information
• Residential Tenancies Act of Nunavut: View the full legislation here
• Tenant Advocacy: Local community legal clinics may provide support and guidance—check with your community government office.

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1. Nunavut’s Residential Tenancies Act. Read the law here.
2. Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office. Visit the official site.
3. Official tenancy forms and applications. Download here.

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