Common Landlord Violations and Penalties in Nunavut

As a tenant in Nunavut, it’s important to know your rights and understand what actions by landlords are considered violations of the law. Knowing how to identify common landlord violations and what penalties landlords can face helps keep your rental experience safe and secure.

Understanding Landlord Obligations in Nunavut

Landlords in Nunavut must follow the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA), which sets out rules for property maintenance, rent collection, privacy, and dispute resolution. The Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office enforces these rules and handles tenant-landlord disputes.^[1]

Being aware of these obligations empowers tenants to spot possible violations early, allowing for faster resolution.

Frequent Landlord Violations in Nunavut

• Failing to Maintain a Safe and Healthy Home: Landlords must keep properties safe, clean, and properly maintained. Neglecting repairs or allowing health hazards like mold or pests can be a serious violation.
• Improper Entry: Entering your rental unit without giving legal notice or permission, except in emergencies, is not allowed.
• Withholding or Mishandling Security Deposits: Landlords have specific responsibilities about the amount, storage, and return of deposits.
• Unlawful Eviction: A landlord cannot evict without following legal procedures or cause.
• Rent Increases Without Notice: Landlords must give the minimum required written notice before raising rent—otherwise, it’s illegal.

If you’re facing any of these problems, see our in-depth guide: Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Health and Safety Violations

Nunavut’s rental laws require landlords to keep the property safe and liveable at all times. If you have persistent issues with mold, heating, or pests, these are considered health and safety violations. Tenants can file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Office.

Learn more about hazards to watch for in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Penalties for Landlord Violations in Nunavut

If a landlord breaks the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act, they can face several types of penalties:

• Orders to Remedy: The tribunal may order the landlord to fix the issue promptly (e.g., make urgent repairs, return a deposit).
• Compensation to Tenants: Tenants may be awarded compensation for losses suffered due to the violation (such as extra costs caused by unsafe conditions).
• Administrative Penalties: For serious or ongoing offences, the tribunal can fine landlords or issue further penalties according to law.

Every case is unique, but penalties intend to ensure landlords comply with the law and that tenants’ rights are upheld.

Official Forms for Tenants

To protect your rights or report a violation, tenants can use specific forms:

• Application to the Residential Tenancies Office (Form 1): If you believe your landlord isn’t meeting their obligations, fill out this form to request an official review.
  Example: If your landlord ignores repeated requests to repair unsafe heating, submit Form 1 to have the tribunal investigate.
  Download Application to the Residential Tenancies Office (Form 1)

The Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office handles all official applications and provides support on form completion.^[2]

How to Report and Resolve Tenant-Landlord Problems

Here’s a quick summary of what tenants can do when facing a landlord violation:

• Document the problem with notes, dated photographs, or letters.
• Formally notify the landlord in writing, giving them a reasonable chance to correct the issue.
• If no resolution, submit an Application to the Residential Tenancies Office (Form 1) and attach your evidence.
• Attend your scheduled hearing or provide any requested details to the tribunal.

More tips on addressing landlord issues can be found in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

For those searching for a better rental fit, you can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to explore new options.

See more details about tenant and landlord rules at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do if my landlord won’t make urgent repairs?
   You can notify your landlord in writing of the repair issue. If nothing changes after reasonable time, submit an Application to the Residential Tenancies Office (Form 1) along with evidence (photos/letters).
2. Is my landlord allowed to enter my rental unit at any time?
   No, a landlord must give at least 24 hours’ written notice before entry, except in emergencies.
3. How quickly does my landlord have to return my deposit when I move out?
   They must return it within 10 days of the end of tenancy, unless you agree in writing to another arrangement or there are damages beyond normal wear.
4. What penalties can a landlord face for violating Nunavut’s tenancy laws?
   Penalties include orders to remedy issues, compensation payments, and administrative fines, depending on the violation’s severity.

Key Takeaways for Nunavut Tenants

• Understand your rights under Nunavut’s Residential Tenancies Act
• Document and report landlord violations to the Residential Tenancies Office as soon as possible
• Use official forms for complaints and keep detailed records of all correspondence

Being informed and proactive can help you resolve problems faster and ensure a safe, fair tenancy.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office – Information, forms, and support (Phone: 1-867-975-7214)
• Legal aid and tenant support: Nunavut Legal Aid Service
• For more on your rights: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut

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1. Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office – official body for rental disputes and complaints
2. Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act (C-5): Full Legislation

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