Filing a Group Tenant Complaint in Nunavut: Step-by-Step Guide

Facing rental issues with other tenants in Nunavut? Working together through a group complaint can bring greater attention to your concerns, whether they relate to repairs, health and safety, or unlawful landlord actions. This plain-language guide walks Nunavut tenants through the group complaint process—empowering you to take action and understand your rights.

Understanding Group Complaints in Nunavut

Group complaints let multiple tenants with the same issue file one application against a landlord. This can be an efficient way to address problems like neglected repairs, unsafe living conditions, or systemic breaches of the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act^[1]. By joining together, tenants increase their chances of resolving disputes.

When Should You File a Group Complaint?

• Your building has widespread maintenance or repair problems, like heating issues or ongoing pest infestations.
• Many tenants are affected by the same unlawful rule or policy.
• There are health or safety violations impacting multiple rental units.

Before applying, try to talk directly with your landlord. If issues are not resolved, a group complaint may be the next step.

Who Handles Rental Disputes in Nunavut?

Rental disputes are managed by the Nunavut Rental Office, which is part of the Department of Family Services. This body reviews complaints and helps enforce tenants’ rights under the Residential Tenancies Act^[1].

Official Forms for Nunavut Tenant Disputes

The key form for making a complaint is the "Application for Resolution of a Dispute" (Form 1). This form is used when tenants—individually or as a group—want to bring issues before the Rental Office.

• Form Name: Application for Resolution of a Dispute (Form 1)
• When to Use: File if you and other tenants share the same problem (e.g., multiple units without heat)
• Download the Application for Resolution of a Dispute (Form 1)

Designate one or two people as contact representatives for your group. List all tenants participating, include detailed information about the issue, and attach any evidence (emails, photos, etc.). Submit the form by mail, email, or in person to the Rental Office.

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

• Ensure all members of the group sign the application.
• Gather thorough evidence—photos, dated records, repair requests, and communications.
• Clearly outline how the issue affects each tenant.

If your complaint relates to health, pests, or emergency repairs, check out our guides to Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting and Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

Step-by-Step: How to File a Group Complaint

• Step 1: Meet with other affected tenants to confirm the issue and agree on the main representatives.
• Step 2: Attempt to resolve the issue with your landlord directly (keep records of your efforts).
• Step 3: Gather evidence and complete the "Application for Resolution of a Dispute (Form 1)", listing all participating tenants and their contact details.
• Step 4: Attach supporting documents (e.g., photos, letters, medical notes if health is impacted).
• Step 5: Submit the form and supporting materials to the Nunavut Rental Office by mail, email, or in person. (Contact information is in the help section below.)
• Step 6: Wait for confirmation and further instructions from the Rental Office. You may be called to a hearing or asked for additional information.

Your Rights While a Complaint Is Under Review

Tenants are protected from retaliation for making a bona fide complaint. The landlord cannot evict or harass you simply for joining a group application. Review more details about Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut.

After the rental agreement is signed, it’s important to know your ongoing rights and responsibilities, whether you are making a complaint or just starting your tenancy. For further reading, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

For those seeking a new place or exploring other housing options, Explore rental homes in your area.

FAQ: Group Complaints and Tenant Disputes in Nunavut

1. Can tenants be evicted for filing a group complaint?
   No. The Residential Tenancies Act prohibits landlords from retaliating against tenants who exercise their rights, including filing complaints.
2. What kind of evidence should we include in our application?
   Include clear and specific documentation: written requests to landlords, photographs, medical statements (if health-related), and statements from all involved tenants.
3. What happens after we submit our group complaint?
   The Rental Office reviews your application. You may be invited to a mediation or hearing, and both sides will have an opportunity to present evidence before a decision is made.
4. Is there a fee to file a group complaint?
   As of 2024, tenants are not required to pay a fee for filing most complaints at the Nunavut Rental Office. Always confirm with the Rental Office for the latest updates.
5. Can one tenant file on behalf of everyone?
   Yes, but the application must clearly list all affected tenants and be signed by each person participating in the complaint.

Key Takeaways for Nunavut Tenants

• Group complaints are a powerful way to address common issues in your building
• Use the "Application for Resolution of a Dispute (Form 1)" and submit to the Nunavut Rental Office
• Your legal rights are protected when advocating for proper maintenance and fair treatment

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nunavut Rental Office – Information and Contact
  Email: ResidentialTenancy@gov.nu.ca
  Phone: (867) 975-5233
• Residential Tenancies Act (Nunavut) – official text
• Local tenant organizations or legal aid clinics may also offer free support

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1. Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act
2. Nunavut Rental Office – Department of Family Services
3. Application for Resolution of a Dispute (Form 1)

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