How Nunavut Tenants Can Handle Mould and Air Quality Problems

Mould and poor indoor air quality are more than just inconveniences—they can have serious impacts on your health and well-being, especially in Nunavut's unique environment. As a tenant, you have the right to a safe and healthy home. This guide explains what steps to take if you’re facing mould, dampness, or poor air quality in your rental, your landlord’s responsibilities, and how Nunavut law protects you.

Understanding Mould and Indoor Air Quality in Nunavut Rentals

Mould thrives in damp, poorly ventilated spaces. Nunavut’s cold climate means homes are often tightly sealed, creating the potential for moisture build-up and mould growth. Poor indoor air quality can arise from mould, dust, tobacco smoke, or other pollutants—sometimes leading to allergies, asthma, or more serious health problems.

Why Mould and Air Quality Matter

• Mould often produces musty smells and visible spots on walls, ceilings, and windows.
• Poor air quality can cause headaches, fatigue, irritated eyes, or worsen breathing problems.
• Health concerns are especially serious for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory issues.

Landlord and Tenant Responsibilities for Safety

Under Nunavut’s Residential Tenancies Act (Nunavut)¹, your landlord must maintain the rental property in a good state of repair and fit for habitation—including addressing issues like mould and unsafe indoor air.

• Landlords are required to fix leaks, ventilation problems, or insulation issues that cause mould.
• Tenants should promptly report any mould, dampness, or air quality concerns to their landlord (preferably in writing).
• Both parties must cooperate to prevent and address problems—for example, by ensuring proper heating and ventilation where possible.

For details on each side’s duties, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Health and Safety: Your Rights as a Tenant

The law protects tenants from health hazards like mould. If you’ve reported a problem but your landlord does not take reasonable action, you may file a formal complaint or apply to the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office (RTO), which oversees rental disputes in Nunavut.

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

Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Application to the Rental Officer (Form 1): Used to ask the RTO for help if your landlord does not resolve a mould or air quality issue.
  Example: You reported persistent mould to your landlord two weeks ago, but nothing has been done. You can fill out Form 1 – Application to Rental Officer and submit it to the RTO. Instructions available on the official Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office forms page.
• Notice to Remedy Breach of Agreement (Form 5): Used by tenants to formally notify landlords of a breach, such as failure to address mould or air quality problems.
  Example: If mold is not being fixed, fill out Form 5 – Notice to Remedy Breach of Agreement and give it to your landlord. More information can be found at the same Nunavut RTO forms resource.

Steps Tenants Should Take if Mould or Air Quality Problems Occur

If you notice a mould problem or have concerns about the air you breathe at home, take these steps:

• Document the issue with clear photos, detailed notes, and dates.
• Report the problem in writing (by email or letter) to your landlord as soon as possible.
• Allow your landlord a reasonable time to respond and make repairs.
• If the issue is not addressed, consider submitting Form 5 to formally notify your landlord of the breach.
• If still unresolved after notice, complete Form 1 to apply to the Rental Officer for help. Include copies of your notices and evidence when submitting.

More Resources and Where to Get Help

• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut – Essential overview of Nunavut tenant and landlord law.
• Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office – For forms, guidance, and dispute resolution.
• Nunavut Public Health – For advice on mould, housing, and indoor air safety.

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FAQ: Tenant Questions About Mould and Air Quality in Nunavut Rentals

1. What should I do first if I find mould in my Nunavut rental?
   Take clear photos or videos, write down the problem and the date, and inform your landlord in writing promptly.
2. Is my landlord required by law to fix mould problems?
   Yes. Nunavut law states landlords must keep the property safe and healthy, which includes resolving mould and air quality hazards.
3. What if my landlord ignores my requests for repairs?
   You may serve them with a Notice to Remedy Breach of Agreement (Form 5). If the issue is unresolved, apply to the Residential Tenancies Office with Form 1.
4. Can I withhold rent because of mould?
   No, you are generally not allowed to withhold rent. Follow the formal complaint process instead. Withholding rent puts you at risk of eviction.
5. Where can I learn more about my rights in Nunavut?
   Visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut.

Key Takeaways

• Mould and poor air quality are serious health issues—Nunavut law says landlords must fix them.
• Document all problems, notify your landlord in writing, and use official forms if needed.
• The Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office can help resolve disputes if repairs are not made.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office (RTO): Call (867) 975-6102 or visit for forms, advice, and dispute resolution.
• Nunavut Health – Environmental Public Health: For concerns about mould and air safety.
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut: Clear overview of Nunavut tenant rights.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Nunavut), R.S.N.W.T. 1988,c.R-5. Read the official text.
2. Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office: Guidance and forms.
3. Nunavut Public Health: Environmental health info.

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