If you are a tenant in Nunavut facing an illegal eviction, you need clear steps to protect your safety, possessions and legal rights. This guide explains when an eviction may be illegal, how and when to contact the RCMP, what evidence to collect, and how to follow up with territorial tenancy authorities. It uses plain language for renters and includes practical actions like documenting entry, securing photos and receipts, and preserving communication records. Whether you need an immediate police response, a formal complaint to a tenancy tribunal, or help finding local resources, this article walks through each stage so you can act quickly and confidently while staying safe in Nunavut.
What counts as an illegal eviction in Nunavut
An illegal eviction usually means your landlord tries to remove you or your belongings without following legal notice and tribunal processes. Examples include changing locks while you are home or away, removing your possessions, shutting off utilities to force you out, or physically blocking access to the unit. Illegal evictions can be criminal (forced entry, theft, intimidation) or civil (failure to follow tenancy rules). If you feel unsafe or a crime is happening, call police right away and consider the RCMP for remote communities.
When to call the RCMP
Call the RCMP immediately if anyone is using force, threats, or unlawful locks to remove you, or if your safety or property is at immediate risk. For urgent criminal situations—assault, threats, break-ins, or theft—phone emergency services. For non-urgent reporting about a past illegal eviction or criminal behaviour tied to a tenancy, contact your local RCMP detachment to file a report and request documentation for later tribunal or court use.[1]
Gather evidence before, during and after an incident
Good documentation makes it easier to prove an illegal eviction to police or a tribunal. Collect and preserve communication, receipts, photos and witness information as soon as it is safe to do so.
- Photos and videos of locks, damage, blocked doors, or removal of belongings.
- Copies of written notices, texts, emails, or a log of verbal threats and the dates they occurred.
- Receipts for rent, moving costs, or replacement locks and invoices for emergency repairs.
- Names and contact details of witnesses and the RCMP report number if one was filed.
How to report to the RCMP (practical steps)
Follow these steps to make a clear, usable report to the RCMP and preserve your options with territorial tenancy processes.
- Document the incident: photos, videos, notes, and preserve anything that may be evidence.
- Call the RCMP: for emergencies dial 911; for non-emergencies contact your local detachment to file a report and get a report number.[1]
- Ask for a written report: request a copy or report number to attach to any tribunal or court filings.
- Follow up in writing: email or text the detachment contact and keep a copy of your message and any responses.
Filing a tenancy complaint in Nunavut
After an RCMP report, you often must file a civil application with the territorial body that handles residential tenancy disputes to recover possession, damages or compensation. The relevant territorial legislation is the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act, which defines landlord and tenant rights and remedies.[2] Use the official application form to start a tribunal case and attach your RCMP report and evidence.
- Application to the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Tribunal (use the official application form when requesting dispute resolution).
- Include the RCMP report number, dated photos, communications, witness names, and receipts as evidence.
- If locks were changed or utilities cut, attach invoices for repairs or replacement locks to support your claim for expenses.
Working with local legal services and supports
You may qualify for legal advice or assistance from territorial legal aid, community legal clinics, or tenant support services. Even if police made a report, a legal advisor can help with tribunal filings, temporary orders and civil remedies. For information about tenants' fundamental rights in Nunavut see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut and for common tenancy problems see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.
FAQ
- When should I call the RCMP for an illegal eviction?
- Call immediately if there is physical force, threats, theft, or you cannot safely access your home; for non-emergencies contact the local detachment to file a report and get a report number.
- Can the RCMP force a landlord to let me back into my unit?
- Police can intervene for criminal acts or to prevent a breach of the peace; for civil eviction disputes you may need a tribunal order to regain legal possession.
- What documents should I include in a tenancy tribunal application after an illegal eviction?
- Include the RCMP report number, dated photos or videos, copies of notices or messages, receipts for expenses, and witness contact information.
How-To
- Gather and time-stamp evidence: photos, videos, messages and receipts.
- Contact the RCMP: call 911 for emergencies or your local detachment for non-urgent reports and request a report number.[1]
- File a tribunal application under the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act and attach police and evidence documentation.[2]
- Seek legal advice or tenant support to prepare for hearings and possible orders for possession or compensation.
Key Takeaways
- Call RCMP immediately for threats, force, theft or when your safety is at risk.
- Document every detail with photos, dates, messages and witness names to support police and tribunal claims.
- File the correct tribunal application and include the police report to pursue civil remedies.
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] Royal Canadian Mounted Police - Official RCMP site for reporting and detachment contacts
- [2] Government of Nunavut - Territorial information including the Residential Tenancies Act
- [3] Nunavut Court of Justice - Court contacts and procedures
