Know and Assert Your Tenant Rights against Discrimination in Nunavut

If you're sharing a rental home or searching for a new place in Nunavut, understanding your rights regarding tenant discrimination is essential. Discrimination in housing—whether by a landlord, property manager, or co-tenant—is prohibited, and Nunavut's laws offer important protections to help you defend your rights.

What Is Tenant Discrimination?

Tenant discrimination occurs when a landlord, roommate, or property manager treats someone unfairly or denies housing based on protected personal characteristics. Nunavut's laws safeguard individuals against discrimination on grounds defined by the Nunavut Human Rights Act, including:

• Race, colour, or ethnic origin
• Religion or creed
• Sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation
• Disability
• Family status, marital status
• Age, except for minors
• And more as listed under the Act

Landlords and co-tenants cannot evict, deny tenancy, or treat you differently because of these grounds.

What Protections Do Tenants Have in Nunavut?

Nunavut tenants have rights protected both under the Residential Tenancies Act (SNu 2010, c.13)¹ and the Nunavut Human Rights Act². These laws ensure equal access to housing, including shared and roommate situations.

• Equal treatment in applications: Landlords cannot refuse you based on protected characteristics.
• Protection during tenancy: You cannot be evicted or harassed due to your identity.
• Roommate and shared housing: These protections apply whether dealing with landlords or peers when renting together.

For more, see your rights and obligations detailed at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut.

Examples of Housing Discrimination

Discrimination can occur in many ways. You may experience it if you:

• Are refused an apartment or room after the landlord learns of your ethnicity or religion
• Receive different rules or rent increases that target your family type or disability
• Are harassed or excluded by a roommate because of your gender or sexual orientation

These actions are unlawful. If you're unsure, compare your experience with Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

What To Do If You Face Discrimination in Nunavut

If you believe you've been discriminated against as a tenant or roommate, Nunavut law gives you clear action steps. Document every incident and gather as much written evidence as possible, like messages or written notices.

1. Communicate with the Other Party

• Speak to your landlord or roommate directly if you feel safe.
• State the issue and ask them to stop the discriminatory conduct.

2. Contact the Residential Tenancies Office

The Residential Tenancies Office of Nunavut handles landlord-tenant disputes. You may file a complaint or seek mediation, particularly if discrimination affects rent, repairs, or your rental agreement.

3. File a Human Rights Complaint

The Nunavut Human Rights Tribunal is responsible for investigating and resolving discrimination claims. Submit your complaint using their official online complaint form or download and complete the "Complaint Form" (no specific form number; available directly on the site). Explain how you were discriminated against, the details of the incident, and attach supporting documents.

Roommates and Shared Housing: What Are Your Rights?

If you live with roommates, your rights against discrimination do not change. Shared arrangements can sometimes lead to conflicts, so it's vital to:

• Have a written roommate agreement;
• Discuss expectations and respect for each other's identities;
• Contact Nunavut's Residential Tenancies Office for advice if issues arise.

These protections complement your responsibilities—see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for more on what each party should do to maintain fair housing.

Applicable Forms and How To Use Them

Nunavut Human Rights Tribunal Complaint Form:

• When to use: If you believe you have been discriminated against by a landlord or roommate, whether during application, tenancy, or eviction.
• How to use: Fill out the complaint form with specific details and submit it online or by mail. Get full instructions at the Nunavut Human Rights Tribunal website.
• Practical example: If you're denied a rental unit after disclosing a disability, use this form to file a formal complaint.

Summary of Reporting Steps

• Document the issue and gather proof.
• Consider speaking directly to address the problem.
• Contact Nunavut’s Residential Tenancies Office for guidance or mediation.
• File a complaint with the Nunavut Human Rights Tribunal using the official form.

Finding a new place? Browse apartments for rent in Canada using trusted listings for a fair and supportive rental experience.

1. What are my rights if I’m being discriminated against as a roommate in Nunavut?
   You have the right to equal treatment, regardless of your background or identity. Discrimination from anyone in a shared rental setting is prohibited. You can seek help from Nunavut’s Residential Tenancies Office or file a human rights complaint.
2. Can a landlord legally deny me housing for having children or a disability?
   No, Nunavut law prohibits discrimination based on family status, disability, and other protected grounds under the Human Rights Act. Denial for these reasons is unlawful.
3. What forms do I use to report discrimination in Nunavut?
   Use the Nunavut Human Rights Tribunal Complaint Form. It can be completed online or by mail. Add supporting documentation and a clear explanation of your situation.
4. Does the Residential Tenancies Office help with discrimination issues?
   Yes, the Residential Tenancies Office can provide guidance or mediation for disputes involving landlord or roommate discrimination, especially if it affects your tenancy rights.
5. Where can I find more information on tenant rights in Nunavut?
   See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut for a summary of tenant and landlord responsibilities.

In summary, knowing the law is key. Document incidents, know where to get help, and use official complaint channels when faced with discrimination.

• Tenant discrimination is illegal in Nunavut, whether from a landlord or roommate.
• You have clear steps and official channels to report unfair treatment.
• For support, contact the Residential Tenancies Office or the Nunavut Human Rights Tribunal.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nunavut Human Rights Tribunal: File a complaint or learn about your rights.
• Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office: Get help with tenancy disputes, mediation, and general inquiries. Phone: (867) 975-5250
• Community Legal Services of Nunavut: Free legal clinic for tenants (phone: (867) 979-5377 or toll-free 1-866-606-9400)
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (SNu 2010, c.13)
2. Nunavut Human Rights Act

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