Moving into a new rental in Nunavut brings many questions for tenants about what landlords must do before keys change hands. This guide explains landlord obligations in plain language so renters know what to expect: safe and habitable living conditions, working heat and smoke alarms, secure locks, clear written agreements, and disclosure of any fees or deposits. You will also learn about the inspection and documentation steps that protect your rights, what official forms and notices to watch for, and how to contact the right government office if issues come up. Practical tips and links to trusted Nunavut resources are included so tenants can move in with confidence.
Before You Move In: What landlords must provide
Landlords in Nunavut must ensure a rental unit is fit for habitation when a tenant takes possession. That means basic services and safety features are in working order, the unit is clean and free of significant hazards, and any agreed repairs are complete. Provide and document these items before or at the start of tenancy:
- heat and hot water in working order.
- secure locks and keys provided to the new tenant.
- working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms where required.
- a clean unit free of major mold, infestations or unsafe electrical/plumbing issues.
- clear written disclosure of any deposits, fees or conditions tied to the deposit.
- a copy of the signed tenancy agreement or lease.
- a move-in inspection or condition report agreed and signed by both parties.
Deposits, fees and documentation
In Nunavut, landlords must follow territorial rules on security deposits and any non-refundable fees. A written record of the deposit amount, how it will be held, and conditions for return helps avoid disputes. Tenants who want more detail on deposit rules can read the guide on Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know. Keep receipts and a signed inventory to support your claim when tenancy ends.
Move-in inspection and evidence
Complete a detailed move-in inspection together and attach photos or video to the condition report. A signed condition report reduces the chance of later disputes over damage or wear. For practical steps and a checklist, see the Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.
Notices, forms and legal references
Landlords must use the correct official forms and notices where the law requires them. Common examples are the standard tenancy agreement, move-in condition reports, and notices to end tenancy or to request entry for repairs. Know the name of the territorial tenancy legislation and where to find official forms so you use the right documents when something goes wrong [1][2][3].
Tenant rights and landlord responsibilities
Both landlords and tenants have responsibilities. Landlords must maintain habitability and follow rules on privacy and entry; tenants must keep the unit reasonably clean and report repairs promptly. For a plain-language overview of duties on both sides, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
FAQ
- What should be working in my unit when I move in?
- Landlords should provide basic services and safety items such as heat, hot water, locks, smoke detectors and a clean, habitable unit.
- Can a landlord charge any deposit they want?
- No. Deposits and refundable amounts must follow territory rules and be documented in writing; ask for a receipt and a clause in the agreement explaining conditions for return.
- What if the landlord refuses to fix serious issues before I move in?
- Keep written requests, take photos, and contact the territorial tenancy office or legal aid for steps to enforce habitability requirements.
How-To
- Inspect the unit in daylight and test heat, hot water and alarms within 24 hours of move-in.
- Complete and sign a move-in condition report with the landlord and keep a copy.
- Report any urgent repairs in writing and request a timeline for completion.
- Get receipts for any deposit paid and confirm how it will be held and returned.
- Keep all tenancy paperwork, messages and photos together in a folder for future reference.
Key Takeaways
- Landlords must provide a safe, habitable unit at the start of tenancy.
- Document condition and repairs with a signed report and photos.
- Keep written records of deposits, receipts and any promises made by the landlord.
Help and Support / Resources
- Government of Nunavut — Housing and tenancy information
- Government of Nunavut — Justice and tenancy forms
- Nunavut Legal Services — Tenant assistance
