Legal Aid Options for Evicted Tenants in Nunavut

Facing eviction is stressful, but tenants in Nunavut have legal aid options and resources to help navigate their rights. This guide explains where to get help, how to access free legal services, and what crucial steps and official forms to expect during and after an eviction in Nunavut.

Understanding Eviction in Nunavut

Eviction is a legal process where your landlord requires you to leave your home, usually due to unpaid rent or other breaches of your rental agreement. In Nunavut, the Residential Tenancies Office oversees all tenancy matters. Your rights and responsibilities during eviction are set out in the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act¹. It’s important to know that you have opportunities to respond and seek advice before and after your tenancy ends.

Can Evicted Tenants Access Legal Aid in Nunavut?

Yes, tenants who are facing or have experienced eviction can apply for free legal help through Nunavut Legal Aid (Legal Services Board of Nunavut). Legal aid can advise you on your rights, help you understand notices and documents from your landlord, and represent your interests at hearings if needed.

Step-by-Step: What to Do After Receiving an Eviction Notice

• Carefully read the eviction notice and check the stated reasons and expiry date.
• Contact Nunavut Legal Aid to discuss your situation. Even after eviction, you may have recourse for review.
• Keep all written communications from your landlord and copies of any notices.
• Gather documents: your rental agreement, receipts, correspondence, and any relevant photos.
• Ask Legal Aid for advice on whether to challenge the eviction or apply for a hearing.

Key Forms and How to Use Them

To protect your rights, it's helpful to be aware of common tenancy forms used in Nunavut’s post-eviction process.

• Application to the Rental Office (No official number assigned):
  If you believe the eviction was unjust—or want to claim damages or return of property—you may file an application with the Residential Tenancies Office. Download the forms and get instructions at the Government of Nunavut – Residential Tenancies Office forms page. For example, a tenant who believes their landlord kept their deposit unfairly could use this form to request an order for its return. File the completed form in-person at the local GLO office or mail it as soon as possible after leaving the unit.
• Application for Legal Aid:
  Tenants with low incomes can access the Nunavut Legal Aid Application (download here). This form is used when you seek legal representation to challenge an eviction, address housing loss, or request advice about your situation.

Each form provides instructions and lists the information you’ll need to include. Contact Legal Aid or the Residential Tenancies Office if you have questions.

Your Rights and Next Steps After Eviction

In Nunavut, you may be entitled to:

• Notice in writing before eviction takes effect
• Fair treatment in hearings and applications
• The right to apply for return of deposits, if held
• Help from Legal Aid even after moving out

If you feel your rights were ignored or you were evicted unfairly, take action as soon as possible. For a broad overview of tenant and landlord obligations, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

If you move into a new rental home, protect yourself by recording the initial condition and reviewing your deposit terms. Learn more in Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Accessing Affordable New Rental Housing

Post-eviction, many tenants need to find a new home quickly. Affordable homes for rent in Canada are easily accessible online, helping you compare available choices and avoid potential issues with unscrupulous landlords.

For the most up-to-date tenant protections in Nunavut, consult Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut.

FAQ: Legal Aid and Tenant Rights After Eviction in Nunavut

1. Can I get legal aid after I've been evicted?
   Yes. Nunavut Legal Aid provides services to tenants even after an eviction. Contact them as soon as possible for advice or representation.
2. What if my landlord kept part of my rental deposit after eviction?
   You can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office to have your deposit returned if it was unfairly withheld.
3. Can I challenge a wrong eviction if I have already left the property?
   Yes, tenants can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for review, even after leaving the unit. Quick action is advised.
4. If I cannot afford a lawyer, where else can I get help?
   In addition to Nunavut Legal Aid, many communities also have tenant support workers or government housing outreach programs.
5. Do I need to attend a hearing in person?
   Hearings may occur in-person or remotely, depending on case needs and your location. Arrangements can be discussed with the Residential Tenancies Office.

Key Takeaways for Nunavut Tenants

• Legal aid is available in Nunavut for tenants before and after eviction
• Always read notices carefully and keep copies of all documents
• Contact the Residential Tenancies Office or Legal Aid as soon as possible to protect your rights

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nunavut Legal Aid: Free legal help for tenants — Call 1-866-606-9400 for urgent support.
• Residential Tenancies Office (Nunavut Justice): Tenancy complaint forms, information, and contact details.
• Government of Nunavut – Housing: Resources for housing support and public housing intake
• For up-to-date rights: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut

---

1. Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act
2. Nunavut Legal Aid (Legal Services Board of Nunavut)
3. Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy