LTB Decision Timelines for Tenants in Nunavut

If you’re a tenant in Nunavut dealing with a dispute—whether it’s about unpaid rent, needed repairs, or a disagreement with your landlord—you’ll interact with the Nunavut Rental Office, not an LTB (Landlord and Tenant Board, an Ontario term). Understanding how decisions are made and typical wait times can help you plan and manage expectations during the resolution process. This guide explains timelines, what to expect after you file, and how to navigate Nunavut’s official dispute resolution procedures as a tenant.

Who Handles Tenant Disputes in Nunavut?

Nunavut does not use an LTB. Instead, tenant-landlord disputes are handled by the Nunavut Rental Office. This office administers the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act, the main law protecting both tenants and landlords in the territory.^[1]

Common Reasons Tenants File Disputes

• Unresolved maintenance and repair issues
• Security deposit return disputes
• Disagreements about rent increases
• Receiving an eviction notice

For more on frequent rental challenges, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Dispute Resolution Process and Timeline

Dispute resolution in Nunavut involves several steps:

• Filing an Application: Tenants (or landlords) complete an Application (Form 1) to the Rental Office, outlining the issue and the desired outcome.
• Serving Notice: Both parties are notified of the hearing date, usually several weeks after filing, depending on volume and case type.
• Hearing: A Rental Officer holds a hearing—sometimes in person or by phone—where both sides can present evidence and arguments.
• Decision Issuance: The Rental Officer renders a written decision, typically within a few days to a few weeks after the hearing.

In Nunavut, the average wait time to receive a decision is 2–4 weeks after the hearing, but times may vary depending on the complexity of the case and office workload. Urgent issues, such as emergency repairs or health and safety matters, may receive priority.

Official Nunavut Dispute Forms for Tenants

• Application (Form 1): Used to initiate any request or complaint under the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act.
  Example: If your landlord refuses to return your security deposit or ignores essential repairs, you’d submit Form 1.
  Download Form 1 – Application (Nunavut Rental Office)
• Notice of Hearing (Form 2): Issued by the Rental Office to inform both parties of the hearing date and time.
  View Form 2 – Notice of Hearing (Nunavut Rental Office)
• Decision (Form 3): A written summary of the Rental Officer’s decision following the hearing.
  View Form 3 – Decision (Nunavut Rental Office)

Key Legislation and Timelines

The Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act sets out the procedures for tenant-landlord disputes. There are no fixed time limits for the Rental Officer to make a decision, but most standard cases are resolved in two to four weeks after your hearing date. It’s always a good idea to check with the Rental Office for current timelines, especially for urgent matters.

For a broader look at tenant protections in the territory, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut.

How to Get a Decision—Step by Step

Here’s a basic outline of the steps tenants in Nunavut take to seek a Rental Office decision:

• Gather evidence—such as communications with your landlord, photos, and receipts.
• Fill out Form 1 – Application, describing your problem and the outcome you want.
• Submit your form to the Nunavut Rental Office in person, by mail, or electronically.
• Wait for a Notice of Hearing (Form 2)—note the date and prepare for your hearing.
• Attend your hearing and present your case.
• Watch for a written decision (Form 3), usually within 2–4 weeks.

If you need to find a new place during a dispute or want to explore housing options, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long will it take to get a decision from the Nunavut Rental Office?
   Most cases receive a written decision 2–4 weeks after the hearing, but it can vary.
2. Can tenants speed up the hearing if it’s an emergency?
   Yes, urgent repairs and health or safety threats can be prioritized by the Rental Office. Let them know your issue is urgent when you file.
3. What if I disagree with the Rental Officer’s decision?
   If you believe there was an error, you can appeal to the Nunavut Court of Justice. It’s best to consult a legal advocate first.
4. Are there fees to file a tenant application?
   There is no fee for tenants to file an application or complaint with the Nunavut Rental Office as of 2024.
5. Where do I find more information about my rights as a Nunavut tenant?
   The Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut page offers a broad overview.

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

• Tenant-landlord disputes in Nunavut are handled through the Rental Office under the Residential Tenancies Act.
• Decisions are usually made within 2–4 weeks after a hearing.
• Keep records, use official forms, and reach out for help if your situation is urgent or complicated.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nunavut Rental Office – File applications and access tenant resources
• Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act – Full legislation text
• For legal support, contact the Legal Services Board of Nunavut at https://nulas.ca or call 1-866-606-9400
• See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut for plain language rights and FAQ

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1. Nunavut Rental Office: https://www.gov.nu.ca/justice/information/rental-office
2. Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act (Current version, June 2024)
3. Official Forms: Nunavut Rental Office Forms

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