Nunavut Eviction Process: Key Steps & Tenant Protections

If you're renting in Nunavut and facing eviction, knowing the process and your rights can help you navigate this difficult situation. Evictions in Nunavut are managed by official guidelines, offering protections to both tenants and landlords. Below, learn about typical timelines, steps, forms, and your options if you receive an eviction notice.

Understanding Evictions in Nunavut

Evictions are regulated under the Nunavut Rental Office and the territory's Residential Tenancies Act (Nunavut)^[1]. The process protects tenants from unlawful removal and outlines responsibilities for both parties.

Reasons for Eviction

Common legal grounds for eviction include:

• Failure to pay rent
• Violation of significant lease terms
• Causing serious damage to the property
• Illegal activities on the premises
• Requiring the property for landlord's own use

Each scenario requires landlords to follow strict notice and application procedures. Tenants have a right to respond and, in most cases, remain in the unit until a formal order is made.

Eviction Notice Types and Timelines

Understanding what kind of notice you receive is crucial. Here are the common notice types in Nunavut:

• 14-Day Notice: Used for non-payment of rent, major lease violations, or serious damage. Tenant usually has the right to fix the problem within this period.
• 30-Day Notice: May apply for other lease breaches or when the landlord requires the unit for personal use.

If you've received a notice, always review it promptly and check whether the grounds and timelines comply with the Act.

Official Forms for Evictions in Nunavut

The Nunavut Rental Office provides forms for every stage of the eviction process. The most relevant are:

• Notice to Terminate Tenancy (Form 1): Given to tenants as the first step in most evictions.
  Example: If you miss rent and your landlord starts an eviction, they must serve this notice. View official form
• Application for Order of Possession (Form 4): If you don’t leave or resolve the issue after the notice period, the landlord can apply for an official order to evict.
  Example: Your landlord uses this if you remain after a valid notice expires. View official form

You can respond to any Rental Office application using their prescribed reply forms. Make sure to submit your response promptly to preserve your rights and voice your side.

Nunavut Eviction Process Timeline: Step-by-Step

Here's what to expect when eviction proceedings begin–from notice through possible hearings:

• 1. Receive Official Notice: The landlord serves a Notice to Terminate Tenancy with the correct time specified.
• 2. Remedy the Issue or Respond: You may be able to pay overdue rent or fix the alleged lease breach within the notice period.
• 3. Landlord Applies for Possession: If you stay or dispute the reasons, the landlord files an Application for Order of Possession with the Rental Office.
• 4. Hearing Before the Rental Office: Both parties may have an opportunity to present their case; the Rental Officer will decide if an eviction order is justified.
• 5. Enforcement: With an eviction order, the landlord can request enforcement via the courts. Only a Rental Officer’s eviction order is legal—self-eviction is not permitted.

Timelines vary slightly but typically take several weeks from first notice to a formal order, depending on the case’s complexity and responsiveness of both parties.

Tenant Rights During the Eviction Process

• You can remain in your home until the Rental Office issues a decision, unless you choose to leave earlier.
• You have the right to attend a hearing and submit evidence or arguments.
• If you believe the eviction is unfair, you can appeal decisions to the Nunavut Court of Justice.

Staying informed of the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut ensures you know both your protections and obligations throughout this process.

What Happens to Your Deposit?

At the end of a tenancy, including eviction, the landlord may lawfully retain some or all of your rental deposit only if there are damages or unpaid rent. For more, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

If you're considering moving or searching for a new home, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme—it's a fast, reliable way to browse available listings anywhere in the country.

FAQ: Eviction Questions for Tenants in Nunavut

1. Do I have to leave immediately after receiving an eviction notice?
   No, you can usually remain in your home until the notice period ends and until a Rental Office order is issued. Only official orders are enforceable.
2. Can my landlord change the locks or evict me themselves?
   No, only Rental Office orders can be enforced. Landlords cannot change locks or forcibly remove tenants without a legal order.
3. What if I disagree with the eviction notice?
   You should file a response with the Rental Office, attend the hearing, and present your evidence or concerns.
4. What happens to my rental deposit if I’m evicted?
   The landlord can only keep part or all of your deposit for damages or unpaid rent. You may dispute deductions if you disagree.
5. Where can I find official eviction forms?
   All official eviction forms are available from the Nunavut Rental Office.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Nunavut Tenants

• Evictions must follow official notice periods and clear legal steps—never ignore a notice.
• You have full rights to attend Rental Office hearings and present your case.
• Always keep copies of forms, notices, and Rental Office decisions for your records.

In summary, knowing the Nunavut eviction timeline and your tenant rights ensures you are prepared for each stage and can make informed decisions about your housing situation.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nunavut Rental Office (Official Tribunal): Rental Office website – info, forms, and contacts
• Government of Nunavut, Department of Justice: Residential Tenancy Resources
• Legal Aid Nunavut: Offers advice and representation to eligible tenants, see Legal Services Board of Nunavut
• Official Laws and Legislation: Nunavut Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

---

1. Nunavut Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. Nunavut Rental Office – Eviction Resources
3. Government of Nunavut: Residential Tenancy Information

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