Can my landlord require me to remove snow in Nunavut?

Only if your lease agreement specifically says so. Otherwise, snow removal is usually the landlord's responsibility.

What if my landlord doesn’t clear the snow and it’s dangerous?

Notify your landlord in writing, document the problem, and apply to the Nunavut Rental Office using Form 1 if not resolved.

Are tenants responsible for lawn care or yard work?

This is only required if your lease agreement clearly states it. Otherwise, the landlord is responsible.

Who handles snow removal in apartment buildings?

In apartments, snow removal is typically managed by the landlord or property manager.

Nunavut Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities for Snow Removal and Lawn Care

Moving In / Out Nunavut published: June 13, 2025

When you rent a home in Nunavut, especially in communities where extreme weather is part of everyday life, understanding who is responsible for tasks like clearing snow or maintaining outdoor areas is crucial. These issues often impact health, safety, and access to your home. In Nunavut, the rules about snow removal and lawn care can sometimes be less clear than in southern provinces, making it vital for tenants to know their rights and obligations from the start.

General Rules for Snow Removal and Lawn Care in Nunavut Rentals

Nunavut’s rental relationships are governed by the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act^[1]. This legislation outlines basic rights and responsibilities for both landlords and tenants, but it does not explicitly assign snow removal or lawn maintenance duties. Instead, these details are usually set out in your lease agreement.

If your lease is silent: Typically, the landlord is required to keep the rental in good condition, including safety and access to the building.
If your lease includes outdoor maintenance: You may be responsible for snow removal from walkways or modest yard upkeep, but only if clearly stated in your signed agreement.

In many cases, especially in apartment-style housing, landlords (or their management companies) will arrange for regular snow shoveling and basic yard care. In single-family rentals or duplexes, it’s more common to see tenants listed as responsible for snow clearing.

Legal Responsibilities According to Nunavut’s Laws

Section 48 of the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act makes landlords responsible for ensuring that the property meets safety, health, and municipal bylaw requirements. This means safe passage to and from the home—like a clear driveway or steps—often falls on the landlord, unless you have agreed in writing to handle it yourself.

Local bylaws in some Nunavut communities may require property owners to remove snow and ice from adjacent sidewalks. However, your obligation as a tenant comes only if your lease says so, or with mutual agreement. For clarity, check both your lease and your community’s bylaws.

Examples and Key Considerations for Tenants

Check your rental agreement for any section on outdoor maintenance.
If you are unsure or your agreement is vague, ask your landlord for clarification in writing.
Safe access is essential in Nunavut’s climate. If snow or ice build-up is preventing access, contact your landlord promptly.

Remember, the landlord cannot assign duties for major repairs or safety hazards (like structural snow load removal from roofs) to you unless this is permitted under Nunavut law and agreed in your contract.

What Tenants Should Do When Moving In

Before you move into your Nunavut rental home, always review your lease for outdoor maintenance terms. Make sure you and your landlord are clear on responsibilities—preferably in writing—and keep a copy for your records. For additional tips, consider checking out Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home so you start off on the right foot.

Tip: If you are asked to handle snow or lawn duties and feel it’s unreasonable (for example, if you have mobility issues or the tasks are unsafe), discuss alternative arrangements or request the responsibilities be shared or reassigned.

Health and Safety Considerations

Uncleared snow or poorly maintained yards can cause slips, falls, and limit the emergency access to your unit. In such cases, you may wish to review Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for advice on addressing unsafe conditions with your landlord.

Your landlord must respond to health and safety concerns promptly. If issues remain unresolved, you may contact the Nunavut Rental Office, which administers tenant-landlord disputes and enforces rental legislation.

Filing a Complaint or Seeking Mediation

If there is a dispute regarding who is responsible for snow removal or yard care, and discussions with your landlord do not resolve it, you may file an application with the Nunavut Rental Office. The typical form is the "Application to the Rental Office" (Form 1), which is used for most tenant-landlord disputes. You can access Form 1 here (official PDF).

Form Name: Application to the Rental Office (Form 1)
When to Use: Use this if your landlord fails to address unsafe snow or yard maintenance issues, or if there’s disagreement over responsibilities not resolved by the lease.
How To File: Complete the form, stating your concern clearly, and submit it to the Nunavut Rental Office. Details for contact and submission are included on the form.

What to Know Before Moving In or Signing Your Lease

As a tenant, it is wise to:

Ask your landlord directly who does snow removal and yard upkeep each season.
Get any agreements in writing, including frequency and exact areas covered (walkway, steps, driveway, etc.).
Refer to the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut page for more on your legal protections.

For those searching for housing, you can Browse apartments for rent in Canada to compare property features and responsibilities before making a move.

FAQs: Snow Removal & Lawn Care in Nunavut Rentals

Can my landlord require me to remove snow in Nunavut?
Only if your lease explicitly says so. Otherwise, the landlord is usually responsible for keeping entrances and sidewalks safe and accessible.
What if my landlord doesn’t clear the snow and it’s dangerous?
Document the issue, notify your landlord in writing, and if necessary, submit Form 1 to the Rental Office for resolution.
Are tenants responsible for lawn care or yard work?
Only when stated in your lease. In many Nunavut homes, minimal yard care is expected due to the climate, but always confirm in your agreement.
Does the law require regular gardening or mowing in Nunavut?
Not specifically. Outdoor maintenance responsibilities are set mostly by lease terms and local bylaw requirements.
Who handles snow removal in large apartment buildings?
Typically, landlords or property managers arrange snow removal in apartment complexes, but confirm with your landlord when you move in.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

Outdoor maintenance rules—like snow removal—are usually set by your lease, so always review your agreement.
Nunavut law holds landlords responsible for safety unless agreed otherwise, but communication and written records protect both sides.
If disputes arise, contact the Nunavut Rental Office to help resolve issues through formal application.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Nunavut Rental Office: Handles landlord-tenant disputes and applications.
Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act (full text)
Government of Nunavut Residential Tenancies Information
Visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut for more local information.