How much can a landlord ask for a security deposit in Nunavut?

The maximum security deposit a landlord can request in Nunavut is one month’s rent.

How much notice do I need to give before moving out?

You must provide at least one full month’s written notice before moving out, unless otherwise stated in your lease.

What if my landlord doesn’t return my deposit?

If your deposit is not returned within 10 days of moving out and fulfilling your obligations, file an Application for Return of Security Deposit with the Rental Office.

Does my landlord need to do an inspection before I move out?

Final inspections are not legally required but are highly recommended. Completing one protects both tenant and landlord from future disputes.

What happens if my landlord doesn’t make needed repairs?

If repairs are not made after reporting them, escalate the issue to the Nunavut Rental Office and consider contacting local health authorities for safety-related problems.

Nunavut Tenant Rights for Moving In and Moving Out

Moving In / Out Nunavut published July 01, 2025

Moving into or out of a rental home in Nunavut comes with important rights and responsibilities. Whether you're starting a new lease or preparing to leave, understanding Nunavut-specific laws protects you from common mistakes and issues with your landlord. This guide covers what tenants need to know to ensure a smooth transition in and out of a rental unit, from deposits and inspections to notice procedures and getting your deposit back.

Understanding Your Rights When Moving In

Nunavut tenants are protected under the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act.^[1] This legislation outlines landlord and tenant obligations regarding keys, possession, cleanliness, and repairs at the beginning of a tenancy.

Deposits, Lease Agreements, and Move-In Inspections

Rental Deposits: Landlords can request a security deposit, but it cannot exceed one month's rent.
Written Lease: It's advisable to have a written agreement, but oral leases are also legal if they follow Nunavut law.
Move-In Inspection: A joint inspection report is recommended to record the condition of the unit at move-in.

Be sure to request a receipt for your deposit and fully understand the terms of your rental agreement. For an in-depth look at rental deposits, visit Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Getting Ready: Tips for New Tenants

Before moving in, check that the property is safe, clean, and that basic services (water, heat, power) work properly. Take clear photos of the property and keep copies of correspondence with your landlord.

Tip: Carefully review your lease and document the unit’s condition on day one—this helps protect your deposit at move-out.

Essential Official Forms When Moving In

Standard Lease (Nunavut): While Nunavut does not have a mandatory form lease, using a clear written agreement is best practice. Download a sample agreement and guidance from the Nunavut Rental Office.
Condition Inspection Report: Not required by law, but strongly advised. Both landlord and tenant should fill out, sign, and keep a copy. Find templates on the official forms page of the Nunavut Rental Office.

Your Responsibilities and Rights When Moving Out

Moving out of your rental in Nunavut involves following the proper notice steps, allowing inspections, and returning the unit in good condition. Adhering to these steps helps ensure you get your deposit back.

Giving Notice: Tenants on a monthly lease must give one month’s written notice before the end of a tenancy. Notice must be delivered according to the lease and Nunavut’s tenancy laws.
Move-Out Inspection: While not mandatory, a final inspection—ideally with your landlord present—is highly recommended to avoid disputes over damages.
Deposit Return: Security deposits must be returned within 10 days, unless there is damage beyond normal wear and tear or unpaid rent.

For tips on a smooth moving-out process, see Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

Official Forms for Moving Out

Notice to Terminate a Tenancy (Tenant’s Notice): Use the official form found at the Nunavut Rental Office website to provide your landlord with notice. Submit it at least one month before your intended leave date. For example, if your lease renews on July 1, give notice by June 1.
Application for Return of Security Deposit: If your deposit is not returned on time, file an application with the Rental Office. The form and instructions are available here.

Health and Safety Concerns

Report any urgent repairs, pests, or health issues to your landlord in writing right away. If concerns aren’t addressed, you can escalate to the Rental Office and, if necessary, public health authorities. Find practical advice in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Tenancy Tribunal and Legal Help

Nunavut’s Rental Office is the official tribunal for resolving landlord-tenant disputes, handling applications related to security deposits, eviction, repairs, and other issues. Check their website for rules, forms, and contact information.

For more details on your rights in the territory, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut.

Ready to look for your next home? Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings and find options across Nunavut and Canada.

FAQ: Moving In and Out in Nunavut Rentals

How much can a landlord ask for a security deposit in Nunavut?
In Nunavut, the maximum security deposit is one month’s rent. Any amount above that is not allowed.
How much notice do I need to give before moving out?
You must give at least one full month’s written notice before you plan to move out, unless your lease says otherwise.
What if my landlord doesn’t return my deposit?
If you have met all your obligations and do not get your deposit back within 10 days, you can file an application with the Rental Office to have the deposit returned.
Does my landlord need to do an inspection before I move out?
Final inspections are not required by law but are highly recommended. You and your landlord should check the property together and sign off on its condition to help prevent disputes.
What happens if my landlord doesn’t make needed repairs?
If urgent repairs or safety issues are ignored, report them to the Rental Office. You may also contact Nunavut's health authorities if the issue affects your health or safety.

How To: Key Tenant Procedures in Nunavut

How to give notice to end your tenancy: Download the Notice to Terminate a Tenancy form from the Rental Office, fill it out with your details and intended move-out date, and deliver it as the law requires (in writing at least one month in advance).
How to get your security deposit back: Leave the unit clean, provide your forwarding address, and ask for your deposit in writing. If the landlord does not return it, fill out the Application for Return of Security Deposit and submit it to the Rental Office.
How to document the condition of your rental: Complete a move-in and move-out inspection report (even if optional) with written notes and photos, and keep copies for your records.

Key Takeaways

Understand Nunavut tenancy law for move-in and move-out requirements to avoid disputes.
Always provide proper written notice and keep documentation for deposits and inspections.
The Rental Office is your main resource and tribunal for tenancy help in Nunavut.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Nunavut Rental Office – official board for tenancy laws and dispute resolution
Rental Office Forms and Applications – download notices, applications, and sample lease agreements
For legal aid and information, contact your local Nunavut Legal Aid office or community legal clinics

[1] Read the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act and regulations
All forms and process information: Nunavut Rental Office: Forms & Applications
Tribunal/contact info: Nunavut Rental Office (official site)