Nunavut Tenant Rights: Top FAQs & Key Responsibilities

Renting a home in Nunavut comes with rights and responsibilities that protect both tenants and landlords. Knowing the basics of Nunavut's rental laws helps you avoid misunderstandings, respond to issues, and feel secure in your rental. This page answers commonly asked questions about tenant rights and responsibilities, shares helpful resources, and explains where to get support in Nunavut.

Understanding Your Tenant Rights and Responsibilities in Nunavut

Tenants in Nunavut are protected by the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act^[1]. This law sets out what you can expect from your landlord—and what is expected of you. Here’s a quick overview:

• Right to a safe and healthy home: Landlords must keep rental units in good repair and comply with local health standards.
• Right to privacy: Landlords need to give proper notice before entering your unit, except in emergencies.
• Responsibility to pay rent on time: You must pay your rent in full and on schedule as outlined in your rental agreement.
• Responsibility to avoid property damage: Tenants must keep their home clean and report necessary repairs.
• Right to information: You are entitled to a written tenancy agreement and receipts for rent or deposits.

For a more detailed breakdown, you may want to review the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut resource page.

Rental Deposits

Landlords in Nunavut commonly request a security deposit (sometimes called a damage deposit) at the start of your tenancy. This deposit can’t exceed one month's rent and must be held in trust. It is refundable at the end of your tenancy, assuming no damage beyond normal wear and tear.

Learn more about what to expect regarding deposits at Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Health and Safety Obligations

Your landlord must ensure your home meets health and safety standards. If something in your unit poses a risk (like broken smoke detectors or mold), notify your landlord in writing as soon as possible. Tenants must also keep their unit clean and avoid unsafe actions.

For essential information, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Paying Rent and Handling Increases

Tenants must pay rent on the date specified in their lease. Nunavut law requires that rent increases only happen once every 12 months and with written notice. The landlord must use official forms and give at least 3 months’ notice for any rent increase. Always request a written receipt for your payments.

Requesting Repairs and Maintenance

If something breaks, like heating or plumbing, you should send a written request to your landlord. Landlords must perform necessary repairs to keep your home safe and livable. Tenants are responsible for general cleanliness and minor upkeep.

Evictions and Ending Your Lease

Landlords can only evict tenants for legal reasons, such as unpaid rent, causing damage, or repeated rule-breaking. Landlords must provide proper written notice using the correct form and respect the notice periods stated in the Act. If you disagree with an eviction notice, you can dispute it through the Rental Office.

Official Forms for Nunavut Tenants

• Notice to Vacate (Form 2): Tenants use this to give written notice they are ending their tenancy. You must give at least one rental period's notice (e.g., one month if you pay monthly). Access Notice to Vacate (Form 2).
• Application to Rental Officer (Form 7): If you need to dispute rent increases, eviction notices, or request repairs, submit this form to the Nunavut Rental Officer. Download Application to Rental Officer (Form 7).
• Rent Increase Notice (Form 1): Landlords use this to notify tenants of rent increases. Tenants should review for accuracy; you can dispute the notice if it does not follow the rules. View Rent Increase Notice (Form 1).

Forms are provided by the Nunavut Rental Office, the tribunal responsible for residential tenancies in Nunavut.

Additional Resources

Tenants can Browse apartments for rent in Canada and find support when searching for a new home or learning about their rights.

1. What can I do if my landlord refuses to make repairs?
   If your landlord won’t fix urgent problems affecting health or safety, document your requests (preferably in writing). If there is still no action, file an Application to Rental Officer (Form 7) to request an order for repairs. If the repair is urgent (like no heat in winter), let the Rental Officer know so your case is prioritized.
2. Can my landlord enter my rental unit without my permission?
   No. Except in emergencies, landlords must give at least 24 hours’ written notice stating the date, time, and reason for entry. Tenants have a right to reasonable privacy.
3. When should I get my security deposit back?
   Within 10 days after moving out, provided there is no damage beyond normal wear and tear and all rent is paid. If the landlord makes deductions, you must receive an itemized list in writing.
4. How can I challenge a rent increase that I think is unfair or illegal?
   File an Application to Rental Officer (Form 7) to dispute the increase. Make sure to act within 15 days after receiving the Notice of Rent Increase.
5. Am I responsible for routine cleaning and light maintenance?
   Yes. Tenants must keep their home reasonably clean and do small maintenance tasks like changing light bulbs or batteries in smoke detectors.

1. How do I end my tenancy properly in Nunavut?
   Give your landlord written notice using Notice to Vacate (Form 2), with at least one full rental period of notice. Move all belongings and leave the place clean.
2. How can I dispute an eviction notice?
   Complete Application to Rental Officer (Form 7) as soon as possible and submit it to the Nunavut Rental Office. Attach all relevant documents.
3. What steps should I take if I want repairs done?
   First, notify your landlord in writing. Keep copies. If there’s no response, file Form 7 with the Rental Officer and include your evidence.

Key Takeaways for Nunavut Tenants

• Tenants in Nunavut have the right to a healthy, safe, and private home, and must follow the guidelines in their lease and the law.
• Always use official forms when giving notice, disputing rent increases, or applying for repairs, and keep records of your communications.
• For further information or action, contact the Nunavut Rental Office or review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nunavut Rental Office – Information, forms, and dispute resolution
• Legal Aid Nunavut: For legal information or help with housing matters, call 1-866-679-8397
• Community Justice Centres: Often provide tenant advocacy and education services—find your local office through the Department of Justice Nunavut
• For more details on rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut

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1. Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act – Official Information
2. Nunavut Rental Office – Forms & Processes
3. Department of Justice Nunavut – Landlord and Tenant Info

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