Poorly Done Repairs in Nunavut: Tenant Rights and Solutions

If you’re a tenant in Nunavut and repairs in your rental unit have been done poorly, you’re not alone. Many renters face challenges like incomplete work, recurring problems, or repairs that create new issues altogether. Understanding your rights, options, and next steps is key to making sure your home stays safe and livable under Nunavut’s laws.

Understanding Your Rights: Repairs and Maintenance in Nunavut

Both landlords and tenants in Nunavut have specific rights and responsibilities when it comes to repairs. The key legislation is the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act^[1]. Landlords must ensure your unit is habitable, safe, and maintained in accordance with health and safety standards. If repairs are needed because something is broken or unsafe, the landlord is usually responsible for fixing them — and doing so properly.

• Landlords: Required to perform repairs promptly and competently.
• Tenants: Must report repair needs as soon as possible. Tenants should not attempt major repairs themselves without permission, except in some emergencies.

For a clear overview of responsibilities, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

What If Repairs Are Done Poorly?

Poorly done repairs can mean any work that fails to meet reasonable standards of quality, leaves hazards behind, or does not actually address the original problem.

• Recurring issues after a repair visit (leaks, electrical faults, etc.)
• Repairs that create new safety or health risks
• Contractors not completing the work or using improper materials

If you notice bad workmanship or continued problems, it’s important to take action quickly—not only for your comfort, but for your safety.

Common Examples

• Repair of a broken heater that still leaves the unit too cold
• Plumbing "fixes" that lead to leaks or mould
• Electrical repairs that cause frequent power outages or sparks

These are not just inconveniences; they can also lead to Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Action Steps: What Tenants Should Do If Repairs Are Not Done Properly

Here’s how you can address poorly completed repairs in your Nunavut rental home:

• Document: Take detailed photos, videos, or notes showing the issues and the poor repair work.
• Notify Your Landlord: Give written notice (email, letter, or text) explaining what is still wrong and what you expect to be fixed.
• Allow Time: Give the landlord a reasonable window (usually a few days for serious issues) to respond or fix the problem again.
• Keep Records: Save copies of all correspondence and responses.

If There’s No Action: Escalating the Complaint

If the landlord does not fix the problem, or makes additional poor repairs, you can escalate your complaint:

• Contact the Nunavut Rental Office (Residential Tenancies Office) to get help or officially file a dispute.
• If there is an immediate health or safety risk (like mold, unsafe wiring, or no heat), contact a public health or safety inspector through your local municipality.

For more strategies about addressing property issues, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Official Forms and How to Use Them in Nunavut

If talking to your landlord doesn’t resolve things, you can start a formal complaint process. The process typically includes these official forms:

• Tenant’s Application to the Residential Tenancy Officer (Form 5):
  • When to use: If you need to ask the Nunavut Rental Office for an order requiring your landlord to do proper repairs or compensate you.
  • How it works: Fill out and submit Form 5 (Tenant’s Application) with evidence, such as photos and copies of communications^[2].
  • Example: You reported a broken window that was “fixed” with cardboard. After polite reminders go unanswered, you fill out Form 5 and attach dated photos, asking the Rental Officer to order proper repairs.

The Nunavut Rental Office oversees complaints and orders under the Residential Tenancies Act. Contact their staff for help filling out forms or understanding your options.

Possible Outcomes

• The Rental Officer may order the landlord to fix the repair properly or authorize you to withhold rent until the repair is done.
• You may be allowed to arrange the repair yourself and deduct reasonable costs from rent—but only if the tribunal gives approval.
• Compensation may be awarded if you suffered damages because of poor repairs (e.g., higher energy bills due to faulty weatherproofing).

Summary: Acting quickly protects your safety, helps avoid larger problems, and shows good faith if you need to escalate your case.

Know Your Province: Tenant Rights and Resources in Nunavut

For a detailed look at your local rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut.

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1. Can my landlord enter to inspect repairs at any time?
   Landlords must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice to enter your unit, except in emergencies. They may enter only at reasonable times, for purposes such as making repairs or inspections that relate to your complaint.
2. What if poor repairs cause health or safety risks, like mold?
   Document the hazard and contact your landlord immediately. If they do not address a serious problem, you may contact a local health inspector or the Nunavut Rental Office for urgent orders.
3. Can I refuse to pay rent until the repairs are done properly?
   No, you cannot withhold rent unless specifically authorized by the Rental Officer through a formal order. Otherwise, missing rent could risk eviction.
4. What if my landlord doesn’t respond after I file a formal complaint?
   The Nunavut Rental Office will attempt to resolve the dispute. If needed, the Rental Officer can make an order or schedule a hearing. Respond promptly if you are contacted for more information.
5. How long does it usually take to resolve a repair dispute?
   Timelines vary, but simple cases may be resolved quickly if both parties communicate. Complex disputes or hearings may require a few weeks or more, so respond to all tribunal requests in a timely way.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Nunavut Tenants

• Always document and report poor repairs to your landlord in writing
• Use the Nunavut Rental Office complaint forms if the situation is unresolved
• You must not withhold rent unless ordered by the tribunal
• Take prompt action—good records will strengthen your case

Knowing your rights and processes ensures your rental home remains safe and comfortable.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nunavut Rental Office (Residential Tenancies Office): Main contact for rental disputes, forms, and advice
• Form 5 – Tenant’s Application to the Residential Tenancy Officer (PDF)
• Local community health or bylaw offices: For emergencies or unresolved hazards
• Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act
• For broad guidance on renter issues, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them

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1. Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act: View full text
2. Form 5 – Tenant’s Application: Download (PDF, Government of Nunavut)

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