Repair Disputes in Nunavut Rentals: Solutions for Tenants

If you're renting in Nunavut and dealing with repair issues in your home, you're not alone. Repair disputes are among the most common sources of tension between tenants and landlords in the territory. Knowing your rights and how to resolve these issues under Nunavut law can protect your well-being and your home.

Understanding Repair Obligations in Nunavut Rentals

Both landlords and tenants in Nunavut have responsibilities when it comes to repairs and maintenance. The Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act requires landlords to keep rental units in good repair and meet health and safety standards at all times¹.

• Landlords must ensure the unit is safe, habitable, and meets local building, health, and safety codes.
• Tenants must keep their unit reasonably clean and not cause undue damage.

A good relationship starts with understanding everyone's rights and duties. See Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for more on this.

Common Repair Disputes Tenants Face

• Leaking pipes, plumbing problems, or water damage
• Broken heating or lack of adequate heat (especially serious in Nunavut's cold climate)
• Faulty electrical outlets, lights, or appliances supplied by the landlord
• Mold, structural hazards, or ventilation problems
• Pest infestations (e.g., mice or insects)

Many of these issues can make the home unsafe or uncomfortable. If not addressed promptly, they may even lead to disputes about rent or tenancy continuation. For health-related hazards, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

What to Do If You Need a Repair

When something breaks or needs attention, tenants should:

• Document the issue (photos, notes, dates)
• Promptly notify your landlord in writing (email, letter, or form if available)
• Give the landlord a reasonable amount of time to fix the problem, especially for urgent issues

Making a Formal Request

If your landlord does not respond to your initial request, send a written follow-up by registered mail. Keep copies of everything for your records.

Steps for Resolving Repair Disputes

If your repair issue isn’t fixed after your requests, take the following steps:

• Try to resolve the situation directly through respectful communication
• Contact the Office of the Rental Officer in Nunavut for advice or mediation. This office oversees residential tenancy matters and can provide guidance for landlords and tenants alike.
• If all else fails, tenants can apply to the Nunavut Rental Office (Rental Officer) for an order requiring the landlord to complete repairs.

The Application to the Rental Officer (Form 1) is available from the Government of Nunavut website. Use this form to make a formal complaint regarding unresolved repair or maintenance issues. For example, if heat is not restored after repeated requests, you can file Form 1 and request an urgent hearing. Download Form 1: Application to the Rental Officer.

What Happens Next?

The Rental Officer may schedule a hearing, review your application, and issue an order requiring the landlord to perform the repairs. The process is designed to be accessible, and no lawyer is required.

Preventing Repair Disputes When Moving In or Out

Doing a full inspection when moving in and out can help resolve disputes before they start. Both parties should note the unit’s condition in writing and take photos. See the Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants for a checklist and practical advice.

Helpful Resources and Support

You don’t have to deal with repair disputes alone. Support is available through tenant advocacy services and Nunavut’s Rental Office. Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings—whether you're moving in, out, or seeking a better rental experience: Canada's best rental listings platform.

To fully understand your rights and responsibilities as a tenant or landlord in Nunavut, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut.

1. Who handles tenant-landlord repair disputes in Nunavut?
   The Office of the Rental Officer (Nunavut Rental Office) is responsible for handling repair and maintenance disputes between tenants and landlords.
2. How fast must a landlord fix repairs for essential services (e.g., heat) in Nunavut?
   For urgent issues affecting health or safety, the landlord must complete repairs promptly. If not addressed, tenants can file an urgent application to the Rental Officer.
3. What if my landlord refuses to repair or ignores my request?
   If requests are ignored, tenants should escalate by filing an Application to the Rental Officer using Form 1 and supplying documentation of the issue and communications.
4. Is my landlord allowed to ask me to pay for repairs?
   Tenants are only responsible for repair costs if they or their guests cause damage. Normal wear and tear or essential repairs are the landlord's responsibility.
5. Should I keep a record of repair requests?
   Absolutely. Always keep written records (emails, letters) and photos to protect your rights if a dispute arises.

Summary:

• Document all repair problems and communications with your landlord
• If repairs are not completed, file a formal request to the Rental Officer using Form 1
• Know your rights under Nunavut’s Residential Tenancies Act and reach out for help when needed

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nunavut Rental Office (Rental Officer): official tenancy complaints & guidance
• Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act (full text)
• Legal Aid Nunavut: Call toll-free 1-866-606-9400 or visit your local Legal Aid office for support
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut—overview of legal rights and tenancy facts

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1. See Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act.
2. Rental Office contact and forms: Official Nunavut Rental Office.

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