Living in Nunavut means tenants need to understand who must make repairs, what counts as livable conditions, and how to use lease repair clauses to protect their rights. This guide explains tenant and landlord responsibilities for maintenance and habitability in Nunavut, including how to report issues, what to do in emergencies, and when to involve the territorys enforcement or dispute channels. Practical steps, examples of common repairs (heating, plumbing, mold), and how to document problems are included so renters can act confidently. Use this information to request fixes, follow formal notice procedures, and preserve evidence if you later need to make an application to a tribunal or seek legal help.
Who is responsible for repairs in Nunavut?
In Nunavut the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining a rental unit in a state of repair that meets basic habitability standards, including functioning heat, safe plumbing, and water. Tenants must keep the unit reasonably clean and avoid damage beyond normal wear and tear. If your lease has a repair clause that shifts responsibility, it cannot remove the landlord's obligation to meet minimum health and safety standards under territory law.[1]
Common habitability issues
- Heating failures or lack of heat
- Frozen or leaking plumbing and water supply problems
- Mold, dampness, or ventilation failures
- Electrical hazards or lack of hot water
- Pest infestations requiring professional treatment
How to request repairs
Start by notifying your landlord in writing describing the problem, the date you discovered it, and the repairs you request. Keep a copy of that notice and any replies. If you need a template or want to learn about health and safety concerns that affect repair priority, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
Emergency repairs
For emergencies that threaten health or safety no heat, severe water leaks, gas smells, or a fire risk take immediate steps to protect people and property, then notify the landlord right away. If the landlord does not respond promptly, you may be able to arrange emergency repairs and seek reimbursement or a rent reduction; follow the territory's rules on emergency measures and keep receipts and photos as evidence.[2]
When a lease attempts to shift repair responsibility
Some leases include repair clauses that ask tenants to accept responsibility for certain repairs. These clauses are limited they cannot override statutory habitability obligations. If a clause is unclear, ask the landlord to clarify in writing and keep that exchange. If the dispute continues, you can seek help from the territory's dispute resolution body.[3]
Practical examples
- If a pipe bursts and floods the unit, the landlord must arrange repairs and cleanup promptly.
- If a tenant causes accidental damage, the tenant may be asked to pay for the repair within reason.
Documenting problems and pursuing a remedy
Always record dates, keep photos or video, save receipts for temporary fixes, and maintain copies of all written communications. This evidence is crucial if you need to apply to a tribunal or negotiate a rent adjustment. For emergency guidance and detailed steps about rights around urgent repairs see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities. Find rental homes across Canada on Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
FAQ
- Who pays for routine maintenance?
- The landlord usually pays for routine maintenance required to keep the unit habitable; tenants are responsible for minor upkeep and accidental damage.
- Can my lease force me to pay for major repairs?
- No. A lease cannot remove the landlords legal duty to maintain habitability under territory law.
- What counts as an emergency repair?
- Emergency repairs are problems that pose a health or safety risk, such as no heat, major flooding, or gas leaks.
How-To
- Write a clear repair request and date it.
- Take photos or video and keep receipts for any temporary measures.
- If it is an emergency, call emergency services and the landlord immediately.
- If the landlord does not respond, apply to the territorial dispute body or seek legal advice.
Key Takeaways
- Landlords must keep units in a basic habitable condition.
- Always send written repair requests and keep copies and evidence.
- In emergencies act first to protect people, then document and notify.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies information Government of Nunavut
- Nunavut Housing Corporation tenant supports and contact
- Government of Nunavut official services and justice contacts
