Living in Nunavut can mean unique housing challenges; when a repair threatens safety or basic habitability, tenants should act promptly. This guide explains how renters can identify urgent repairs, notify their landlord in writing, preserve clear documentation, and use territorial complaint or application processes if repairs are not completed. It covers when to call emergency services, what evidence to collect, how to set reasonable deadlines, and which official territorial offices and forms to check for filing a repair request or order. The guidance uses plain language so tenants can protect health and safety, reduce delays, and understand next steps if a landlord does not respond.
What counts as an urgent repair
Urgent repairs are problems that threaten health, safety, or the basic ability to live in the unit. Common examples include loss of heat in winter, major plumbing leaks, exposed wiring or gas smells, and serious mould caused by building failures.
- Loss of heat or hot water that makes the rental unsafe in cold weather
- Significant plumbing leaks, flooding, or sewage back-up
- Gas leaks, exposed electrical wiring, or other fire hazards
- Structural failure that risks collapse or serious injury
Step 1 — Check the territory rules and forms
Nunavut tenancy law and official repair procedures explain tenant and landlord responsibilities; check the territorial tenancy legislation and forms before filing a complaint or application[1]. Official forms often include an application to request an order for repairs or a complaint form for the territorial tenancy office; details and current form names are available from the territorial housing or tenancy pages listed below[2].
Step 2 — Tell your landlord in writing
Always notify the landlord or property manager in writing (email or letter) and describe the problem, date first noticed, and what you want fixed. Be clear about urgency and propose a reasonable deadline for action.
- State the problem, when it started, and ask for repairs within a specific number of days
- Keep a copy of the message and any landlord response
Step 3 — Document and preserve evidence
Good evidence speeds resolution. Take dated photos and videos, save receipts for emergency fixes you pay for, and keep a repair log with times and names of people you spoke to. If health is affected, keep medical notes.
- Photograph or video the damage with timestamps or file dates
- Save written communications, receipts, and notes of phone calls
Step 4 — When the landlord does not act
If the landlord does not respond or refuses to fix an urgent problem, you can apply to the territorial tenancy office or tribunal for an order. The application typically asks for your evidence, copies of written requests, and a clear statement of the remedy you want. In emergencies, the tribunal may order repairs or allow you to arrange repairs and seek reimbursement; check the exact remedies available under Nunavut rules before paying for work yourself[3].
Useful tips for quick action
- Start with a clear written request so there is a paper trail
- If the situation is immediately dangerous, call 911 or local emergency services first
- For minor routine repairs, discuss scheduling options to reduce conflict
Internal and online resources
For more background on health and building safety, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting and for urgent repair procedures see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities. To browse available rentals or review neighbourhood options while you sort repairs consider: Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
FAQ
- How fast must my landlord fix an urgent repair?
- Landlords must address urgent repairs immediately or within the short time set by territorial rules; if they do not, tenants can apply to the territorial tenancy office for an order.
- Can I hire someone and deduct the cost from rent?
- Rules vary by territory; some allow tenants to arrange emergency repairs and claim reimbursement, but you should confirm the exact process and approvals with the territorial office before deducting rent.
- What if mold or long-term damage is ignored?
- Document the problem, notify the landlord in writing, and apply to the territorial tenancy office if the landlord fails to act; consider public health advice if the mould affects health.
How-To
- Assess the urgency and safety risk in the unit.
- Inform your landlord in writing and request repairs with a clear deadline.
- Document damage with photos, videos and dated notes.
- If landlord does not act, file an application with the territorial tenancy office and include your evidence.
- For immediate dangers, call emergency services or public health.
Help and Support / Resources
- Contact Government of Nunavut - Housing
- Government of Nunavut official site
- Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC)
