Sealing Eviction Records in Nunavut: Tenant Rights Guide
If you’ve been evicted in Nunavut, you may be worried about your eviction record and what it means for your future as a tenant. Many tenants want to know if it is possible to seal or erase an eviction record in Nunavut, especially when looking for a new place to live. This guide walks you through the rules, effects, and possible solutions for tenants with past evictions on record in Nunavut.
What Is an Eviction Record, and Who Can See It?
An eviction record generally refers to information held by the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office (RTO)—the official body handling rental disputes in the territory. This record may include orders, decisions, or unresolved issues related to a tenant's previous rental agreements. Landlords, as well as some screening companies, can access public tribunal outcomes, but private credit bureaus may only hold financial information, not tribunal decisions themselves.
Can Tenants in Nunavut Seal or Remove an Eviction Record?
Currently, Nunavut does not have a formal process for sealing, expunging, or erasing eviction records held by the Residential Tenancies Office. If a landlord applied to evict you, and the RTO issued a written decision, this generally becomes part of the public record. These decisions may be accessible by future landlords, particularly when you apply for new rentals or face tenancy screening.
While eviction records themselves cannot be sealed, you may be able to take other steps to improve your housing prospects and explain your circumstances. If you believe there has been a factual or legal error in your case, you may apply to the RTO for a review or reconsideration, but this is only possible within specific grounds and strict timelines as per the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act[1].
How Eviction Records Affect Your Future Rentals
An eviction on your record can make it more difficult to find a new home, as landlords may be concerned about renting to someone with a history of eviction. However, every case is different, and providing context, references, or proof of improved financial circumstances can sometimes help.
Remember, credit reports from agencies like Equifax or TransUnion usually only include outstanding debts (such as unpaid rent) sent to collections, not tribunal orders themselves. Tenants with strong rental references, a record of prompt payment since the eviction, or who can show the eviction was for reasons beyond their control may still be able to secure a rental.
Steps Tenants Can Take After an Eviction in Nunavut
If sealing your eviction record is not possible, there are still steps you can take to improve your housing outlook:
- Ask the RTO for a Copy: If you’re not sure what information is on record, request a copy of your file from the RTO. This can help clarify your situation when talking with potential landlords.
- Explain Your Situation: If applying for a new rental, consider providing a brief explanation (such as job loss, health issues, or emergency circumstances) and what steps you’ve taken to resolve any issues since.
- Request Character or Landlord References: Positive references from employers or previous landlords (after your eviction) can help reassure new landlords.
- Focus on Building a Positive Rental History: Each successful tenancy after an eviction helps demonstrate your reliability.
For more information on how to end your lease properly to avoid future disputes or recover your security deposit, visit the guides How to Properly End Your Rental Agreement as a Tenant and How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.
If you receive any legal notice or court document related to eviction, read them thoroughly, respond promptly, and consider seeking advice if you’re unsure what to do.
Relevant Forms and Tribunal Actions in Nunavut
If you believe there was an error or unfairness in your eviction outcome, tenants in Nunavut can sometimes:
- Apply for a review or reconsideration of a decision, if new evidence emerges
- Request written reasons for a decision from the RTO
Common forms used include:
- Residential Tenancy Application Form (no specific number): Used for initiating disputes, requests for review, and asking for remedies. Download from the Government of Nunavut. For example: If you believe your eviction was due to a factual error, submit this form to apply for a review.
Before starting any application, contact the Residential Tenancies Office for guidance and to confirm which form fits your case and timeline.
The main legislation governing tenant and landlord matters in Nunavut is the Residential Tenancies Act (Nunavut).
Know Your Rights: Additional Resources
Being informed is key to protecting yourself as a tenant after eviction. For a complete overview, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut.
Looking for a new place to call home after an eviction? Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Eviction Records in Nunavut
- Can Nunavut tenants seal or erase an eviction record?
Currently, there is no legal process to seal or remove an eviction record with the Nunavut RTO once a decision is made. - Will a Nunavut eviction appear on my credit report?
Only if unpaid debts (like overdue rent) are sent to a collection agency. Tribunal decisions themselves are usually not on credit reports. - Can I apply to the RTO to remove or amend my record?
You can request a review if you qualify, but cannot erase the record simply because you disagree with the decision. - How can I improve my chances of renting again after an eviction?
Collect strong references, maintain a good payment record, and be upfront with future landlords about your circumstances. - Is there a database of evicted tenants in Nunavut?
No official searchable database exists, but RTO decisions may be publicly accessible to landlords who request them as part of the screening process.
Summary: What Nunavut Tenants Should Know
- Eviction records in Nunavut cannot currently be sealed or erased by tenants.
- Future landlords may access tribunal decisions, but credit reports typically show only unpaid debts, not RTO records.
- Building a strong rental and reference history after an eviction matters for future applications.
Understanding the rules helps you take the right steps and move forward after an eviction.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office (RTO): Official information and forms; phone: 1-877-212-2238
- Legal Aid Nunavut: Free tenant legal advice (subject to eligibility)
- Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut: Full fact sheet
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