Who is responsible for repairs in shared rentals?
In Nunavut, landlords are generally responsible for keeping rental units in a state of repair that meets basic health and safety standards. Tenants are responsible for damage they or their guests cause by negligence or misuse. In shared housing this means:
- Landlord must repair major systems such as heating, plumbing, and structural defects.
- Tenants normally handle small day-to-day tasks agreed to in the lease, like changing light bulbs or unclogging a sink if caused by misuse.
- Roommates should document who used shared appliances and keep a written agreement about splitting minor repair costs.
How to report a repair: step-by-step
Follow a clear process so you preserve evidence and give the landlord a fair chance to fix the problem.
- Notify the landlord in writing as soon as you notice the issue; include date, description, and photos.
- Follow up any phone call with an email or text summarizing the conversation and the date you called.
- If the landlord does not respond within a reasonable time, use the formal complaint or application process for your territory.
Routine vs emergency repairs
Some problems need immediate attention (no heat in winter, major water leaks, gas smell) and others are routine (minor dripping taps, small appliance faults). For emergencies call your landlord immediately and document the situation. If the landlord does not act quickly, seek emergency services if there is immediate danger and keep records of costs if you must arrange an urgent repair yourself.
Splitting costs between roommates
When a repair is clearly the landlords responsibility, the landlord should pay. If roommates agree to split minor repairs, put that agreement in writing covering who pays what and how to reimburse. Keep receipts and records of payments in case of later disputes. For guidance on typical repair responsibilities, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.
When to involve the tribunal or court
If a landlord refuses to make necessary repairs, tenants can start a formal process to seek an order for repairs or compensation. In Nunavut, dispute resolution may involve contacting the territorial justice resources and, where required, filing applications with the appropriate court or tribunal. For a quick overview of rights specific to this territory, review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut[1].
FAQ
- Who pays for a broken washer in a shared laundry?
- The landlord is usually responsible if the washer is provided as part of the rental and breaks due to normal wear. Roommates may share costs only if the lease or a written roommate agreement says so.
- Can a tenant withhold rent if repairs are not done?
- Withholding rent is risky and often illegal; follow the formal dispute process or seek legal advice before withholding rent or making repairs and deducting costs.
- What counts as an emergency repair?
- Emergencies include lack of heat in freezing weather, major water leaks, or gas smells; these require immediate action and documentation.
How-To
- Write a clear repair request to your landlord with photos, date, and a short description.
- Call or message the landlord to confirm they received the request and note the time and person you spoke with.
- Wait a reasonable amount of time for non-emergencies; in emergencies, act immediately and document all actions.
- If the landlord does not respond, gather your records and consider filing a formal application with territorial justice services or the court.
