Is a short-term rental covered under Nunavut’s tenancy laws?

No, short-term rentals (under 30 days) are not covered by the Residential Tenancies Act in Nunavut. Only long-term leases are covered.

Do I have to pay a deposit for both short- and long-term rentals?

Deposits may be charged for both, but only deposits for long-term tenancies are regulated under Nunavut’s Residential Tenancies Act.

How do I end a long-term tenancy in Nunavut?

You need to provide proper written notice using the official forms provided by the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office to legally end your tenancy.

Who helps resolve disputes with short-term rentals in Nunavut?

Disputes in short-term rentals are typically handled through the booking platform or small claims court, not the Residential Tenancies Office.

Can a landlord evict me from a short-term rental without notice?

Short-term rentals are not subject to Nunavut eviction laws, so check the terms of your rental agreement or platform carefully.

Short-Term Rentals vs Long-Term Tenancies in Nunavut: Key Differences

Special Tenancy Situations Nunavut published: June 14, 2025

Renting in Nunavut presents unique considerations—especially when comparing short-term rentals to long-term tenancies. Understanding the distinctions can help you make informed choices, whether you are planning a few months' stay or looking for lasting housing in the territory. This guide explains the main legal and practical differences, highlights your rights as a tenant, and points you to key resources and legislation in Nunavut.

What Defines Short-Term Rentals and Long-Term Tenancies?

The difference between these two types of arrangements mostly comes down to the length of the rental and whether tenant protections apply.

Short-term rentals are usually accommodations rented for under 30 days—think hotel rooms, lodges, or listings on platforms such as Airbnb.
Long-term tenancies refer to rental agreements for a fixed period (often 12 months) or month-to-month arrangements between a tenant and a landlord for a private residential property.

Short-term arrangements are generally not covered by Nunavut’s residential tenancy laws, while long-term rental agreements are.

Legal Protections: Which Laws Apply in Nunavut?

For long-term rentals in Nunavut, the main law is the Residential Tenancies Act (Nunavut)¹. This legislation sets rules around leases, rent increases, repairs, evictions, and deposits. Short-term rentals, by contrast, are not protected by this Act and work instead under general contract law or service agreements.

The Residential Tenancies Office of Nunavut is the official body that handles tenancy disputes, applications, and information in the territory.

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities in Long-Term Tenancies

The right to a safe, habitable, and quiet home
The right to privacy and reasonable notice before a landlord enters
Protection from unlawful eviction or unreasonable rent increases
The responsibility to pay rent on time and keep the property in good condition

For a comprehensive guide, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut.

Short-Term Rentals: What Should Tenants Know?

If you rent a room or unit for just a few days or weeks, you may have fewer rights than a long-term tenant. You are generally bound only by the agreement with the host or through an online platform. Standard rules about deposits, repairs, and notice may not apply. This makes it even more important to read your contract or booking agreement carefully!

Rental Deposits and Agreements

In long-term tenancies, landlords often require a security deposit, usually equal to one month’s rent. This is regulated under the Residential Tenancies Act. Short-term rentals may charge deposits as well (often labeled as a damage or incidental fee), but these are not subject to the same restrictions.

Always ask for a receipt when you pay any kind of rental deposit—regardless of the type of rental.

To learn more about your rights to deposits in a long-term tenancy, visit Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Lease Terms, Repairs, and Ending a Tenancy

Most long-term rental agreements in Nunavut must be in writing. They state how long the rental lasts and outline the responsibilities of tenant and landlord, such as who handles what repairs. Ending a long-term tenancy requires giving proper written notice, using official forms provided by the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office.

If you are renting for a short period, confirm in advance how and when you can end the stay and if you get any refund if you leave early.

Applying for Help or Resolving Disputes

Tenants in long-term arrangements can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office to resolve problems (like non-return of a deposit or repairs not done). Use the official Application Form for Tenant (Form 1):

When to use: If you believe your landlord is not following the Residential Tenancies Act (for example, not returning your deposit or entering your unit without notice)
How to use: Complete and submit the Form 1 - Application by Tenant to the Residential Tenancies Office. Attach any evidence, such as receipts or communications.
Official source: Nunavut Residential Tenancies Forms

Short-term renters who have disputes must typically rely on the booked platform’s resolution process or small claims court.

Finding Reliable Rentals in Nunavut

When seeking long-term tenancies, use reputable rental websites, local panels, or landlord associations. For a wide selection, View available rentals coast to coast and find the best fit for your needs.

Differences at a Glance: Short-Term vs Long-Term

Length: Short-term is usually under 30 days; long-term is typically month-to-month or yearly.
Legal Protection: Long-term tenancies are covered by Nunavut law; short-term stays are not.
Dispute Resolution: Long-term tenants can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office; short-term renters usually use platform or civil court processes.
Deposits and Agreements: Rules for deposits, repairs, and evictions apply only to long-term arrangements.

Understanding these key differences ensures you know which protections you have and what to expect from your rental situation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is a short-term rental covered under Nunavut’s tenancy laws?
Generally no. Short-term rentals (under 30 days) are not protected by the Residential Tenancies Act. Protections apply to long-term leases.
Do I have to pay a deposit for both short- and long-term rentals?
You might pay a deposit for both, but only deposits for long-term tenancies are regulated under Nunavut law.
How do I end a long-term tenancy?
You must provide written notice using the required forms. If you leave a short-term rental early, your options are set by whatever agreement you signed.
Who handles disputes from short-term rentals?
Issues usually go through the booking platform or small claims court, not through the Residential Tenancies Office.
Can a landlord evict me from a short-term rental without notice?
Short-term arrangements aren’t subject to Nunavut eviction laws, so always check your agreement and discuss expectations before booking.

Key Takeaways

Long-term tenancies in Nunavut are protected by law; short-term rentals are not.
Always get agreements, terms, and deposits in writing—regardless of rental type.
Use official resources and the Residential Tenancies Office for help with long-term tenancy concerns.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Residential Tenancies Office of Nunavut — for applications, forms, and dispute resolution
Residential Tenancies Act (Nunavut) — official text of the legislation
Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut — summary of tenant and landlord responsibilities
Nunavut Department of Family Services – Rental Support