Snow and ice build-up creates real risks for renters and landlords in Nunavut: slips, blocked exits, frozen services and accessibility problems. This guide explains who is typically responsible for clearing sidewalks, stairs and entrances, how to document hazards, when to ask the landlord to act, and what steps tenants can take if removal is delayed. It focuses on tenant-friendly language so you can understand your rights, raise safety concerns, and use the right forms or local resources in Nunavut to resolve maintenance problems without escalating to tribunal hearings.
Who is usually responsible for snow and ice removal?
Responsibility depends on your lease, building type and municipal rules. In many Nunavut leases, the landlord must keep the property safe and habitable, which commonly includes clearing main walkways, building entrances and ensuring safe access to utilities. Tenants may be asked to clear immediate areas directly serving their unit, such as private stoops or assigned walkways, but any obligation must be clear in the written rental agreement.
Documenting the problem and notifying the landlord
When snow or ice creates a hazard, document it with date-stamped photos and a short written record of the condition and any related incidents. Send a clear written request to your landlord asking them to fix the hazard and keep a copy. If you send a formal notice, keep proof of delivery.
Practical steps tenants can take
- Shovel and salt only if your lease explicitly allows and you have safe materials; avoid damaging walkways or surfaces.
- Serve a written notice to the landlord requesting snow or ice removal and keep a copy for your records.
- Call or email building management to follow up after 24–48 hours if the hazard remains and document the response.
When the landlord does not act
If the landlord does not respond to reasonable written requests, tenants can file a complaint with the official territory office that handles residential tenancies or request an inspection if a municipal bylaw is being breached. Keep all records: photos, copies of notices, replies, and any costs you incur if you later seek compensation. Consider small claims court for recovery of reasonable expenses if safe removal was your only option and you gave proper notice.
Official forms and common examples
Below are the typical forms or written notices tenants use. Nunavut may have territory-specific documents available through its housing or legislation pages. Always check the official source before filing.
- Notice to Repair or Maintain: a written notice asking the landlord to fix a safety issue (example: frozen entrance blocking emergency exit). Use it to give the landlord a chance to remedy the hazard before seeking tribunal action.[1]
- Notice of Expense Recovery: a written record a tenant can use if they paid for reasonable snow removal after giving proper notice (example: hiring a local contractor for a blocked main walkway). Attach receipts and photos when submitting a claim.[1]
Safety considerations
Prioritize safety: icy surfaces, roof overhangs and heavy snow near exits are immediate hazards. Report concerns about heating, frozen pipes, or inaccessible emergency exits right away. If you or others face immediate danger, contact emergency services first, then document and report the condition to your landlord.
Dispute options and remedies
Available remedies often include orders requiring the landlord to clear hazards, compensation for reasonable expenses, or in serious ongoing cases, termination of the tenancy. The specific tribunal or office that handles residential tenancy disputes in Nunavut can provide guidance on forms, timelines and hearings.[2]
FAQ
- Who clears the sidewalk between the building and the street?
- Responsibility depends on your lease and municipal rules; many landlords clear common sidewalks but tenants may clear private steps if their lease says so.
- Can I hire someone and deduct the cost from my rent?
- Only if your rental agreement or territory rules allow it, or after you followed formal notice procedures and the tribunal authorizes deduction; keep all receipts and proof of notice.
- What if snow causes a safety incident?
- Seek medical help if needed, document the incident with photos and witnesses, notify your landlord immediately, and consider filing a report with the tenancy office or tribunal.
How-To
- Write a short Notice to Repair describing the hazard, include photos and a requested deadline.
- Send the notice by email and/or recorded delivery and save delivery receipts or screenshots.
- If the landlord does not act, collect quotes or receipts for reasonable removal costs and keep a detailed log of communications.
- File a complaint with the Nunavut tenancy office or tribunal if you cannot resolve the issue, and bring your documentation to the hearing.
Key Takeaways
- Read your lease to know who is responsible for snow and ice removal.
- Document hazards and keep all communications and receipts.
- Use written notices and official complaint routes before seeking compensation or tribunal remedies.
Help and Support / Resources
- Government of Nunavut Housing and Property Information
- Nunavut Legislation and Residential Tenancies Act (CanLII)
