Can a landlord require a larger deposit for student tenants?

No. The maximum allowed in Nunavut is one month's rent, even for student tenants.

What happens if my roommate leaves our student rental before the lease ends?

You remain responsible for the lease if your name is on it. Discuss changes in writing with your landlord.

Are university residence agreements covered by Nunavut tenancy laws?

Some are exempt, but most private student rentals and standard leases are protected by Nunavut's Residential Tenancies Act.

Student Rentals in Nunavut: Rules and Tenant Rights

Special Tenancy Situations Nunavut published June 14, 2025

Student housing in Nunavut often comes with questions about lease rules, deposits, and tenant rights. Whether you're renting through a post-secondary institution, sharing a private rental, or navigating lease renewals, it's important to understand what makes student leases unique in Nunavut. This guide helps tenants—especially students—know their rights and responsibilities so you can rent with confidence.

How Nunavut’s Tenancy Laws Apply to Student Housing

Nunavut's main tenancy law is the Residential Tenancies Act (Nunavut)^[1]. This law applies to most student rentals, although some exceptions exist for university-operated housing. If you rent from a private landlord or share an apartment with other students, the Act generally protects you, ensuring the right to safe housing and fair lease agreements. The Nunavut Rental Office is the official tribunal for tenant-landlord matters in the territory.

Does Your Lease Count as Student Housing?

Private rental: Covered by the Act
Post-secondary residence: May be exempt, but many institutions provide similar dispute mechanisms
Shared apartment: Protected under tenancy law if you sign a standard lease

If you're unsure if you’re protected, seek guidance from the Rental Office or a tenant advisor (see below).

Key Rules and Unique Considerations for Nunavut Student Leases

Student tenants encounter some unique leasing scenarios in Nunavut. Here are the most important rules:

Fixed-term and periodic leases: Both are legal for students; check your rental agreement for start and end dates.
Security deposits: The Act limits deposits to one month’s rent, even in student housing. For details on deposits, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
Roommates: Each tenant on the lease shares responsibility. If a roommate moves out, speak to your landlord and clarify who is still legally responsible for rent and damages.
Eviction and lease termination: Standard notice periods apply, but students may face timing pressure related to school terms or graduation. For help navigating move-out, see Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

Repairs, Health, and Safety in Student Rentals

Student tenants have the right to a healthy and safe rental—regardless of who owns the unit. Landlords must keep the property in good repair and respond to maintenance concerns. Review your rights on Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting if you encounter problems like mold, pests, or repairs not being addressed.

Essential Forms for Student Tenants

Nunavut provides several official forms to help students address tenancy issues. Forms are available from the Nunavut Rental Office.

Application to the Rental Office (Form 1): Use this to resolve disputes (e.g., repairs, deposit returns, improper notice).
Example: If your landlord isn’t returning your security deposit after you move out, complete Form 1 and submit it to the Rental Office for mediation. Download the official Form 1 (PDF).
Notice to Terminate (Form 5 for tenants, Form 6 for landlords): If you want to end your lease at the end of the school year, use Form 5 to provide written notice to your landlord. Get Form 5 here.

These forms are designed to make communication and legal procedures straightforward for tenants, including students navigating their first lease.

What Happens at the End of a Student Lease?

When your academic year ends, you may be unsure if your lease automatically renews or ends. In Nunavut, fixed-term leases do not automatically renew—you must negotiate a new agreement or move out by the stated end date. For more on this process, see Lease Renewals: What Tenants Should Know About Their Rights.

Tip: Always request any deposit or prepaid rent return in writing and keep copies of correspondence.

Common Issues and Solutions for Student Tenants

Some challenges are common among student renters:

Not receiving written notice of rent increases (landlord must provide at least 3 months' written notice)
Roommate disputes (resolve in writing and notify the landlord)
Confusion about move-out procedures or final inspections

If you face these issues, take prompt action by reviewing your lease, using the appropriate official form, and contacting the Rental Office if needed.

Browse Student-Friendly Rentals and Your Nunavut Tenant Rights

From apartments to shared houses, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings including student rentals in Nunavut. For a full overview of tenant protections, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut.

Frequently Asked Questions: Student Rentals in Nunavut

Can a landlord require a larger deposit for student tenants?
No. The maximum security deposit allowed is one month’s rent, regardless of whether the tenant is a student.
What if my roommate leaves before our lease ends?
You are still responsible for the rent if you're listed on the lease. Talk to your landlord and roommates to find an arrangement or officially update the lease.
Do student leases end automatically at the end of the school year?
Only if you have a fixed-term lease. Otherwise, proper written notice must be given as required by the lease or the Residential Tenancies Act.
How do I handle maintenance issues in my student rental?
Notify your landlord in writing. If the issue is not fixed, submit an Application to the Rental Office (Form 1).
Is student housing through a college or university covered by the Act?
Some residence arrangements may be exempt, but most typical rentals and privately managed listings are covered.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Nunavut Rental Office — handles tenancy forms, complaints, and information
Government of Nunavut – Residential Tenancies
Local Student Unions and Legal Aid — contact your school for student-specific housing resources

Residential Tenancies Act (Nunavut)