Major repairs sometimes make a rental unsafe or unlivable and may require tenants in Nunavut to temporarily relocate. This guide explains tenant rights and landlord duties during major repairs, including who pays for temporary accommodation, notice and timing rules, how to document habitability issues, and steps to seek help from the territory's tenancy authority. It outlines practical steps for packing, moving, and returning, plus how to protect your rent deposit and avoid losing tenancy rights while away. If you face short- or long-term displacement because of repairs, the information below will help you understand forms, timelines, and official dispute options so you can make informed choices and keep a clear record.
What the law says in Nunavut
Nunavut tenants have rights around habitability and temporary relocation when major repairs are needed. Landlords must follow the territory's tenancy rules on notice, entry, and repair obligations and may be required to provide or pay for temporary accommodation in some cases.[1] If a landlord asks you to move out for repairs, get any offer in writing and ask for details about who pays for accommodation and moving costs. For an overview of tenant and landlord rights in the territory, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut.
When major repairs require temporary relocation
Major repairs that affect safety or basic services—such as structural fixes, prolonged loss of heat or water, or remediation of hazardous conditions—are the most common reasons for temporary relocation. The landlord should provide clear notice of the work, expected start and end dates, and any plans for temporary housing or compensation. Keep all notices and correspondence in writing.
- Document the damage with dated photos, videos and a short written log.
- Ask for a written notice from the landlord that explains the scope of repairs, timeline and any accommodation arrangements.
- Keep receipts for temporary accommodation, moving expenses and any other costs you incur because of the relocation.
- Request compensation or temporary housing offers in writing and keep copies of your requests.
Who pays, and how are costs handled?
Whether a landlord must pay for temporary accommodation depends on the cause of the repairs and what the tenancy rules say about habitability and landlord responsibility. If the repairs are required because of the landlord's failure to maintain the unit, you can usually seek reimbursement for reasonable relocation costs or temporary housing. If repairs are caused by an emergency that is not the landlord's fault, the outcome can differ, so keep records and ask the tenancy authority about your options.[2]
FAQ
- Do I have to move out if my landlord says there will be major repairs?
- Not always; you should receive clear written notice explaining why the move is needed and for how long. If the work affects safety or essential services, temporary relocation may be reasonable.
- Who pays for temporary accommodation during repairs?
- If repairs are required because the landlord did not maintain the unit, the landlord is often responsible for reasonable temporary housing and moving costs. Keep receipts and ask the tenancy authority for help if the landlord refuses.
- Can I break my lease if I must relocate?
- Only in certain situations where the unit is uninhabitable or the landlord breaches essential obligations. Seek advice and keep documentation before abandoning the tenancy to avoid liability for unpaid rent.
How-To
- Confirm the problem affects safety or basic services so relocation is clearly tied to habitability.
- Document the issue with photos, videos and dated notes describing the condition.
- Ask the landlord in writing for the repair schedule, accommodation plan and any compensation offer.
- Keep all receipts for temporary housing, meals and moving costs and request reimbursement if appropriate.
- Contact the territory's tenancy authority or legal clinic for guidance if the landlord will not cooperate.
- When returning, inspect the unit with the landlord and document the condition to protect your deposit and rights.
Key Takeaways
- Document everything and keep copies of notices, photos and receipts.
- Ask for written timelines and accommodation plans from your landlord.
- Save receipts for temporary costs and file a claim if the landlord is responsible.
Help and Support / Resources
- Government of Nunavut — Department of Community and Government Services
- Nunavut Department of Justice — Tenant and housing resources
