Tenants in Nunavut have clear rights against harassment and unsafe entry by landlords or others. This guide explains what behaviour counts as harassment or unlawful entry, how to keep records and evidence, when to call local authorities, and how to file a formal complaint with the residential tenancies tribunal or housing authority. You will find practical steps for documenting incidents, requesting repairs without fear of retaliation, and preparing the forms and evidence needed for a hearing. If you’re dealing with repeated unwanted contact, surprise inspections, or forced entry, this article shows how to protect your privacy and safety while using the official processes available to Nunavut renters.
What counts as harassment or unsafe entry?
Harassment can include repeated unwanted phone calls, threats, intimidation, or behaviour designed to make a tenant feel forced to move. Unsafe or unlawful entry is when someone comes into your rental unit without proper notice, without permission, or by force when the situation is not an emergency. In most non-emergency situations, landlords must give reasonable written notice and enter at reasonable times.
Your rights in Nunavut
Nunavut tenants are entitled to privacy, safety, and protection from harassment. If you believe your rights are being violated, you can document incidents, notify your landlord in writing, and pursue remedies through territorial authorities or the courts. For an overview of local rights and responsibilities, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut and consult the official territorial resources listed below[2].
How to document incidents
- Take dated photos and videos showing evidence of entry, damage, or unsafe conditions.
- Keep a written log of every incident with times, locations, and who was present.
- Save texts, emails, and call records that show unwanted contact or threats.
- Collect witness names and statements where possible.
When a landlord can legally enter
Except in emergencies, landlords should give written notice before entering and schedule visits at reasonable times. If your landlord enters without notice or permission and there is no emergency, that entry may be unlawful and you can document and report it.
How to respond safely right away
If you feel threatened or unsafe, call local emergency services first. For non-emergency unlawful entry or harassment, send a clear written notice to your landlord explaining the behaviour, ask that it stop, and state that you will pursue formal remedies if it continues. Keep a copy of that notice for your records and note when it was delivered.
Official forms and when to use them
- Court or tribunal application forms — Use the civil or court application forms when you need a formal hearing or order to stop harassment or get a remedy; for example, file a civil complaint if repeated unlawful entry has caused loss or you need an enforcement order. See the territorial courts resource below for the correct form and process[2].
- Nunavut Housing Corporation intake or complaint contact — Use the housing corporation contact or tenant assistance forms to report unsafe habitability issues or request assistance; for example, report repeated unsafe entries that are linked to building management and request their intervention[1].
- Police report — If the conduct includes threats, forced entry, or assault, file a police report immediately; this can be used as evidence in tribunal or court proceedings[3].
Practical steps before a hearing
- Make clear, dated copies of all evidence: photos, logs, messages, and witness contacts.
- File the correct application or claim form with the territory's court or tribunal and pay any required fees.
- Request any interim orders you may need for safety or to stop the behaviour while your case proceeds.
FAQ
- What behaviour is considered harassment by a landlord?
- Harassment includes repeated unwanted contact, intimidation, threats, or any actions intended to force you to leave or to interfere with your peaceful enjoyment of the rental unit.
- Can a landlord enter my unit without notice?
- Only in emergencies may a landlord enter without notice. For routine access, landlords are expected to give reasonable written notice and enter at reasonable times.
- How do I file a complaint about harassment or unlawful entry?
- Document the incidents, send a written notice to your landlord, and then file the appropriate application with the territorial court or contact the Nunavut Housing Corporation or other tenant support services for guidance.
How-To
- Document the incident with photos, dated notes, and copies of messages.
- Gather witness names and contact details and keep any call or message records.
- Send a written notice to your landlord describing the harassment or unlawful entry and state your requested remedy.
- If you are in immediate danger or if a crime occurred, call police and get a copy of the report.
- File the correct application with the territorial court or seek assistance from Nunavut Housing Corporation as appropriate.
- Attend any hearing prepared with printed copies of all evidence and a clear timeline of events.
Key Takeaways
- Document all incidents carefully with dates, photos, and witness details.
- Send a written notice to your landlord and keep a copy before filing a formal complaint.
- Use official territorial courts or housing corporation processes to seek remedies and orders.
Help and Support / Resources
- Nunavut Housing Corporation
- Government of Nunavut — Courts and legal resources
- Government of Nunavut — Justice
If you need help finding housing alternatives while addressing safety concerns, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to search available rentals in other regions.
