Tenant Protections from Harassment in Nunavut Shared Housing

Living with roommates or in shared rental housing can offer flexibility and affordability, but it sometimes brings challenges like harassment. If you're a tenant in Nunavut, understanding your rights and protections under territorial law is crucial for your safety and comfort. This guide covers what constitutes harassment, what to do if it happens, and how Nunavut's laws and procedures protect tenants in shared homes.

What Is Harassment in a Rental Setting?

Harassment in shared housing can come from landlords, roommates, or subtenants. According to Nunavut's Residential Tenancies Act (Nunavut)¹, harassment includes:

• Repeated unwanted communication or behaviour causing discomfort or fear.
• Threats, intimidation, or abuse (verbal, written, or physical).
• Entering your room or unit without proper notice, except in emergencies.
• Unlawful attempts to force you out, such as changing locks or shutting off utilities.

Understanding what counts as harassment can help you identify the issue sooner and take the right steps.

Your Rights as a Tenant in Nunavut

All tenants in Nunavut — including those in shared accommodations or with roommates — have the right to reasonable privacy, quiet enjoyment, and safety in their rental home. The law prohibits any form of harassment by landlords or co-tenants. Key tenant rights include:

• The right to be free from intimidation or threats by landlords or roommates.
• The right for peace and quiet in your space.
• Protection from being forced out without lawful process.

For a full overview, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut.

If the Harassment Comes from a Roommate

Roommate situations can be especially tricky because Nunavut's laws may view your living arrangement differently depending on your lease:

• If both names are on the lease: You're both legal tenants, with equal rights and protections under the Act.
• If you're subletting: Your landlord or the primary tenant may have different responsibilities and rights.

What to Do If You're Experiencing Harassment

If you are being harassed by a landlord or roommate, these steps can help you protect yourself and resolve the problem:

1. Document Everything

• Keep written records of every incident: dates, times, what happened, and witnesses.
• Save messages, emails, or voicemails related to the harassment.

2. Notify the Landlord (If the Harasser Is a Roommate)

Let your landlord know in writing about the situation. Landlords are responsible for ensuring tenants can safely enjoy their homes.

3. Request Help or Mediation

• The Office of the Rental Officer (Nunavut's residential tenancy authority) can provide dispute resolution services.
• Ask about mediation or formal complaints if informal resolution fails.

4. Consider Filing a Formal Complaint

If the situation does not improve, you can file a formal application with the Office of the Rental Officer.

• Form: "Application to Rental Officer" (no standard numbered form; contact the office for the latest version)
• When to use: If you wish to report harassment, request an order for the harasser to stop, or seek compensation.
• Where to get it: Nunavut Rental Officer Application Forms
• Practical example: If your roommate repeatedly threatens you and the landlord's intervention hasn't helped, you can apply to the Rental Officer for an order.

Tenant Rights After Complaint Submission

After receipt of your complaint, the Rental Officer may offer mediation or investigate. Orders issued by the officer are legally binding for all parties.

• You can request orders for the harassment to stop, or orders that may change the living situation if needed for your safety.
• Failing to obey an order can lead to further legal consequences for the harasser.

Other Protections in Shared Housing Situations

Nunavut's rental laws apply to most private rentals — including shared apartments, co-rental houses, or when you rent by the room. You are entitled to essential services and a healthy home environment. For more on key issues, visit Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

If harassment leads to unsafe or unlivable conditions, you may have grounds for additional remedies.

Action Steps: How to File a Complaint with Nunavut's Rental Officer

• Gather and organize all records and evidence related to harassment.
• Notify your landlord in writing and keep copies.
• Download and complete the "Application to Rental Officer." Ensure all details are accurate.
• Submit your form by mail or in person to the address listed on the Nunavut Family Services page.
• Attend the mediation or hearing if scheduled. Be prepared to present evidence.

For more on rental disputes, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

For a full picture of your rights and dispute options, consult official resources and consider legal advice.

When seeking your next home, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings that fit your needs and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tenant Harassment in Nunavut

1. What counts as legal harassment by a landlord or roommate? Harassment includes any repeated, unwanted, or threatening behavior that invades your privacy or safety, such as intimidation, threats, or unlawful entry.
2. Can I end my lease early if I'm being harassed? You may seek to terminate your tenancy if the harassment is severe, but you must apply to the Rental Officer for permission and follow all legal procedures.
3. Does Nunavut law protect me if my roommate is the problem? Yes. If you are a tenant or subtenant, your rights apply. You can apply for dispute resolution and protection through the Rental Officer.
4. Will the Rental Officer mediate or investigate complaints? Yes. The Rental Officer may offer mediation and, if necessary, issue legally binding orders.
5. Where can I find help or someone to advocate for me? See the "Need Help? Resources for Tenants" section below for supportive contacts and official resources.

Conclusion: Key Points on Tenant Protections in Nunavut

• Tenants in Nunavut are protected against harassment in all rental and shared housing situations.
• Document incidents, notify your landlord, and use official complaint forms to seek help if needed.
• The Office of the Rental Officer provides free dispute resolution and can issue enforceable orders.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nunavut Office of the Rental Officer: Official government tenant information and complaint process
• Application Forms: Download official tenancy forms (PDF)
• Family Services (Tenants & Landlords): Support, mediation, and advocacy for Nunavut renters
• Legal Aid Nunavut: Free and low-cost legal advice for tenants

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (Nunavut), available at Nunavut Consolidated Legislation Database
2. Nunavut Office of the Rental Officer, Tenants and Landlords
3. Rental Officer Application Forms, Nunavut Government Forms (PDF)

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