Your rights and responsibilities in Nunavut Housing Corporation units
All tenants in Nunavut Housing Corporation (NHC) units have rights to safe, secure and habitable housing, and responsibilities like paying rent on time and reporting damage. The NHC manages applications, maintenance, and tenancy decisions in coordination with territorial rules.[1][3]
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Repairs, maintenance and habitability
Landlords must keep units livable: heat, water, plumbing and structural safety. Tenants should report issues promptly, document them with photos, and submit formal maintenance requests. For common health and safety concerns, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
Emergency vs routine repairs
Call your local NHC office immediately for emergencies like no heat, major water leaks, or electrical hazards; follow up with a written request.
- Document the problem with date-stamped photos and a short note.
- Contact the local NHC property manager by phone and keep a record of the call.
- Submit a written maintenance request or form to the NHC office.
- Allow reasonable time for repairs; ask for timelines in writing and note responses.
Notices, eviction and dispute resolution
NHC must follow territorial procedures to end a tenancy. If you receive a notice, read it carefully for deadlines and reasons, and respond within the stated time. If you disagree, you can file a dispute with the territorial tribunal or court that handles housing matters.[2]
Common notices and what they mean
- Notice to Remedy: a request to fix behaviour or conditions, often with a deadline.
- Notice to Vacate: an eviction notice listing the reason and date by which you must leave.
- Order to Evict: a court or tribunal decision that may follow if disputes are unresolved.
Forms and how to use them
Use official NHC forms when applying, reporting repairs, or responding to notices. Common forms include the Rental Application, Maintenance Request, and Notice to Terminate Tenancy; form numbers and filing instructions are listed on the NHC site.[1]
Practical examples
- If your furnace fails in winter, call immediately and file a Maintenance Request so the issue is recorded.
- If you receive a Notice to Vacate you disagree with, collect evidence and apply to the tribunal before the deadline.
- Keep rent receipts and records to show payments if there is a rent dispute; see Tenant''s Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.
FAQ
- Can the NHC increase my rent during a lease?
- Rent increases follow territorial rules and the terms of your agreement; NHC must give proper notice and follow any territorial limits or approval processes.
- How long will repairs take?
- Timelines depend on urgency: emergencies require immediate attention, routine repairs should be scheduled and completed within a reasonable time after a written request.
- What if I feel my unit is unsafe?
- Report safety concerns to NHC right away, document the issue, and contact local tenant support or the tribunal if there is no timely response.[2]
How-To
- Describe the problem clearly, date it, and take photos or video as evidence.
- Call the local NHC office to report the issue and follow up by submitting the official Maintenance Request form in writing.[1]
- Keep records of all calls and responses; if the problem continues, ask for estimated timelines in writing.
- If repairs are not made, file a dispute with the tribunal and include your documentation and maintenance requests.[2]
Key Takeaways
- Document all requests, replies, and dates to support your case.
- Use official forms and keep copies for every interaction with NHC.
