Top 5 Things Tenants Must Know About Their Rights in Nunavut

Understanding your rights and responsibilities as a tenant in Nunavut is essential for a smooth and safe renting experience. The law in Nunavut gives tenants key protections—but there are also responsibilities you’ll need to meet, from paying rent on time to maintaining your unit properly. Here’s what every renter should know about navigating tenancy in Nunavut, explained in clear language and focused on practical steps for noticing, reporting, and resolving issues.

1. Know Your Legal Protections Under Nunavut Law

Tenancies in Nunavut are governed by the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act^[1]. This legislation outlines what landlords and tenants can—and can’t—do, including the rules for rent increases, deposits, privacy, repairs, evictions, and complaint procedures. If you’re unsure about an issue, Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut provides an overview of both rights and responsibilities.

2. Deposits, Rent, and Payment Rules

Most landlords in Nunavut require a security deposit, also called a damage deposit. By law, this deposit should not exceed one month’s rent. Your deposit must be returned at the end of your tenancy, minus any deductions for damages (not normal wear and tear), and you have the right to a written statement detailing any deductions.

• Always get a written receipt for any deposit you pay.
• Pay rent on time, as late payments can result in warning notices and possible eviction proceedings.

For a comprehensive breakdown of deposits and what to expect, read Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

3. Repairs, Maintenance, and Health & Safety

Your landlord is responsible for keeping the rental unit in a safe state of repair. You, as the tenant, must keep the home reasonably clean and avoid causing damage. If your unit needs repairs, notify your landlord as soon as possible in writing. For urgent problems that threaten your safety (like loss of heat, water, or vital services), your landlord must act quickly. If they do not respond, you can apply to the Nunavut Rental Office for resolution.

• Document issues with photos and keep records of your requests.
• Don’t withhold rent for repairs unless granted permission by a tribunal.

Learn practical tips for protecting your health and safety while renting in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

4. Notice Rules for Entering, Moving, and Ending Tenancies

Your landlord generally must give you at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your unit, except in emergencies. When ending a tenancy, written notice is also required—both from you and your landlord. The notice periods depend on the type of lease and reason for ending the tenancy. If you’re moving, always give proper notice in writing and keep a copy for your records.

• If you wish to move out, check your lease and the law for correct notice periods.
• If you receive a notice to end tenancy from your landlord, review the reason and confirm it meets legal requirements—some situations require longer notices or specific forms.

Relevant Forms and How to Use Them

• Notice of Termination (Form 1): Used by landlords or tenants to formally end a tenancy. Submit this form with all required details and retain a copy for your records. Download it from the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office.
• Application to Director (Form 2): If your landlord refuses to return your deposit or you have another disagreement, use this form to apply for a formal decision from the Rental Office. Available here (PDF).

It’s always best to read the instructions on each form’s first page, and ask for help from the Residential Tenancies Office if you’re unsure.

5. Resolving Disputes and Getting Help

If communication breaks down with your landlord or a major issue arises, you can formally apply to the Nunavut Rental Office—the official government tribunal that handles tenancy matters. File your application using the correct form and attach supporting documents (photos, emails, etc). The tribunal can help resolve issues like repairs, deposit returns, terminations, and more.

Tip: For common tenancy issues—from rent increases and repairs to deposits and complaint handling—the page Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained offers a helpful breakdown for both parties.

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1. Do I have to let my landlord in anytime?
   No. Except for emergencies, your landlord must provide you with at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your unit. The notice must state the reason and the time of entry, which must be between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
2. How do I get my damage deposit back?
   Your landlord must return your deposit within seven days of the tenancy ending, minus lawful deductions. Request a written explanation for any deductions and use the Application to Director form if you need to dispute the amount.
3. What should I do if my landlord won’t make urgent repairs?
   Notify your landlord in writing and keep a copy of your request. If the problem isn’t fixed promptly, submit an Application to Director to the Nunavut Rental Office for help.
4. Can my landlord raise my rent whenever they want?
   Rent increases can only happen once every 12 months and require at least three months’ written notice. If you think an increase is unreasonable, contact the Rental Office for advice.
5. Where can I go for help with a rental issue?
   Contact the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office for guidance, forms, and dispute resolution services.

1. How do I formally end my tenancy in Nunavut?
   1. Review your lease agreement for notice requirements.
   2. Complete a Notice of Termination (Form 1).
   3. Deliver the written notice to your landlord (in person or by mail).
   4. Keep a copy for your records.
2. How can I apply for my deposit refund if my landlord refuses?
   1. Fill out the Application to Director (Form 2).
   2. Attach any evidence, such as your lease and move-out photos.
   3. Submit the form to the Rental Office.
   4. Await instructions for your hearing or review.
3. What steps should I take if my landlord issues an eviction notice?
   1. Read the notice carefully to check if it follows legal requirements.
   2. If you dispute the eviction, file an Application to Director promptly.
   3. Gather documentation related to your tenancy.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office: Official tribunal for tenancy disputes, forms, and information
• Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act (Full Legislation)
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut: Key facts about rights, responsibilities, and processes

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1. [1] Read the full Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act (current 2024 version).
2. Forms and dispute resolution provided by the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Office.

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