Top 5 Things Tenants Should Know About Rent & Deposits in Nunavut

Renting a home in Nunavut comes with unique rules and protections for tenants. Whether you’re new to renting or have rented before, understanding your rights around rent payments and deposits will help ensure you’re treated fairly and protect your interests. This guide explains the top 5 things every Nunavut tenant should know about rent and deposits, including key legislation, standard forms, and where to get help.

Understanding Nunavut Rental Laws

Nunavut’s residential tenancies are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act (Nunavut).^[1] The Office of the Rental Officer oversees disputes, rent increases, security deposits, and tenant/landlord rights. All renters should be familiar with these rules to avoid misunderstandings and common issues.

1. What Is a Security Deposit and How Much Can Be Charged?

A security deposit, sometimes called a damage deposit, is an amount landlords can request before you move in. In Nunavut, the maximum deposit a landlord can ask for is equal to one month’s rent. This deposit protects the landlord if you cause damage or owe unpaid rent at the end of your tenancy.^[2]

• It must be deposited in a trust account.
• Landlords must provide a receipt for any deposit paid.
• Deposits cannot be used as the last month’s rent unless you and the landlord both agree.

For more details on deposits, read Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

2. Paying Your Rent: Timing and Methods

Rent is usually due on the first day of each month unless your rental agreement states otherwise. Always pay by the agreed method (e.g., electronic transfer, cheque, or another method you and your landlord accept). Landlords must provide a written receipt for every payment. Failing to pay your rent on time can lead to late fees or even eviction proceedings after appropriate notice and due process.

If you have trouble paying rent, seeking advice early from a tenant support service can help you avoid larger problems. For a full overview of your rent payment rights and responsibilities, see Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

3. How Rent Increases Work in Nunavut

Landlords in Nunavut must follow specific rules to raise the rent:

• Tenants must receive at least three months’ written notice of a rent increase.
• Rent can only be increased once every 12 months.
• The notice must include the new rent amount and the date the increase takes effect.

If you believe a rent increase isn’t legal or reasonable, you can apply to the Rental Officer to review it using Form 2: Application for Review of Rent Increase (Official forms here). Fill out this form if you receive a rent increase notice you wish to challenge, including a copy of the notice from your landlord.

4. Getting Your Deposit Back When You Move Out

When you leave your rental, your landlord must return your security deposit within 10 days—unless there are damages or other deductions. If there are deductions, you must receive an itemized list. If you disagree, contact the Rental Officer to resolve the dispute. Make sure you provide a forwarding address when moving.

For practical tips and legal steps on getting your deposit back, see How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

5. Rental Agreements: Know What You Sign

Every tenancy should have a written or verbal agreement outlining the rent amount, payment schedule, and deposit amount. Always read and understand your lease before signing. Ensure any rules and conditions are clear. After signing a rental agreement, your rights remain protected by Nunavut’s Residential Tenancies Act even if not all conditions are in writing.

Official Forms You’ll Need

• Form 1: Application to the Rental Officer – Used to file complaints or make general applications (e.g., to resolve a deposit dispute). Fill out and submit to the Rental Office with any supporting documents. Download Form 1 here.
• Form 2: Application for Review of Rent Increase – If you wish to dispute a proposed rent increase. Find the form here.

For comprehensive information on housing laws where you live, check out Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut.

To compare options or look for a new place, Browse apartments for rent in Canada on Canada's best rental listings platform.

1. Can a landlord ask for more than one month’s rent as a deposit in Nunavut?
   No, Nunavut’s law sets the maximum security deposit at one month’s rent.
2. How long does a landlord have to return a security deposit after I move out?
   Landlords must return your deposit within 10 days of your move-out date, minus any legal deductions and with an itemized statement if applicable.
3. What can I do if my landlord doesn’t return my deposit?
   You can apply to the Rental Officer using Form 1 to request the return of your security deposit. Provide all supporting documents, like your lease and move-out inspection report.
4. How much notice must a landlord give before increasing rent?
   At least three months’ written notice is required for any rent increase in Nunavut.
5. What should my written lease include?
   At minimum: your name, landlord’s name, address, rent, payment method, and deposit amount. Additional terms are allowed if both parties agree.

1. How do I dispute a rent increase in Nunavut?
   Review the written notice your landlord gave you. If you disagree with the increase, complete Form 2: Application for Review of Rent Increase (available from the Government of Nunavut website) within a reasonable time and submit it to the Office of the Rental Officer.
2. How can I apply for the return of my deposit if my landlord refuses?
   Fill out Form 1: Application to the Rental Officer, attach a copy of your lease, deposit receipt, and move-out documents, then submit the form to the Rental Officer for review.

Key Takeaways: Rent and Deposits for Nunavut Tenants

• Security deposits cannot exceed one month’s rent and must be returned within 10 days of moving out.
• Rent increases require at least three months’ notice and only occur once each year.
• Use official forms and keep thorough documentation to protect your rights as a tenant.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of the Rental Officer – Nunavut: Official website | Phone: (867) 975-6181 | Email: rentalofficer@gov.nu.ca
• Official Forms and Publications: Download Nunavut tenancy forms
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut: Full overview of Nunavut’s rules
• Local tenant support groups: Contact your local hamlet office for information about tenant services and dispute resolution.

---

1. Residential Tenancies Act (Nunavut)
2. Government of Nunavut – Residential Tenancies

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy