Top 50 Questions on Landlord Compliance & Penalties in Nunavut

Landlord Compliance & Penalties Nunavut published June 26, 2025 Flag of Nunavut
Who enforces landlord and tenant rules in Nunavut?
The Nunavut Rental Office (official site) enforces landlord and tenant laws under the Residential Tenancies Act.
Which law protects tenants in Nunavut?
The Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act (full text) protects tenant rights.
What happens if my landlord doesn't follow the law?
The Rental Office can issue penalties or orders against landlords who break tenancy laws.
Can I report a landlord for not making repairs?
Yes. File a complaint with the Rental Office if the landlord refuses or delays repairs.
How do I report landlord non-compliance in Nunavut?
Use the "Application to the Rental Office" form available here to file a complaint.
What penalties can landlords face for breaking tenancy laws?
Penalties include fines, orders to comply, rent reductions, or compensation to tenants.
Is my landlord allowed to increase my rent without notice?
No, landlords must give proper written notice—at least three months before a rent increase.
What can I do if my landlord illegally increases the rent?
Apply to the Rental Office to have the increase reversed and penalties considered.
How much can my landlord increase rent in Nunavut?
Nunavut does not have a set maximum, but increases are limited by notice and local rules.
What are my rights if my landlord tries to evict me illegally?
You can file a complaint with the Rental Office and request an immediate review.
Do landlords need a reason to evict tenants?
Yes, landlords must have a legal reason set out in the Residential Tenancies Act.
Can my landlord enter my unit without permission?
No, they need to give 24 hours' written notice except for emergencies.
What if my landlord enters without notice?
Report to the Rental Office. The landlord may receive a penalty for violation of privacy rules.
Can my landlord shut off my heat or utilities?
No, it is illegal for a landlord to cut off essential services in Nunavut.
How do I request repairs in writing?
Provide a dated, written request to your landlord describing the needed repairs.
What forms do I use for filing complaints?
Use "Application to the Rental Office"—see Form 2 for most issues.
How long does the Rental Office take to resolve complaints?
Timelines vary, but urgent cases are expedited; most are reviewed within a few weeks.
My landlord refuses to fix something unsafe. What do I do?
File an urgent complaint with the Rental Office to force action on health and safety issues.
Can a landlord refuse to return my damage deposit?
Only if there is damage beyond normal wear and tear. Disputes can be submitted to the Rental Office.
What can I do if my landlord breaks the lease agreement?
File a complaint and seek compensation, or ask the Rental Office to enforce your agreement.
Is my landlord allowed to charge any penalty fees?
Only fees outlined in your lease and allowed under Nunavut's Residential Tenancies Act.
Can landlords be fined for not complying with rental laws?
Yes, the Rental Office can fine landlords for non-compliance or issue compensation orders.
Can I be evicted for complaining about my landlord?
No, it's illegal for a landlord to evict you for exercising your legal rights.
How do I appeal a decision from the Rental Office?
You can file an appeal to the Nunavut Court of Justice; seek legal advice if needed.
Do I have to pay rent if repairs are not made?
Rent is still due, but you can apply for rent reduction through the Rental Office.
What happens at a Rental Office hearing?
Both parties present evidence; the officer makes a decision and may order penalties.
Can landlords be ordered to compensate tenants?
Yes, for losses caused by landlord non-compliance under the Act.
How do I prove landlord non-compliance?
Keep all written communication, photos, and records of issues as evidence.
Can landlords refuse to rent to families or on other grounds?
Discrimination is illegal under Nunavut law and the Human Rights Act.
Will my landlord know if I make a complaint?
The landlord will be notified if a formal process starts, but retaliation is not allowed.
What if a landlord ignores a Rental Office order?
They face further penalties, and enforcement can go through the courts if needed.
Does the Rental Office provide free help for tenants?
The Rental Office provides guidance, forms, and information, but not legal advice.
How are disputes about penalties decided?
A Rental Officer considers both sides and makes a formal decision.
What proof do I need for a complaint?
Provide as much documentation as possible: letters, emails, photos, and witnesses.
Can I get compensation for hotel costs if repairs force me out?
Possibly, if the landlord failed in their duty; claim this via the Rental Office.
Should I keep paying rent during a dispute?
Yes, keep paying rent until the Rental Office decides otherwise.
Can my landlord retaliate if I file a complaint?
No, retaliation such as eviction or harassment is illegal.
How do I request an urgent hearing?
Indicate urgency on the "Application to the Rental Office" form and explain why.
Do all complaints require a hearing?
No, some are settled informally or by a Rental Officer review based on documentation.
Does the Rental Office issue penalties for small issues?
Penalties depend on the seriousness and impact of the non-compliance.
What is the maximum fine a landlord can face?
The Act allows significant fines; the exact amount depends on the case details.
Can tenants group together for complaints?
Yes, tenants can file a complaint as a group using a single application.
Is there a time limit to file complaints?
File complaints as soon as possible; delays may affect outcomes or penalty eligibility.
Can the Rental Office help with harassment?
Yes, harassment by landlords is illegal and can result in serious penalties.
Can I get legal help for my complaint?
You can seek advice from Nunavut Legal Aid (link), though the Rental Office doesn’t provide legal representation.
What can I do if my landlord violates privacy repeatedly?
Multiple violations increase penalties; keep records and report to the Rental Office.
Are there official forms for every complaint?
Most use the "Application to the Rental Office" (Form 2); special forms may apply in rare cases.
Can I get a written record of the decision?
Yes, the Rental Office provides a written order or decision after hearings.
What are my options if repairs are urgent?
Request an emergency hearing and provide all evidence of the urgent need.
How is evidence submitted to the Rental Office?
Include evidence (letters, photos, receipts) with your application form.
Is mediation available to tenants?
Yes, the Office may offer mediation instead of a formal hearing where appropriate.

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
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

Related Articles