Top 50 Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Questions in Nunavut

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Nunavut published June 26, 2025 Flag of Nunavut
Who oversees rental disputes in Nunavut?
The Nunavut Rental Office handles residential tenancy matters. Learn more.
What law protects tenants in Nunavut?
The Residential Tenancies Act (Nunavut) governs tenant and landlord rights. See the Act.
How much notice must my landlord give before increasing rent?
Landlords must give at least three months’ written notice before a rent increase.
How often can my rent be increased?
Rent can only be increased once every 12 months in Nunavut.
Can my landlord evict me without reason?
No. Landlords must have a valid reason, as listed in the Act, to evict a tenant.
What notice must my landlord give to evict me?
Generally, at least 14 days written notice is required for eviction due to cause; longer without cause.
Does my landlord need to use an official eviction form?
Yes. Landlords must use the Notice to Terminate a Tenancy form. Download here.
What should I do if I disagree with an eviction notice?
File a dispute with the Rental Office within the specified time on the notice.
Can my landlord enter my unit without permission?
No. Landlords must give at least 24 hours’ written notice except in emergencies.
Is there a limit to security deposit amounts?
Yes. The deposit cannot exceed one month’s rent.
When should my security deposit be returned?
Within 10 days after the tenancy ends, unless there are deductions.
Do I have to pay for repairs caused by normal wear and tear?
No. Landlords are responsible for normal wear and tear repairs.
Who is responsible for major repairs?
Landlords must handle major repairs and keep the unit in livable condition.
What can I do if my landlord won’t fix something urgently?
File a complaint with the Rental Office for enforcement. Application Form.
Can my landlord charge late rent fees?
Yes, if the tenancy agreement allows, but fees cannot be unreasonable.
What if I can’t pay my rent on time?
Contact your landlord immediately and try to make arrangements in writing.
Does my landlord have to provide receipts for rent?
Yes, if you ask for one, the landlord must provide a receipt.
How much notice must I give to end my tenancy?
You must give at least one rental period’s notice in writing (usually one month).
Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I have kids?
No. Discrimination based on family status is illegal under Nunavut law.
Can I have pets in my rental unit?
Only if your tenancy agreement allows pets. Landlords can set restrictions.
What if my landlord increases my rent without proper notice?
You can file a complaint at the Rental Office for improper rent increase.
Am I responsible for utilities?
Only if your tenancy agreement says so. Otherwise, the landlord pays.
What does the Nunavut Rental Office do?
It resolves disputes and enforces the Residential Tenancies Act. Visit the Rental Office.
Can my landlord keep my mail after I move out?
No. The landlord must not withhold a tenant’s mail for any reason.
When can a landlord enter without notice?
Only in emergencies, like fire or flood.
How can I dispute a landlord’s deduction from my deposit?
File an Application to the Rental Office for review of the deduction.
What happens if I want to end my lease early?
You may owe rent until the end of the term unless otherwise agreed by the landlord.
Can my landlord raise my rent because I made a complaint?
No. This is called retaliatory action, which is not permitted.
Am I responsible for snow removal?
Only if your lease says so. Otherwise, it’s the landlord’s duty.
Can I change my own locks?
Not without your landlord’s written permission.
Is subletting allowed?
Only if your landlord agrees in writing.
Can my landlord show the unit to new tenants while I still live there?
Yes, but only with 24 hours’ written notice.
Do I have to allow repairs anytime?
No, but you must allow reasonable access for necessary repairs with proper notice.
Who pays for pest control?
Landlords are usually responsible, unless the tenant caused the problem.
Can a landlord refuse a service animal?
No. Refusing a tenant with a service animal is discrimination under Nunavut law.
What can I do if my landlord won't return my deposit?
File an Application to the Rental Office for your deposit return.
Must my landlord provide heat and water?
Yes, unless your lease clearly makes you responsible for these utilities.
Can I be evicted for having guests?
No, unless guests violate the lease or disturb others.
What if the rental unit becomes unlivable?
You may end the tenancy and apply for rent abatement at the Rental Office.
Can the landlord make rules after I move in?
No, unless you agree in writing to any new rules.
What forms do I use to report problems?
Use the Application to the Rental Office form. Form link.
Can I get my rent lowered if services are not provided?
You may apply to the Rental Office for a rent reduction.
Is oral notice to end tenancy valid?
No. All notices must be in writing to be valid.
What if my landlord threatens me?
Call the police if you feel unsafe; document the threats for the Rental Office.
Can my landlord increase my rent during my lease?
No, rent can’t increase during a fixed-term lease period.
How do I file a complaint with the Nunavut Rental Office?
Complete and submit an Application to the Rental Office. Download Form.
Can my landlord end my tenancy for no reason?
No, there must be specific legal grounds for ending a tenancy under the Act.
What happens if my lease expires but I stay?
If you stay with the landlord’s consent, the tenancy rolls over month-to-month.
Do I have to complete a move-in inspection?
Not required by law, but it helps prevent disputes over damages.
Can I be charged for cleaning at move-out?
Only if you leave the unit unreasonably dirty.

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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.

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