Who ensures rental safety rules in Nunavut?
The Residential Tenancies Office enforces rental laws and safety standards.
Keep a written log of every entry notice and date. If entry occurs without proper notice, you can ask the Residential Tenancies Office for an order; bring copies of notices and any communications.
What law protects tenant safety in Nunavut?
Who is responsible for basic repairs and maintenance?
The landlord must keep the rental property safe and in good repair.
Can my landlord enter my unit without warning?
No, except in emergencies or if you agree.
What notice must my landlord give before entering?
At least 24 hours' written notice for non-emergency entry.
Emergencies allow entry without notice, but you should document what happened and follow up in writing. If safety procedures weren’t followed, contact the Residential Tenancies Office for guidance.
What if there’s a fire or flood emergency?
Landlords can enter without notice in an emergency to protect safety or property.
How should I report unsafe living conditions?
Notify your landlord in writing first. If unresolved, contact the Residential Tenancies Office.
What qualifies as an urgent repair?
Anything posing danger to health or safety, like broken heat in winter or blocked exits.
Document the issue with dates and, if possible, photos, and keep a copy of your written repair request. If the landlord doesn’t fix it promptly, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for an urgent repair order.
What can I do if urgent repairs aren’t made?
Submit a written repair request. If not fixed, you may apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for help using the RT-01 Application for an Order form.
Is my landlord required to provide locks on doors and windows?
Yes, landlords must provide locks and keep them working properly.
Can my landlord keep a key to my unit?
Yes, but they may only use it as allowed by law (notice or emergency).
Can I change the locks?
Only with your landlord’s permission, unless your safety is at risk. Always notify your landlord.
What should I do if I feel unsafe due to violence or threats?
Contact local police and inform your landlord. In emergencies, call 911 or RCMP.
Who fixes broken smoke detectors?
The landlord must repair or replace smoke detectors promptly.
Can I withhold rent until safety issues are fixed?
No, you must still pay rent, but can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for an order to fix the issue.
Withholding rent can lead to eviction or penalties. Instead, file an order with the Residential Tenancies Office to enforce repairs while you continue to pay rent.
What if another tenant harasses me?
Notify your landlord. If it continues, contact the police and Residential Tenancies Office.
Does my landlord have to remove snow and ice?
Yes, if this is their responsibility as set in your lease or local bylaw. Check your agreement.
Are buildings inspected for safety?
Buildings may be subject to municipal or government health and safety inspections.
Am I responsible for my own safety devices?
Tenants must not tamper with provided safety devices like smoke detectors, but landlords maintain them.
Are window guards required in Nunavut rentals?
Not specifically by territorial law, but landlords must ensure overall safety.
Who deals with pests or infestations?
Landlords are generally responsible for dealing with infestations unless caused by tenant’s neglect.
Can I have safety bars installed on windows?
Only with landlord’s permission and if done safely.
Who do I call for carbon monoxide detector issues?
Inform your landlord immediately. In emergencies, contact local fire services or RCMP.
Can a landlord remove common area lighting?
No, landlords must keep common areas safe and properly lit.
Does my landlord have to provide heat during cold months?
Yes, landlords must keep units adequately heated as defined in local regulations.
What if doors or windows won’t lock?
Notify the landlord in writing. They must repair safety issues promptly.
What are the rules about mold?
Landlords must fix water leaks and remove mold affecting health or safety.
If my landlord refuses repairs, what’s my next step?
Apply to the Residential Tenancies Office using the RT-01 Application for an Order form.
Is video surveillance allowed in my building?
Only in common areas, not inside your unit, and must respect privacy laws.
Is it legal for my landlord to enter for inspections?
Yes, with 24 hours’ written notice, except in emergencies.
What if the building’s main entry doesn’t lock?
Report to your landlord immediately. They must secure common entry points.
My bathroom has no ventilation—can I ask for repairs?
Yes, report in writing to your landlord; ventilation is part of health standards.
Should emergency exits be kept clear at all times?
Yes, landlords and tenants must keep emergency exits free of obstructions.
Are laundry rooms and hallways part of tenant safety?
Yes, landlords must keep all common areas safe and clean.
Can I install my own security cameras?
Only inside your unit and not pointed in common areas or neighbor’s space.
My landlord’s repairs are too slow—is there a timeline?
Repairs must be done promptly, especially for urgent safety issues.
What if the plumbing or water poses a hazard?
Report to your landlord and request urgent repairs in writing.
Do I need my landlord’s approval for extra door locks?
Yes, always get written permission before adding locks.
What can I do if maintenance staff enters without notice?
Remind your landlord of notice rules. If it persists, contact the Residential Tenancies Office.
If a safety issue damages my things, who pays?
The landlord may be responsible if they failed to maintain the property—consult the Residential Tenancies Office for disputes.
Can a landlord evict me if I complain about safety?
No. Retaliation for raising safety concerns is not allowed under Nunavut law.
What do I do if another tenant’s actions threaten my safety?
Report to your landlord and, if necessary, the RCMP or Municipal Bylaw Enforcement.
How can I request a building safety inspection?
Ask your landlord first. If not addressed, contact local authorities or the Residential Tenancies Office.
Are landlord’s safety duties different in subsidized housing?
No, safety obligations apply to all rental housing types in Nunavut.
Can my lease waive safety rights?
No, a lease can’t take away your legal right to a safe and secure home.
Where can I get a copy of Nunavut tenancy forms?
All forms are on the Government of Nunavut Residential Tenancies web page.
If I need to break a lease for safety reasons, what should I do?
Give written notice with safety concerns. If unresolved, apply for an Order using the RT-01 form.
What if repairs are unsafe or poorly done?
Re-report in writing and apply to the Residential Tenancies Office if issues remain.
Where do I get help or advice for safety problems?
Contact the Residential Tenancies Office or legal clinics in Nunavut.
Legal clinics and the Residential Tenancies Office can advise on next steps. Bring your lease, notices, landlord communications, and any photos or logs when you seek help.
