Using Witnesses and Statements at Nunavut LTB

If you are a tenant or renter in Nunavut facing a dispute at the Landlord and Tenant Board, knowing how to use witnesses and written statements can make a big difference. This guide explains in plain language how to identify useful witness testimony, gather clear written statements, and present both so the board can understand your version of events. You will learn what evidence the LTB typically accepts, how to prepare witnesses and statements to avoid delays, and practical steps for filing required forms. The guidance is focused on tenants preparing for hearings about repairs, rent issues, and eviction-related matters, so you can feel confident and organized when you attend or submit documents.

What the Nunavut LTB considers

The Nunavut Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) considers evidence that is relevant, reliable and tied to the issues in the application. When preparing for a hearing, explain who your witnesses are and what they will testify about, and cite the relevant tenancy law that applies in Nunavut ^[2]. For information about local tenant and landlord rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut. For official board information and filing procedures, consult the territorys official LTB page ^[1].

Common types of evidence

• Photographs and videos with dates and clear descriptions.
• Written witness statements signed and dated by the person who observed the event.
• Receipts, repair requests, emails and a chronological communication log.
• Official notices, applications, and forms submitted to the board.

Preparing witness statements

Written statements help the board understand facts when a witness cannot attend or to support oral testimony. A clear statement should focus on observable facts with dates, times and locations.

• Ask witnesses to write a short, dated statement describing exactly what they saw or heard and when.
• Have witnesses include their contact information and sign or initial each page to confirm authenticity.
• Review the statement with the witness so facts are clear, concise and limited to first-hand observations.
• Avoid coaching; witnesses should report facts, not conclusions or guesses.

How to present witnesses at the hearing

If you plan to have witnesses appear in person, notify the board in your filing and follow the boards instructions about witness lists and evidence exchange. If someone cannot attend, note that many boards accept signed statements or affidavits in place of oral testimony depending on rules and the judges discretion.

• Request permission to call witnesses at the hearing and include their names and a short summary of their expected testimony.
• Bring originals and several copies of each document: one for the board, one for the landlord, and one for your file.
• If a witness cannot attend, submit a signed written statement or sworn affidavit if the board permits.
• Be prepared for questions from the landlord or board and keep witness answers focused on facts.

Filing forms and timelines

Follow the boards filing rules and timelines carefully. Forms, proof of service and any witness statements should normally be filed when you submit your application or within the timelines set by the board ^[3]. For common tenant problems and steps to resolve them, you may also find the guide on Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them useful.

• Complete the boards application form and attach witness statements and supporting documents.
• Serve the landlord and file proof of service as required by the boards rules.
• Check hearing dates and any deadlines for exchanging evidence; missing a deadline can delay your case.

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FAQ

Can I use a friend or neighbour as a witness?

Yes. A witness who has direct, first-hand knowledge of the events can provide testimony about what they observed.

What should be in a written witness statement?

Include the date, time, location, a factual description of what happened, the witnesss contact details and a signature; avoid opinions.

What if a witness cant attend the hearing?

Submit a signed written statement or affidavit if the board allows it, and explain your efforts to have the witness attend.

How-To

1. Gather evidence and ask witnesses to write dated, signed statements describing only what they personally observed.
2. Complete and file the board application, attach all statements and documents, and serve the landlord as required.
3. Prepare witnesses for factual questioning, attend the hearing, and present documents clearly to the board.
4. After the decision, obtain any written orders and follow the boards directions for enforcement or appeals if applicable.

Help and Support / Resources

• Government of Nunavut  Residential Tenancies information
• Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act and official forms

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1. [1] Government of Nunavut - Residential Tenancies information
2. [2] Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act
3. [3] Nunavut official tenancy forms and instructions