What to Do If Your Landlord Raises Rent Without Notice in Nunavut

If you’re renting in Nunavut and your landlord raises your rent without providing written notice, it can feel stressful and confusing. Nunavut has specific laws to protect tenants from unexpected or unfair rent increases. This guide explains your rights, the legal steps your landlord must follow, and exactly what you can do if your rent is raised without proper notice.

Your Rights as a Tenant Regarding Rent Increases

The Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act requires landlords to give tenants proper written notice before increasing rent. The required notice period, process, and your rights are set out in this legislation.

• Notice Period: Landlords must give at least three months (90 days) written notice before a rent increase.
• Form and Delivery: The notice must be delivered in writing, either by hand, mail, or another agreed-upon method.
• Timing: Rent cannot be raised during a fixed-term lease and increases can only occur once every 12 months on a month-to-month tenancy.

If your landlord increases your rent without following these rules, the increase is not legally valid.

What to Do If You Receive an Improper Rent Increase

Not all rent increases are legal. If you receive a rent hike without notice, here’s what to do:

1. Check Your Lease and Records: Review your tenancy agreement and communications to confirm you did not receive proper written notice.
2. Talk to Your Landlord: Politely inform your landlord that you have not received the required 90 days' written notice. Reference the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act if needed.
3. Continue Paying Original Rent: You are only required to pay your agreed rent until you receive proper legal notice.
4. Keep Records: Save all communication and documents regarding the rent increase.
5. Contact the Rental Office: If your landlord insists on collecting the higher rent or threatens eviction, reach out to the Nunavut Rental Office for assistance.

The rental office is Nunavut’s tenancy tribunal, handling disputes and providing legal forms and information for both tenants and landlords.

How to Dispute an Improper Rent Increase

Tenants in Nunavut can formally dispute an invalid rent increase through the Rental Office. Here’s an overview of the process:

• Application for Dispute Resolution: Use the Official Application Form (Form 2: Application) available from the Rental Office website.
• When to Use: Complete this form if you and your landlord cannot resolve the issue directly and you need an official ruling on the rent increase.
• How to Submit: Submit the completed form with relevant evidence (like your lease and letters) to the Rental Office in person, by mail, or email as directed on the form.

Relevant Legislation and Where to Get More Information

• The Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act is the main law covering rent increases and tenant rights in Nunavut.¹
• The Nunavut Rental Office enforces these rules and can help settle rent disputes.
• For additional issues, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut for a comprehensive overview.

Other Issues: Rent Payment Responsibilities

Be sure to understand your rent payment responsibilities and what happens if you pay a disputed increase. The Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips has helpful information for managing payments during disputes.

If you are moving into a new place or worried about security deposits, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

For nationwide housing options and to compare rental prices in different regions, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

FAQ: Quick Answers for Nunavut Tenants

1. My landlord raised my rent without notice—do I have to pay?
   No. You are only required to pay your current rent until you receive legal written notice at least 90 days in advance.
2. What form do I use to challenge a rent increase?
   Submit Form 2: Application to the Nunavut Rental Office to dispute the increase. Include evidence like your lease and previous rent receipts.
3. How much can my landlord increase the rent in Nunavut?
   Nunavut currently does not have a government-set rent increase cap. However, the landlord must always provide the required 90 days’ written notice and only one increase per year is allowed.
4. Who settles rent disputes in Nunavut?
   The Nunavut Rental Office handles rent disputes, complaints, and tenancy issues. Contact them for details and forms.
5. Can my landlord evict me for refusing to pay an improper rent increase?
   No, not if you are paying your agreed rent and the increase was not properly notified. If threatened, contact the Rental Office right away.

Key Takeaways for Nunavut Renters

• Your landlord must give 90 days’ written notice before raising your rent.
• Without proper notice, you do not have to pay the increased amount.
• Disputes can be resolved with the Nunavut Rental Office—always keep written records and use official forms.

If you’re ever unsure, seek help from the resources below.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Nunavut Rental Office: For forms, information, dispute resolution, and official complaints.
• Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act: Full text of the governing law.
• Nunavut Legal Services Board: Free legal information and advice to Nunavut residents.
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut: Learn more about your rights in the territory.

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1. Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act
2. Nunavut Rental Office — Forms and Guidance

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