What happens if my landlord refuses to do a move-out inspection in Nunavut?

Your landlord may lose the right to claim damages against your deposit if you tried in good faith to arrange an inspection. You should document the condition of your unit and notify the Rental Officer if a problem arises.

How soon should I receive my security deposit after moving out?

Nunavut law requires landlords to return your deposit within 10 days of the tenancy’s end, unless proper deductions are justified and explained in writing.

Can I get my deposit back even if no inspection happened?

Yes. If your landlord did not conduct an inspection and withholds your deposit, you can dispute this with the Rental Officer, especially if you have proof of the unit’s condition and your efforts to arrange an inspection.

What records should I keep when moving out?

Keep dated photos, a copy of your move-out notice, all communication with your landlord, a written forwarding address, and any receipts for cleaning or repairs you paid for.

Who handles rental disputes for tenants in Nunavut?

The Office of the Rental Officer is the tribunal that oversees all landlord-tenant disputes—including deposit and inspection issues—in Nunavut.

What to Do If Your Landlord Skips the Move-Out Inspection in Nunavut

Moving In / Out Nunavut published: June 20, 2025

Moving out of a rental home in Nunavut can be stressful, especially if your landlord fails to conduct a move-out inspection. This inspection protects you by formally recording the condition of your unit before you leave. If your landlord doesn't do it, you might wonder what to do next and how your security deposit will be affected.

Why the Move-Out Inspection Matters for Nunavut Tenants

The move-out inspection (often called a condition inspection) is an agreed walk-through between tenant and landlord at the end of a tenancy. It documents any damage beyond normal wear and tear and helps determine if deductions should be made from your security deposit.

Protects your rights as a tenant
Provides clear evidence of the unit's condition
Helps resolve disputes about repairs or cleaning

In Nunavut, these inspections are especially important because they can impact if and how your security deposit is returned.

What If Your Landlord Doesn't Do the Move-Out Inspection?

If your landlord fails to conduct a move-out inspection at the end of your lease, you could be at risk of unfair deductions from your deposit or disputes about the unit's condition. It's helpful to know your next steps and to keep records to protect yourself.

Steps You Can Take as a Tenant

Document the condition: Take clear photos and videos of the entire rental (including appliances, walls, floors, and any areas of existing damage) on or just before your move-out date.
Notify your landlord in writing: Let your landlord know, by email or letter, that you’re ready for an inspection. Offer specific dates and times. Save copies for your records. If they refuse or don’t respond, you have documented proof you tried.
Submit a forwarding address: Give your landlord your new address in writing so they know where to send the deposit.
Keep all receipts for cleaning or repairs you did before leaving.

If your landlord withholds your deposit or tries to claim damages without an inspection, your careful documentation will help you if you need to dispute their decision.

Security Deposits and Your Rights in Nunavut

Under the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act, landlords must return your security deposit (minus lawful deductions) within 10 days of the end of your tenancy, unless they have clear reasons to keep part or all of it ^[1].

If no inspection took place and there’s a dispute, your next step is to apply to the Northwest Territories and Nunavut Office of the Rental Officer. Learn more about the process in Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know and How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

How to File a Dispute in Nunavut

If you cannot resolve the issue directly, file an application with the Office of the Rental Officer. This official body handles tenant-landlord disputes in Nunavut, including deposit return issues.

Form Name: Application to Rental Officer
When to Use: If your landlord keeps your deposit without reason or didn't inspect your unit after you tried to arrange it
Where to Get: Nunavut Rental Office Forms
Example: After moving out, you haven't received your deposit back and there was no inspection. You fill out and submit this form to start a formal dispute.

Visit the Office of the Rental Officer (Nunavut) to learn more about tenant and landlord responsibilities, access forms, and read about the dispute resolution process.

What the Law Says

The Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act sets out how inspections and deposits work. If your landlord doesn't follow legal inspection procedures, it may limit their ability to claim damages.

Tenants should always keep dated photographs, copies of written requests to landlords, and a record of the unit’s condition when leaving—these provide strong evidence if a dispute arises.

Find Your Next Rental Home

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For detailed local tenant protections and move-out rules, read Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Nunavut.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if my landlord refuses to do a move-out inspection in Nunavut?
Your landlord may lose the right to claim damages against your deposit if you tried in good faith to arrange an inspection. You should document the condition of your unit and notify the Rental Officer if a problem arises.
How soon should I receive my security deposit after moving out?
Nunavut law requires landlords to return your deposit within 10 days of the tenancy’s end, unless proper deductions are justified and explained in writing.
Can I get my deposit back even if no inspection happened?
Yes. If your landlord did not conduct an inspection and withholds your deposit, you can dispute this with the Rental Officer, especially if you have proof of the unit’s condition and your efforts to arrange an inspection.
What records should I keep when moving out?
Keep dated photos, a copy of your move-out notice, all communication with your landlord, a written forwarding address, and any receipts for cleaning or repairs you paid for.
Who handles rental disputes for tenants in Nunavut?
The Office of the Rental Officer is the tribunal that oversees all landlord-tenant disputes—including deposit and inspection issues—in Nunavut.

Key Takeaways for Nunavut Tenants

Document your unit’s condition thoroughly if your landlord skips the move-out inspection
Submit your forwarding address in writing
If disputes arise, apply to the Rental Officer using the proper forms

Staying organized helps protect your rights and deposit during your move-out.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Nunavut Office of the Rental Officer – Information, forms, and dispute resolution
Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act (full text)
Tenant advocacy groups and local legal clinics can help you understand your rights and support you if you need to file a complaint

Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act, current as of 2024.
Office of the Rental Officer - Government of Nunavut
Nunavut Rental Office Forms and Resources