10 Key Facts About Dispute Resolution & LTB for Saskatchewan Renters

Living in a rental home in Saskatchewan, you may face challenges like disagreements with your landlord, rent increases, or unresolved maintenance. Knowing your rights and the correct steps to resolve disputes is crucial. Here are 10 essential facts every Saskatchewan renter should understand about the dispute resolution process and how the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) can help you protect your rights.

1. The Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) Handles Rental Disputes

If you can’t resolve issues directly with your landlord, the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) is Saskatchewan’s official body for resolving landlord-tenant disputes. Whether it’s about rent, repairs, or eviction, the ORT is your place to file an application and get a fair decision.

2. Saskatchewan’s Key Tenancy Legislation

Your rental relationship is governed by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1]. This law outlines the rights and responsibilities of both renters and landlords, setting rules for deposits, rent, repairs, and evictions.

3. Attempt Direct Communication First

It’s best to try resolving issues directly with your landlord. Keep communication in writing and save copies for your records. This step can often solve smaller issues quickly and is looked on favourably if you later go to the ORT.

4. Common Rental Issues Eligible for Dispute Resolution

The ORT can resolve many disputes, such as:

• Unreturned security deposits
• Repair and maintenance concerns
• Unlawful evictions or notice disputes
• Questions around rent increases
• Problems with lease agreements

For information on frequent rental challenges and how to address them, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

5. Essential Forms for Dispute Resolution

To start a dispute, you must fill out the correct form for your situation. Below are common forms:

• Application for Dispute Resolution: Used to ask the ORT to resolve issues like deposits, repairs, eviction, or lease disputes.
  Find this form here.
  For instance, if your landlord refuses to return your security deposit after you move out, this is the form you’d submit.
• Notice of Hearing: If your case is scheduled, the ORT will send you a Notice of Hearing with the date, time, and instructions. You must attend or risk losing by default.
• Request for Reconsideration: If you think an error was made in a decision, this form lets you ask for review. Get the form here.

6. Timelines Matter in Disputes

There are strict time limits for many applications. For example, you must apply to the ORT for dispute resolution about a security deposit within two years of the tenancy ending. Never delay if you believe your rights have been breached.

7. What Happens at a Hearing?

Hearings are usually held by phone or in person. Be prepared to share:

• Correspondence with your landlord
• Photos or other evidence
• Receipts, leases, and witness statements

The adjudicator makes a binding decision after hearing from both sides.

8. Rights and Responsibilities Remain in Effect During Disputes

Until a final decision is made, tenants must pay rent and landlords must keep up their obligations. For detailed information about both parties’ duties, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

9. Rent Increases and Disputes

Landlords must provide proper written notice for any rent increase. Most increases require at least 12 months between hikes, with three months’ written notice. If you believe your increase violates the rules, you can file an application with the ORT.

10. Where to Learn More About Your Rights

For a complete overview of your Saskatchewan rights—including moving in, deposits, and ending tenancies—see the page Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan. You can also search Canadian rentals with interactive map view if looking for a new home.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the ORT and how does it help tenants?
   The Office of Residential Tenancies is a provincial body that resolves disputes between tenants and landlords concerning issues like security deposits, repairs, or evictions. It offers hearings and binding decisions.
2. Do I need to pay rent while my dispute is being resolved?
   Yes, tenants must continue paying rent during the dispute resolution process unless the ORT rules otherwise.
3. How soon must I act if I have an issue with my landlord?
   You should file an application as soon as possible. For most disputes, such as security deposits, you have up to two years after your tenancy ends to apply, but acting quickly is always recommended.
4. Can I appeal an ORT decision?
   Yes, but only under certain circumstances. You may file a Request for Reconsideration form if you believe there was an error or new evidence is available.
5. Where can I find official government forms for disputes?
   All forms are available on the ORC website’s forms page.

How To: Resolving a Dispute with the ORT

1. How do I apply to the ORT in Saskatchewan?
   1. Choose and download the right dispute resolution form from the ORT website. 2. Fill it out with your details and the issue. 3. Submit the form online, by mail, or in person, and pay the required fee. 4. Await your hearing date and prepare your evidence.
2. How can I prepare for a tenancy hearing?
   Collect all emails, documents, invoices, and photographs that support your side. Make notes of key events and organize your evidence in advance.
3. What should I do if I get a Notice of Hearing?
   Read it carefully. Note the date and time, gather your evidence, and join the hearing by phone or in person as directed.

Key Takeaways

• The ORT is the official body for rental disputes in Saskatchewan.
• Time limits apply—act quickly if problems arise.
• Accurate records and following the correct procedure help protect your interests.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): Saskatchewan’s dispute resolution authority. Offers forms, guides, and contact details.
• Phone: 1-888-215-2222 (toll-free in Saskatchewan)
• Email: ort@gov.sk.ca
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan: Learn your rental rights and legal protections in detail.

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1. Government of Saskatchewan. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006

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