Above-Guideline Rent Increases in Saskatchewan Explained

As a tenant in Saskatchewan, it's important to know your rights and responsibilities when it comes to rent increases—especially if your landlord asks for an amount above the usual legal limit. Understanding above-guideline rent increases will help you make informed decisions and protect your rights as a renter.

What Is an Above-Guideline Rent Increase?

An above-guideline rent increase takes place when a landlord asks for an increase higher than the standard permitted annual adjustment set by Saskatchewan law. These increases are only allowed in specific situations approved by the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT), the tribunal that oversees landlord-tenant matters in the province.

Standard Rent Guidelines and When Above-Guideline Increases Apply

In Saskatchewan, there is no provincially mandated limit or "rent control percentage." Landlords are allowed to increase rent as long as they provide the correct legal notice. However, if the increase seems excessive or tied to repairs or improvements that benefit you, you can ask the ORT to review the situation. Above-guideline increases typically relate to:

• Major repairs or capital improvements
• Dramatic increases in municipal taxes or utilities

Saskatchewan law requires landlords to provide at least 12 months of notice for the first rent increase, and at least two months’ notice for subsequent increases in most cases. You cannot receive more than one rent increase in a 12-month period.^[1]

Notice Requirements and Official Forms

Your landlord must provide written notice detailing:

• The amount of the proposed increase
• The date it will take effect
• The reason for the above-guideline increase (if applicable)

The notice should be served using the official Notice of Rent Increase form provided by the ORT. If you disagree with the proposed increase, you can file a form to dispute it.

How to Dispute an Above-Guideline Rent Increase

If you think your rent increase is unjustified, you have the right to dispute it. This is done through the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT). The main steps are:

• Receive the Notice of Rent Increase from your landlord
• If you disagree, apply for a hearing with the ORT within 30 days of receiving the notice
• Fill out the official Application for Hearing (ORT Form). This form is used to request that the ORT review the rent increase before it takes effect. For example, you might use this if the landlord cites renovations, but you believe they do not benefit you or go beyond necessary repairs.

For more about your obligations and protections at all stages of renting, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Your Rights and How the ORT Reviews Rent Increases

The Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT official website) will hold a hearing if you challenge the rent increase. Both you and your landlord can present evidence. The ORT will look at whether the improvements or cost increases justify the higher rent.

For ongoing guidance on common disputes and how to resolve them, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Legislation That Governs Rent Increases

In Saskatchewan, rental law is covered by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan). This legislation sets out the rules for rent increases, notice periods, and your right to seek a hearing with the ORT.^[2]

Practical Tenant Example

Example: Emma receives a notice from her landlord saying her rent will increase by $150 a month to cover new elevators in the building. Emma does not think this increase is fair, so she files an Application for Hearing (ORT Form) with the ORT. At the hearing, the ORT examines if the elevator upgrades benefit all tenants and if the cost justifies the increase. They decide whether the full amount or a reduced increase is reasonable.

Other Considerations for Tenants

Even if you accept a rent increase, be sure you're clear on your rental payment obligations. For tips on handling your rent and preventing issues, check out the Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

You can also Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme if you decide to seek alternative housing or compare rent levels elsewhere.

For a full overview of tenant and landlord law in your province, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much notice does my landlord need to give for a rent increase?
   At least 12 months before the first increase, and two months before subsequent increases within a tenancy agreement.
2. Can my landlord raise the rent by any amount in Saskatchewan?
   There is no legal "cap" on rent increases, but you can dispute excessive increases through the ORT, especially if related to renovations or major repairs.
3. What should I do if I think my rent increase is unfair?
   Apply for a hearing with the Office of Residential Tenancies within 30 days of getting your rent increase notice using the official Application for Hearing form.
4. Do above-guideline rent increases have to be justified?
   Yes—landlords must explain the reason for the increase, such as significant repairs or cost increases, and the ORT will review the justification.
5. Where can I learn more about my rights as a Saskatchewan tenant?
   Visit the Office of Residential Tenancies website or see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan for more information and resources.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Above-guideline rent increases must be properly justified and officially noticed
• You have the right to dispute any rent increase you believe is unfair
• The Office of Residential Tenancies is your main resource for hearings and tenancy protections

If you understand your rights and respond promptly to notices, you can protect your housing and budget.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): Official board for Saskatchewan. Phone: 1-888-215-2222
• Saskatchewan Ministry of Social Services – Renting and Leasing Information
• Saskatchewan Landlord and Tenant Support Services: 1-866-757-3141
• Local legal aid clinics and community resources in your city

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1. Saskatchewan Renting Rules and Rent Increase Notice: Government of Saskatchewan - Rent Increases
2. Saskatchewan Residential Tenancies Act, 2006: Read the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006

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