After a break-in, tenants often feel shaken and uncertain about what to do next. In Saskatchewan you have practical steps and rights that help protect your safety, personal property, and housing. This guide explains immediate actions for renters, what landlords are generally required to do under provincial rules, how to document damage and preserve evidence, and options if repairs or security fixes are delayed. It also points to official resources, forms, and the Office of Residential Tenancies so you can take practical, tenant-focused steps. Read on to learn clear, plain-language guidance about safety, repairs, filing a complaint, and getting help in Saskatchewan.
What to do right away
Take actions that protect personal safety first, then focus on documentation and notifying the right people.
- Call 911 if anyone is injured or the suspect may still be nearby; report the crime to police and get a file or report number.
- If safe, avoid touching or moving items; preserve evidence for police and insurance (photos, videos, a list of missing items).
- Contact your landlord quickly to report the break-in and request security repairs or lock changes.
- Document damage with time-stamped photos and a written record of what was taken or broken; keep receipts for any emergency purchases.
- If immediate repairs are needed to make the unit safe (windows, doors, locks), ask the landlord to fix them right away and set a reasonable deadline in writing.
What landlords must generally do in Saskatchewan
Landlords are usually responsible for maintaining locks, doors, windows, and common-area security so the rental unit is reasonably safe and habitable. If a break-in causes damage that affects habitability or security, the landlord should arrange repairs and, if necessary, replace locks or fix doors. Tenants can refer to the Office of Residential Tenancies for provincial procedures and dispute resolution options [1] and to the Residential Tenancies Act for the legal framework governing repairs and landlord duties [2]. For a general refresher on mutual responsibilities after signing a lease, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
Security, locks and repairs
When security is compromised, speed matters. Landlords should arrange qualified repairs or lock changes quickly. If the landlord delays, tenants should follow documented steps before arranging fixes themselves.
- Ask the landlord in writing to change or rekey locks and repair doors or windows; include a reasonable deadline (for example, within 48 hours for an urgent security issue).
- If the landlord does not respond, send a follow-up written notice that you will seek help from the Office of Residential Tenancies or arrange the repair yourself and keep receipts.
- Keep copies of all messages, photos, invoices and receipts as evidence in case you need to request compensation or dispute handling.
- For urgent safety repairs, consider contacting local emergency maintenance services; save receipts to support any later claim against the landlord.
Evidence, insurance and personal property
Documenting losses and damage helps police, insurance claims, and any tenancy dispute. Take clear photos, list missing or damaged items, and keep the police report and receipts together. Tenant contents insurance often covers theft and can help replace personal property; notify your insurer as soon as possible.
- Collect the police report number, photos, and a dated inventory of stolen or damaged items.
- Notify your renter's insurance provider and provide copies of the police report and photos to support a claim.
Filing a complaint or application with the Office of Residential Tenancies
If the landlord fails to secure the property or carry out repairs you consider urgent, you can apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies for dispute resolution. Common forms or filings include an application to request an order for repairs or compensation; check the Office of Residential Tenancies website for the exact form names and submission instructions[1]. For example, a tenant might submit an application asking the board to order the landlord to change locks and reimburse costs for emergency repairs, with supporting photos and receipts.
Before applying, gather the police report, written notices to your landlord, evidence of damage, and any repair invoices. If you need immediate help with emergency repairs and the landlord refuses, the Office can explain whether a formal application is appropriate.
For guidance on handling urgent repairs and tenant rights during emergency situations, see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.
FAQ
- Who is responsible for changing locks after a break-in?
- Landlords are typically responsible for changing or repairing locks to keep the unit secure; tenants should request repairs in writing and can seek help from the Office of Residential Tenancies if the landlord does not act.
- Can I pay to repair locks myself and deduct the cost from rent?
- Do not deduct rent without following provincial procedures. Instead, document the landlord's failure to act, keep receipts for any emergency repairs you pay for, and consider applying to the Office of Residential Tenancies for compensation or an order.
- What official documents should I collect after a break-in?
- Collect the police report number, time-stamped photos, a dated inventory of missing or damaged items, communication records with the landlord, and invoices or receipts for any emergency expenses.
How-To
- Ensure personal safety and call 911 if needed; file a police report and get the report number.
- Document the scene with photos and a written inventory of missing or damaged items.
- Notify your landlord in writing immediately and request urgent security repairs or lock changes.
- If the landlord does not act, gather evidence and consider filing an application with the Office of Residential Tenancies.
- Contact your renter's insurance provider with the police report and documentation to start any claims process.
Key Takeaways
- Document everything: police report, photos, communications and receipts protect your rights and support claims.
- Landlords should secure and repair entry points quickly; contact the Office of Residential Tenancies if they do not.
- Seek help from police, your insurer, and provincial tenancy services to resolve safety and repair issues.
Help and Support / Resources
- Office of Residential Tenancies - Government of Saskatchewan
- Victim Services and supports - Government of Saskatchewan
