Annual Rent Increase Guideline in Saskatchewan: What Tenants Need to Know
If you're renting in Saskatchewan, understanding how much your landlord can increase your rent—and when—is vital for financial planning and peace of mind. The province's rental laws provide specific rules and notice requirements around annual rent increases. This article will explain Saskatchewan's guidelines for rent increases, your rights as a tenant, and what steps you can take if you receive a notice you feel is unfair.
Who Sets the Rent Increase Guideline in Saskatchewan?
Unlike some provinces, Saskatchewan does not have a fixed annual rent increase guideline set by the government. Instead, rent increases are governed by the Saskatchewan Residential Tenancies Act, 2006[1]. Landlords may raise rent by any amount, as long as they follow the correct notice periods and legal processes. However, if you find an increase to be unreasonable, the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) can review and possibly adjust it.
Saskatchewan Rent Increase Rules for 2024
In Saskatchewan:
- There is no maximum percentage or dollar amount for rent increases.
- Landlords must give at least 12 months between rent increases unless the rental agreement specifies otherwise.
- Proper written notice is required: 12 months for periodic (month-to-month) tenancies, or as stated in your fixed-term lease.
- Rent cannot be increased during the first year of tenancy.
This means, for example, if your landlord raised your rent in May 2023, they cannot do so again until at least May 2024. If you're unsure about notice timing, you can refer to our Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know page for more details on the general process, which applies in many provinces.
Notice Requirements: How and When Must Rent Increases Be Given?
Your landlord must provide a written notice with the following details:
- The amount of the increase
- The date the new rent takes effect
- Your address and other identifying information
The notice must be given at least 12 months before the increase for periodic (e.g., month-to-month) tenancies. For fixed-term agreements, rent increases are typically addressed at lease renewal. Check your lease for specific details, or learn more about your Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.
What to Do If You Receive a Rent Increase
If you receive a written rent increase notice, here are practical steps to take:
- Check that the notice is in writing, includes all required information, and follows the 12-month notice rule.
- Review your lease to make sure the increase follows your rental agreement’s terms.
- If you believe the increase is unreasonable or does not follow legislation, you can dispute it.
For tenants looking for the next step after receiving a rental notice, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement for helpful guidance.
If you believe your rent increase is unfair, contact the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) promptly. You have the right to request a review before the increase takes effect.
Official Forms for Tenants
If you want to dispute a rent increase or raise a tenancy issue, the main form used is:
- Application for Resolution (Form 5)
When and How to Use It:
- Use Form 5 if you believe your rent increase is unreasonable or your landlord has not followed the required process.
- Fill out the application, attach supporting documents (such as the rent increase notice), and submit to the ORT.
- Download the form, along with filing instructions, from the Government of Saskatchewan – Office of Residential Tenancies Forms.
For more information about responsibilities related to paying rent, check out our Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.
Which Tribunal or Board Handles Rent Increases?
All tenant-landlord matters in Saskatchewan, including rent increase disputes, are handled by the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT). You can contact them online, by phone, or in person for support and to submit forms.
Relevant Legislation
All Saskatchewan tenancy laws, including rent increases, are covered by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006. This act outlines landlord and tenant rights, notice periods, and the process for disputes.
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- Can my landlord raise my rent by any amount in Saskatchewan?
Your landlord can propose any rent amount increase, but it must be done with at least 12 months' written notice and cannot occur within the first year of your tenancy. You may challenge excessive or unfair increases through the Office of Residential Tenancies. - How much notice does my landlord have to give for a rent increase?
For month-to-month or periodic leases, landlords must give at least 12 months' written notice before the rent increase takes effect. - What should I do if I think my rent increase is unfair?
If you think your rent increase is too high or doesn't follow notice rules, file an Application for Resolution (Form 5) with the ORT before the new rent takes effect. - Where can I find official forms for disputing a rent increase?
Official forms are available on the Government of Saskatchewan – Office of Residential Tenancies website. - Is there a limit on how often my landlord can increase my rent?
There must be at least 12 months between rent increases, and no increase is allowed in the first year of your tenancy.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Saskatchewan Tenants
- Saskatchewan doesn’t have a set annual rent increase guideline, but strict notice rules apply.
- Landlords must give at least 12 months’ written notice and cannot increase rent during the first year.
- Disputes about the amount or timing of a rent increase are handled by the Office of Residential Tenancies. Use Form 5 if you need to challenge a rent increase.
For a broader overview of rights in your province, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): Saskatchewan’s agency for resolving landlord-tenant disputes, filing forms, and getting advice.
- Government of Saskatchewan: Renting and Leasing Overview
- Local tenant advocacy groups and community legal clinics can offer guidance and, in some cases, representation; check your nearest community legal resource.
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Bob Jones
Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada
Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.
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