Calculating Rent Arrears in Saskatchewan Evictions

If you27re a tenant in Saskatchewan facing unpaid rent or an eviction notice, understanding how rent arrears are calculated helps you respond confidently and protect your rights. This guide explains the basic math landlords commonly use, what charges can lawfully be added, and the documents you should gather as evidence. It also outlines practical steps to dispute an incorrect arrears claim, where to find official forms and file an application, and how deadlines affect your options. Use this plain-language resource to check receipts, confirm dates, and prepare a clear record before contacting your landlord or the Office of Residential Tenancies for help.^[1]

How rent arrears are calculated

Arrears usually equal the unpaid rent for each period plus any additional lawful charges specified in your lease. To calculate arrears you need the rent amount, the due date(s), payments received, and any allowed fees. Different landlords and leases may handle partial payments differently, so create a simple ledger showing each due date, how much was paid, and the remaining balance.

Basic calculation steps

• Monthly rent amount multiplied by number of unpaid months or pro-rated days.
• Subtract any payments the landlord has recorded as received.
• Add lawful charges only if your lease and law permit them (for example, returned cheque fees when allowed).
• Include documented credits, agreed payment plans, or landlord receipts that reduce the balance.

Example: if rent is $1,200 monthly and you missed one full month and owe half of the next month, arrears would be $1,200 + $600 = $1,800, minus any payments already made. Keep a clear record showing dates and amounts to avoid disputes.

What counts as a lawful charge?

Not every fee a landlord lists is automatically collectible. Charges must be permitted by the lease and not illegal under Saskatchewan27s tenancy rules. Common legitimate items are unpaid rent and specific, reasonable returned-cheque fees if stated in the agreement. Always check the Residential Tenancies Act and ask the Office of Residential Tenancies about allowed charges before paying disputed amounts.^[2]

Responding when you receive a Notice for Non-Payment

If you receive an eviction or termination notice for non-payment, act quickly: review the notice, compare it to your records, and reach out to your landlord to confirm amounts and timelines. If you disagree, gather supporting documents and consider applying to the Office of Residential Tenancies to dispute the claim or ask for more time.

Documents to gather

• Signed lease or rental agreement showing rent amount and due dates.
• Bank records, e-transfers, or receipts proving payments.
• Any written notices from your landlord about arrears, offers, or payment plans.
• Notes of conversations (date, time, who you spoke with) and contact attempts.

FAQ

How do I check that my landlord27s arrears calculation is correct?

Compare their ledger to your lease and payment records, verify dates and amounts, and get written clarification from the landlord if something looks wrong.

Can a landlord add late fees or interest to rent arrears?

Only charges allowed by your lease and provincial rules can be added. If you27re unsure, consult the Office of Residential Tenancies or the Residential Tenancies Act for guidance.^[2]

What should I do if I disagree with a notice to end tenancy for non-payment?

Gather payment evidence, contact your landlord to try to resolve the issue, and if needed file an application with the Office of Residential Tenancies to dispute the eviction or request a hearing.^[1]

How-To

1. Collect your lease, rent receipts, bank statements, e-transfer records, and any written messages about payments.
2. List rent due dates and mark payments received to determine the exact unpaid periods.
3. Calculate unpaid rent by adding full months and pro-rating days when needed to produce a single arrears total.
4. Add only lawful additional charges and subtract any landlord-acknowledged credits or partial payments.
5. Contact your landlord in writing to confirm the balance and propose a payment plan if you can pay in installments.
6. If the dispute continues, file an application with the Office of Residential Tenancies and prepare copies of all documents for the hearing.^[1]

Help and Support / Resources

• Office of Residential Tenancies, Government of Saskatchewan
• Saskatchewan: Renting and evictions information
• Residential Tenancies Act (Saskatchewan information)

1. [1] Office of Residential Tenancies, Government of Saskatchewan
2. [2] Residential Tenancies Act (Saskatchewan information)
3. [3] Official tenancy forms and notices, Government of Saskatchewan