As a tenant in Saskatchewan, you might wonder if receiving government assistance—like social assistance or disability support—can affect your ability to rent a home. This is a common concern for renters who rely on such support, and understanding your rights is crucial for a fair housing experience in Saskatchewan.
Understanding Discrimination Based on Income Assistance
In Saskatchewan, rental discrimination on the basis of source of income is generally not permitted. This means that landlords cannot refuse to rent to prospective tenants just because they receive social assistance, disability income, or other forms of government support. These protections are rooted in the Saskatchewan Human Rights Code, which prohibits discrimination when it comes to public services, including housing1.
What Counts As Discrimination?
A landlord may be discriminating if they:
- Refuse to consider your application based solely on the fact you receive social assistance.
- Set different rental terms or higher security deposits strictly because you’re on assistance.
- Advertise "no social assistance" or "working tenants only."
It's important to remember that landlords can ask for proof of income as part of the screening process, but they cannot treat you differently simply because your income is from assistance programs.
Your Legal Protections and Where to Go for Help
The authority that handles discrimination complaints in Saskatchewan is the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission (SHRC). If you feel you have been rejected, evicted, or treated unfairly because you receive assistance, you can file a complaint with the SHRC.
Relevant Legislation and Rental Law
- The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 is the main law governing landlord-tenant relations in Saskatchewan2.
- The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code protects tenants from discrimination, including based on "receipt of public assistance" as a prohibited ground.
Filing a Human Rights Complaint: How to Take Action
If you believe your application was unfairly rejected because of your assistance income:
- Document all communications and keep copies of rental ads and emails.
- File a complaint with the SHRC using their How to Make a Complaint portal.
- The process involves filling out the official complaint form detailing the alleged discrimination, providing evidence, and following up as directed by SHRC staff.
There is no specific form number; complaints are handled directly through the SHRC’s website or via their printable PDF form found on their site.
Practical Example
Suppose you apply for an apartment, and the landlord rejects your application, stating that they "do not accept social assistance tenants." This is likely a violation under the Human Rights Code in Saskatchewan. You would:
- Gather evidence of the rejection (e.g., emails or messages)
- Submit your evidence and details to the SHRC as soon as possible
- Wait for the SHRC to contact you for additional information and next steps
Other Important Issues When Entering a New Tenancy
Beyond discrimination, tenants should be aware of their rights and obligations after moving in. For example, understanding Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained can help ensure both you and your landlord comply with provincial laws throughout your tenancy.
Tenants receiving assistance might also have questions about rental deposits. For guidance on deposits—including maximum amounts, when they can be requested, and return timelines—review Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
Saskatchewan’s Rental Tribunal and Fact Resources
The Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) is Saskatchewan’s primary authority for landlord-tenant relationships, including disputes, evictions, and rental complaints.
For a complete overview of your provincial renter protections, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.
If you’re searching for a rental that meets your needs, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for a wide selection and helpful search tools.
Frequently Asked Questions for Tenants in Saskatchewan
- Can a landlord legally refuse my application if I receive disability or social assistance?
No. In Saskatchewan, refusing to rent to someone solely because they receive government assistance is likely considered discrimination under the Human Rights Code. - What should I do if I believe I was discriminated against during a rental application?
You should document what happened and file a complaint with the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission. They provide a straightforward process to submit your concerns. - Can a landlord set different rules or higher deposits for tenants on assistance?
No. Treating tenants differently based solely on their source of income, including demanding higher deposits or stricter terms, is not allowed. - Which authority should I contact for general rental complaints in Saskatchewan?
Contact the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) for issues such as repairs, notices, or disputes with your landlord.
Key Takeaways for Tenants
- Landlords in Saskatchewan cannot reject tenants for receiving government assistance.
- The Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission handles discrimination complaints, while the Residential Tenancies Office assists with rental disputes.
- Know your rights and document any suspected discrimination.
Understanding these protections can empower you to seek housing with confidence. Take notes and check the official government resources before signing a lease.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission: File discrimination complaints and get information on your rights.
- Residential Tenancies Office (RTO): Handles rental agreements, disputes, and tenancy law matters.
- Government of Saskatchewan – Renting and Leasing: Provincial resources, tenant guides, and housing initiatives.
- Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan: In-depth facts on tenant and landlord law in your province.
- Saskatchewan Human Rights Code: Read the full Saskatchewan Human Rights Code
- The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006: See the full Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
