How costs and compensation orders work
The Office of Residential Tenancies administers dispute resolution and issues orders for residential disputes in Saskatchewan. For official information see the Office of Residential Tenancies[1] and the governing law at the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006[2]. A compensation order is a binding decision that requires payment for specified losses, and the tribunal decides amounts based on the evidence and legal rules.
Common types of costs tenants can claim
- Unpaid rent or rent arrears when a landlord incorrectly credits or charges tenants.
- Essential repairs paid by the tenant because the landlord failed to act.
- Replacement or repair costs for damage beyond normal wear and tear.
- Moving or re-rental costs if you had to vacate because of landlord actions affecting habitability.
- Limited administrative or tribunal-allowed costs where statutes permit.
How to apply for a compensation order
- Complete the official application form (see forms list) and pay any filing fee as required.[3]
- Serve the landlord with your application and supporting documents within the required timelines.
- Gather evidence: photos, dated receipts, repair invoices, and communication logs to support each claim.
- Attend the hearing, present your evidence clearly, and answer the tribunal's questions.
- If the tribunal grants an order, follow instructions to collect or register it; in some cases you may need to use small claims or enforcement procedures.
For information about security deposits and how they affect claims, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know. For guidance on common dispute topics and practical steps, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.
If you need to look for a new rental while disputes proceed, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
FAQ
- What is a compensation order?
- A compensation order is a tribunal decision requiring payment to a tenant for losses such as unpaid rent refunds, repair costs, or damage compensation.
- How much can I claim?
- The amount depends on the evidence you provide and legal limits under the Residential Tenancies Act; the tribunal decides what is reasonable.
- Can I appeal a compensation order?
- Yes, there are limited appeal routes; follow the tribunal's directions and seek legal help quickly to meet appeal timelines.
How-To
- Find and complete the correct application form for the Office of Residential Tenancies.
- Collect and label evidence with dates and short notes explaining each item.
- Serve copies on the landlord according to the tribunal's rules.
- Attend the hearing and present your case calmly and clearly.
- If you win, follow the order instructions to collect the amount awarded.
Key Takeaways
- Document dates, costs and communications for every issue you plan to claim.
- Use the correct application form and serve papers on time to protect your case.
- The tribunal bases awards on evidence and applicable rules, not on emotion.
Help and Support / Resources
- Office of Residential Tenancies (hearing and forms)
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (statute)
- Government housing: landlord and tenant rights
