Dealing with Unsafe Balconies and Railings in Saskatchewan Rentals

If you're renting in Saskatchewan and notice that your balcony or railing is damaged or unsafe, it's important to know your rights and how to get these safety hazards addressed. Unsafe balconies and railings can pose serious risks—from accidental falls to failing building inspections—but Saskatchewan law protects tenants and outlines responsibilities for repairs and maintenance.

Understanding Safety Standards for Balconies and Railings

In Saskatchewan, every residential rental property must meet basic health and safety standards as set out in the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1] and municipal building codes. This includes ensuring that balconies and railings are secure, free from rot or structural damage, and meet height and spacing regulations.

• Railings must be an adequate height and firmly attached
• No loose, broken, or missing railing components
• Balcony surfaces should be stable and intact
• Stairs, decks, and walkways must also remain safe

Your safety is a legal priority, so any hazards should be taken seriously and reported promptly.

Who Is Responsible for Fixing Unsafe Balconies or Railings?

Landlords in Saskatchewan are legally required to ensure their rental properties remain safe and meet all building and safety standards at all times. If you spot an issue with a balcony or railing, it's the landlord's duty to address and repair it. Tenants, meanwhile, are responsible for reporting concerns in a timely manner and taking care not to cause additional damage.

For more on how landlords and tenants share responsibility, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Common Problems and Health Risks

• Loose or wobbly railings
• Cracked, rusted, or rotten wood/metal components
• Gaps that could allow a child or pet to fall through
• Collapsing or unstable balcony floors

How to Report Unsafe Balconies or Railings

Here’s how to take action if you identify an unsafe condition:

• Step 1: Notify your landlord in writing (email, text, or letter) with details about the hazard, the exact location, and—if possible—photos.
• Step 2: Give your landlord a reasonable period to fix the issue. For urgent safety repairs, this should be as soon as possible—often within 24 to 48 hours.
• Step 3: Keep copies of your communication and document the problem for your records.

For urgent situations that pose immediate risk to safety, special rules apply. See Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities for more details on emergency repairs.

What If the Landlord Doesn't Fix the Issue?

If your landlord fails to address unsafe balconies or railings after you’ve given proper notice, you can take further steps through the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT), the provincial tribunal responsible for rental disputes. Learn more at the Office of Residential Tenancies website.

• Apply to the ORT using the appropriate form (see below)
• Request an order for repairs or compensation if the issue is not resolved

Never withhold rent as a solution—this can put you at risk of eviction. If you are unsure, contact the ORT for guidance.

Applicable Forms for Tenants

• Application for Repairs (Form 7a): Use this if your landlord has not fixed safety hazards after written notice. Download it from the official ORT website. Example: If you reported a loose railing and it remains unrepaired for weeks, submit Form 7a to request a formal order.

Always attach evidence: your written requests, any correspondence, and clear photographs of the unsafe condition.

What Saskatchewan’s Tenant Law Says

The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 requires landlords to keep properties in a good state of repair and meet safety standards at all times. This includes balconies, decks, and all structural elements related to your home.

For a broader overview of provincial rental laws, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

Initial Inspections and Ongoing Maintenance

Tenants are encouraged to participate in the initial property inspection (before or shortly after moving in) to note the condition of balconies and railings. For details, read Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

Routine checks and communication during your tenancy help prevent long-term problems and can support your case if disputes arise.

If you’re searching for a new place with safer amenities, Browse apartments for rent in Canada with updated listings and quality filters.

FAQ: Unsafe Balconies and Railings in Saskatchewan Rentals

1. What counts as an "unsafe" balcony or railing?
   Hazards include any loose, missing, or broken railings, unstable balcony floors, or gaps that compromise safety. Anything that could cause injury or does not meet code requirements is unsafe.
2. Can I refuse to use a balcony if I think it's unsafe?
   Yes, tenants should avoid using any balcony or railing that appears dangerous and should notify the landlord in writing right away.
3. How long does a landlord have to fix an unsafe railing?
   For urgent repairs that affect safety, landlords must act promptly—usually within 24 to 48 hours after being notified.
4. What should I do if my landlord ignores repair requests?
   If the landlord fails to make repairs after written notice, you can apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies for a repair order using Form 7a.
5. Will the ORT charge a fee to apply for repairs?
   Yes, the Office of Residential Tenancies charges a small application fee, but it may be refunded or passed on to the landlord if your application is successful.

Key Takeaways

• Landlords are responsible for repairing unsafe balconies and railings in Saskatchewan rentals.
• Tenants must report hazards promptly and keep written records.
• If repairs are delayed or ignored, you have a right to seek help through the Office of Residential Tenancies.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): Official Website • (306) 787-2699 • orr@gov.sk.ca
• Tenants’ Rights Information: See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan
• Forms/Applications: Rental Forms and Guides
• Health and safety questions? Contact your local Public Health Office or Saskatchewan's HealthLine by dialing 8-1-1

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1. [1] Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)

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