Digital Privacy Rights for Tenants in Saskatchewan

As digital technology becomes more common in rental homes across Saskatchewan, it’s important for tenants to know where the line is drawn regarding privacy. From smart doorbells to security cameras and keyless entry systems, you have specific rights under Saskatchewan law to ensure your digital privacy is respected by your landlord. This article explains what is allowed, what’s not, and how you can take action if you feel there has been a digital overreach.

Your Right to Privacy in Your Rental Home

Every tenant in Saskatchewan is guaranteed a reasonable right to privacy inside their home. The key legislation that protects you is The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006. This law sets out how and when a landlord can access your unit, and addresses certain privacy expectations related to digital monitoring and surveillance.

Common Forms of Digital Overreach

Landlords sometimes use technology that may cross privacy boundaries, such as:

• Security cameras in or around your private space
• Smart locks or keyless entry systems with remote access
• Monitoring Wi-Fi or other smart appliances provided with the unit

While some of these technologies are legal when used for building security or fire safety, they must never intrude on your right to a private living space.

When Can a Landlord Use Cameras or Smart Devices?

Under Saskatchewan law, your landlord:

• CANNOT install cameras inside your unit or in any area used exclusively by you, such as a private balcony or patio.
• CAN install security cameras in common areas (like entryways or parking lots) for reasonable safety reasons, but should provide notice to all tenants.
• If using smart locks or entry systems, landlords must respect your right to access and must not use these tools to monitor your comings and goings beyond legitimate building security needs.

It's your right to ask your landlord about the purpose, use, and data handling of any digital device that could affect your privacy. If you feel uncomfortable, start by having a conversation and documenting all communications.

Legal Entry: Notice Is Still Needed

Even with smart locks, a landlord is still required to give written notice at least 24 hours before entering your unit, except in emergencies.^[1] Unauthorized access using digital entry is not allowed.

Tip: If you’re ever unsure about your landlord’s obligations, review the Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for helpful context and examples.

If Your Privacy Is Violated: How to Take Action

If you believe your digital privacy rights have been violated:

• Document the issue—take photos, screenshots, and notes of conversations
• Communicate your concerns with your landlord in writing
• If unresolved, you may file an application with the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT), Saskatchewan’s rental tribunal

You can use the "Application for Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) Hearing" form. Tenants should:

• Complete the form available from the official ORT forms page
• Attach your documentation and clearly describe the digital privacy issue
• Submit it online or to your nearest ORT office

Example:

If your landlord installs a camera inside your apartment, collect evidence, ask them to remove it in writing, and if unresolved, complete and submit the application form for an ORT hearing.

Relevant Legislation

Your rights are protected under The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006. Review Section 44 and 45 regarding entry and privacy. If you want an overview of tenant and landlord rules in your province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

How Digital Privacy Can Affect Your Rental Experience

Knowing your privacy rights gives you confidence and may help you build a better relationship with your landlord. Digital technologies can support your security, but they must not be used to monitor or invade your private life.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Digital Privacy in Saskatchewan Rentals

1. Can my landlord use smart locks or keypads to enter my unit without notice?
   No, Saskatchewan law requires your landlord to provide at least 24 hours' written notice before entering your rental unit, regardless of the entry method.
2. Is it legal for my landlord to install cameras in shared hallways?
   Yes, landlords may use cameras in common areas for safety, but never within your private rented space.
3. What can I do if I think my digital privacy has been violated?
   Document everything, communicate in writing with your landlord, and file a complaint to the Office of Residential Tenancies if the issue continues.
4. Does my landlord have to inform me if they install digital surveillance?
   Landlords should give tenants notice and information about any new surveillance systems in common or shared areas.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• You have strong legal protections against digital overreach by landlords in Saskatchewan.
• Landlords cannot use digital technology to monitor you inside your private living space.
• If your rights are breached, document and report the incident using official channels.

Understanding your digital privacy rights helps you maintain your safety and peace of mind while renting.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) – Saskatchewan’s official tribunal for rental issues
• Saskatchewan Renting and Leasing Portal – Info, forms, and help line
• City of Saskatoon – Protecting Tenants’ Privacy and Security
• For full rights, review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan
• Questions about rental agreement terms? See Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained

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1. The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, Saskatchewan – See Sections 44 and 45 (Entry and Privacy)
2. Office of Residential Tenancies – Official Tribunal
3. Application for Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) Hearing – Official Forms and How-To

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