Do Saskatchewan Tenants Have a Right to Internet Access?

As more Canadians rely on the internet for work, study, and daily life, questions often arise about whether tenants have a guaranteed right to internet when renting a property in Saskatchewan. Understanding who is responsible for internet access—landlord or tenant—can help renters make informed decisions and avoid common disputes during their tenancy. This guide clarifies your rights, explains current Saskatchewan laws, and offers practical steps if internet access becomes an issue.

Is Internet Considered an Essential Service in Saskatchewan Rentals?

In Saskatchewan, internet is not considered an essential service under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1]. Essential services are typically defined as water, heat, and electricity. There is currently no provincial legislation that obligates landlords to provide internet service as a condition of a rental agreement.

What Does the Law Say About Utilities and Services?

The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 governs landlord and tenant relationships in Saskatchewan. It lists minimum facility requirements and outlines responsibilities regarding utilities. Unless your written lease specifically includes internet as part of your utilities, the landlord is generally not required to provide it. Internet will only be a landlord responsibility if it is promised in your lease agreement.

Who Is Responsible for Setting Up and Paying for Internet?

In most cases, tenants are responsible for arranging and paying for their own internet access. If the property comes with internet already installed (such as in some student housing or furnished suites), this should be clearly stated in your lease.

• If internet is included in the rent, the landlord retains responsibility for payment and access.
• If internet is not mentioned in your lease, the tenant must set up and pay for internet independently.

If you encounter disagreements about service setup, refer to the written lease and discuss your concerns with your landlord. For a full overview of shared responsibilities, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Special Situations: Shared Internet and Multiple Tenants

If you are renting with roommates or in a building with shared internet, clarify who is managing the account and what happens if service is disrupted. For privacy and service reliability, it’s best to have clear written agreements among all parties.

What If There Are Health or Safety Concerns?

Lack of internet is generally not considered a health or safety issue under Saskatchewan law. However, if you have broader health, safety, or habitability concerns, you may benefit from reading Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Disputes and Contacting the Provincial Tribunal

If you believe your landlord has breached the rental agreement—for example, by failing to provide internet if it was included in your lease—you have the right to file a complaint with the Office of Residential Tenancies (Saskatchewan).

For official disputes, tenants may use the following form:

• Form: Application for an Order of the Director of Residential Tenancies – This form is used to resolve disputes including disagreement over utilities or services promised in the lease. Access the form on the Government of Saskatchewan's official website.
  Example: A tenant can use this application if their lease states internet is included, but the landlord stops paying for the service.

The tribunal will review your case and make a determination based on the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.

Legislation Governing Tenancies in Saskatchewan

• Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)

For more about your tenant rights in the province, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

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FAQs for Tenants About Internet in Saskatchewan Rentals

1. Do landlords in Saskatchewan have to provide internet?
   No, unless internet is specifically included in your lease agreement, landlords are not required by law to provide internet in Saskatchewan.
2. Can a landlord cut off my internet service?
   If your lease states that internet is included, the landlord cannot lawfully remove the service without your consent. Otherwise, control over the account is your responsibility.
3. What should I do if I pay for internet but lose access because of a landlord issue?
   Try to resolve the issue directly with your landlord. If unresolved and the service was included in your tenancy agreement, file an application with the Office of Residential Tenancies.
4. Are landlords allowed to restrict the type of internet I get?
   Generally, you are free to set up the provider and package you want, as long as installation does not damage the property or violate rules agreed upon in your lease.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Internet is not a required essential service in Saskatchewan rentals unless stated in your lease.
• Review and clarify utility and service arrangements before signing a lease.
• Use the official tribunal process if you have disputes over internet provisions promised in your agreement.

Always stay informed—clear communication and understanding your agreement are key to a smooth rental experience.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (Saskatchewan) – File applications and read provincial guidance.
• Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (full text)
• Contact local tenant advocacy groups for advice if communication with your landlord breaks down.
• For broader tenant rights and responsibilities, visit the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan page.

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1. "Residential Tenancies Act, 2006" – Official government legislation
2. "Office of Residential Tenancies (Saskatchewan)" – Dispute and complaint resolution

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