If you were evicted after experiencing domestic violence in Saskatchewan, you can still access housing support, safety planning and legal remedies. This guide explains practical next steps for tenants and renters: how to document incidents, where to find emergency shelter, which official forms and tribunal contacts to use, and how to protect deposits and rental history. You will learn how to apply to the provincial tenancy office for dispute resolution, what evidence helps in hearings, and ways to find short-term and longer-term housing. The language is plain and the steps are written for people who are new to tenancy law, so you can act quickly and protect your rights while prioritizing safety.
Immediate steps after eviction
Take actions that protect your safety and preserve evidence. Begin by securing safe shelter, notifying crisis supports, and collecting records that show domestic violence affected your tenancy.
- Call emergency services or a local crisis line for immediate safety and shelter.
- Document dates, times and witnesses; keep photos, screenshots and receipts.
- Arrange temporary accommodation and plan moving logistics carefully to protect belongings and privacy.
- Change locks if you can and inform relevant agencies about safety concerns.
Understanding your legal options
Saskatchewan tenants can apply to the provincial tenancy authority for dispute resolution or ask for emergency orders if eviction harmed safety or was related to domestic violence. The Office of Residential Tenancies handles applications and hearings for tenancy disputes[1]. The provincial Residential Tenancies Act governs what can and cannot be done by landlords and tenants, including eviction rules and tenant remedies[3].
Official forms and when to use them
Key forms are available from the provincial tenancy office and should be submitted as instructed. Examples below explain when to use each and include a link to the official forms page[2].
- Application for Dispute Resolution (used to ask the tenancy office to review an eviction or issue orders): file this if you were evicted and believe the eviction was unfair due to domestic violence, and attach supporting documents like police reports.
- Notice to Terminate Tenancy (used by landlords to end a tenancy): review the notice to check reasons and dates and use an application to challenge it if process was not followed.
- Security deposit claim forms (to recover a deposit or dispute unlawful deductions): submit with photos, an inventory and proof of payments and explain why deductions are improper.
Finding housing after eviction
Start a housing search as soon as you have immediate safety in place. Look for short-term shelter, transitional housing and private rentals while you pursue hearings or applications. You can also use online platforms to find listings quickly; for a nationwide searchable option, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
- Check eligibility for rent-geared-to-income or emergency housing with local social services.
- If you left early or had to break a lease because of safety concerns, review how to end your tenancy safely in our guidance: What to Do If You Need to Leave Your Rental Before the Lease Expires.
- Protect your deposit: learn how deposits work and actions to recover them: Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
Preparing evidence for hearings
Organize a clear timeline, photos, text messages, police or medical reports, witness statements and rent receipts. Present copies to the tribunal and keep originals safe. You can ask the tenancy office for guidance on submitting documents and requesting adjournments if you need more time.
FAQ
- Can I get my security deposit back after an eviction related to domestic violence?
- Yes, you may apply to the tenancy office to recover a deposit if deductions were improper; provide proof of condition and payments.
- What if I missed a hearing because I was in a shelter or unsafe situation?
- Ask the tribunal for an adjournment and explain why you missed the date; provide supporting documentation like shelter intake confirmation or police reports.
- Will an eviction for domestic violence always hurt my future housing chances?
- Not always; detailed documentation and tribunal outcomes that rule in your favour can limit negative effects and help when explaining circumstances to future landlords.
How-To
- Secure immediate safety: call emergency services or a crisis line and find temporary shelter.
- Collect and preserve evidence: take photos, save messages and get copies of police or medical reports.
- File the correct tenancy office form (Application for Dispute Resolution) and submit supporting documents.
- Attend the hearing or request an adjournment; present your timeline and witnesses calmly and clearly.
- Search for housing while your case proceeds: apply to shelters, look at subsidized units, and plan your move.
Help and Support / Resources
- Saskatchewan - Housing and renting
- Office of Residential Tenancies - forms & resources
- Domestic violence supports - Government of Saskatchewan
