Domestic Violence Protections: Ending Leases Early in Saskatchewan

Experiencing domestic violence can create an unsafe living situation. Saskatchewan law recognizes this and offers specific protections for tenants who need to leave a rental home quickly and safely. If you are affected by domestic violence, you have the right to end your lease early—without penalty—when proper process is followed. This guide explains your rights, required steps, forms, and resources, helping you take action to ensure your safety and stability.

Understanding Your Rights: Tenancy and Domestic Violence in Saskatchewan

In Saskatchewan, the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) oversees residential landlord and tenant issues. The main law protecting tenants is the The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1]. Under recent amendments, tenants who are or may become victims of domestic violence can break their lease without financial penalty, provided they follow the correct procedure.

Who Qualifies for Early Termination Due to Domestic Violence?

• Any tenant (or their child) experiencing domestic violence or at risk of it
• Definition includes physical, emotional, psychological, or sexual abuse by a current or former spouse, partner, or close relative

This protection applies to all rental units covered by Saskatchewan's legislation—houses, apartments, rooms, and mobile homes.

How to End Your Lease Early: Domestic Violence Protocol

If you need to move out for your own safety, Saskatchewan law allows you to terminate your rental agreement with 28 days’ notice using the process outlined below.

Step 1: Obtain a Certificate from Victims Services

• Request a Certificate Confirming Grounds to Terminate a Tenancy in Special Circumstances (Form 1 in The Victims of Domestic Violence Regulations)
• Contact your local Victims Services Branch (official programs directory)
• Victims Services assesses your situation and issues the certificate

Step 2: Give Written Notice to Your Landlord

• Complete the Notice to Landlord to Terminate a Tenancy Agreement (Domestic Violence) (Form 12A)
• Attach the Victims Services certificate to this notice
• Deliver both documents to your landlord in person or by registered mail
• Your lease will legally end in 28 days from the day your landlord gets notice

For official form instructions, downloads, and contact information, visit the Saskatchewan government’s guide.

What Happens Next? Landlord and Tenant Responsibilities

Once proper notice is given, Saskatchewan law says:

• Tenants are not responsible for rent after the 28-day period
• Landlords cannot disclose the reason for lease termination to anyone else
• Co-tenants (if any) may request to maintain or end the tenancy separately

After You Leave: Addressing Health, Safety, and Your Next Steps

Your safety is always the top priority. If you have concerns about property condition or urgent repairs, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for additional protections. When moving out, it's a good idea to document the unit's condition to help recover your deposit and avoid disputes. For advice on planning your next steps, What to Do If You Need to Leave Your Rental Before the Lease Expires can help you understand your rights if you are leaving early for reasons like domestic violence.

You can also Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme, Canada’s all-in-one, map-based rental search platform.

For Saskatchewan-specific facts, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

Frequently Asked Questions: Domestic Violence and Lease Termination in Saskatchewan

1. Can any tenant in Saskatchewan break a lease early due to domestic violence?
   Yes. If you (or your child) are experiencing domestic violence, and you obtain a certificate from Victims Services, you have the legal right to end your tenancy early by following the required steps.
2. Will my landlord know the details of my situation?
   No. Your landlord only receives the required notice and Victims Services certificate. By law, they cannot ask for or share details about your experience with others.
3. How much notice do I have to give?
   Once you have the certificate, you must give your landlord at least 28 days’ written notice. This period starts as soon as your landlord receives the notice and certificate.
4. Can I use this process if my children are also at risk?
   Yes. The rules apply if you or your children are in danger or at risk due to domestic violence.
5. What happens to my security deposit when I move out?
   Your deposit should be returned according to normal rules, as long as there is no property damage or outstanding rent for the termination period. See Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know for more details.

Key Takeaways for Saskatchewan Tenants

• Tenants experiencing domestic violence have legal protection to end their lease early, penalty-free.
• Follow the process: obtain a Victims Services certificate, complete notice, and submit both to your landlord.
• Your safety and privacy are protected under Saskatchewan law—help is available.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) – Official dispute resolution and tenancy information (call 1-888-215-2222)
• Victims Services Saskatchewan – Apply for a domestic violence certificate, get support, and find your nearest office
• Government of Saskatchewan – Early Lease Termination for Domestic Violence
• Saskatchewan Tenants' Rights Hotline: 1-888-255-7257
• The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 – Full legislation text

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1. Saskatchewan – The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
2. Government of Saskatchewan – Ending Tenancy Because of Domestic Violence
3. Office of Residential Tenancies – Official Website

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