Employer-Provided Housing: Tenant Rights in Saskatchewan

Many employees in Saskatchewan live in employer-provided housing—sometimes called 'staff housing' or 'work camp accommodations.' If you live in housing your employer supplies due to your job, understanding your rights is essential. This article explains your protections, key forms, and where to seek help, based on Saskatchewan's latest tenancy laws.

When Employer-Provided Housing Is Covered by Saskatchewan Law

In Saskatchewan, the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1] governs most rental agreements, including many employer-provided homes. However, housing tied directly to certain jobs (like farmhands, caretakers, or live-in staff) may be exempt if living there is essential to your work. If your home is part of your job's compensation or your presence is required for your duties, special rules can apply. Always verify with your employer or the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT).

Your Basic Rights and Responsibilities

As a tenant, you have rights to a safe, healthy home—no matter who owns it. Your employer (acting as landlord) must:

• Ensure the property is fit to live in (safe structure, plumbing, heating, etc.)
• Handle major repairs (unless otherwise stated legally)
• Respect your privacy and give proper notice to enter your unit
• Follow the eviction process if asking you to move out

You are responsible for:

• Paying rent on time (even if deducted from your pay)
• Not damaging the property (beyond normal wear and tear)
• Not disturbing others' enjoyment of the premises

For a more detailed breakdown, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Deposits and Initial Inspections

Your employer may require a security deposit, just as in typical rentals. In Saskatchewan, the deposit cannot be more than one month’s rent. Always request a written receipt and ensure an initial inspection takes place. Check out Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know for deposit rules, and review the process with Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

Ending Tenancy: Special Eviction Rules for Employer-Provided Housing

When your tenancy is tied to your job, your employer can only end your housing under certain circumstances. Usually, you must vacate if:

• Your employment ends
• You breach the rental agreement (e.g., cause serious damage)

The employer must serve a written Notice to Vacate. The notice must specify the reason and provide the correct amount of notice (generally one month unless you have lived in the unit for under a month, in which case the required notice is one week).

Required Forms and How to Use Them

• Form: Notice to Vacate (Employer Initiated)
  When used: If your employer asks you to move out (due to end of employment or other valid reasons), they must serve you this notice.
  Where to find it: Notice to Vacate Form (Government of Saskatchewan)
  Example: If your job ends on June 30, your employer might serve you a Notice to Vacate requiring you to leave housing by July 31.
• Form: Application for Hearing (Tenant Initiated)
  When used: If you feel an eviction notice is unfair, you have the right to dispute it by applying to the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT).
  Where to find it: Application for Hearing
  Example: If you think your employer is evicting you unfairly or not giving proper notice, fill out the Application for Hearing and submit it to the ORT to schedule a hearing.

Tip: If your housing is tied to your job but you've lived there for over two years, you may be entitled to extra notice or compensation. Contact the ORT for specific advice.

Health, Safety, and Repairs

Even in employer-provided housing, you are entitled to healthy living conditions. If conditions are unsafe or repairs are not made promptly, you can:

• Notify your employer/landlord in writing of any issues
• If not addressed, file a complaint with the Ort

For more on maintenance and your rights, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Key Differences from Standard Rentals

• Eviction rules may be stricter—ending your job can mean losing your home
• Rent is often deducted from your pay cheque
• If your housing is considered part of your compensation, different tax or employment rules might apply

Despite these differences, core tenant rights still apply. For more on Saskatchewan-wide protections, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

FAQ: Employer-Provided Housing in Saskatchewan

1. Can my employer evict me immediately after I lose my job?
   Typically, your employer must still provide the required notice (usually one month). Immediate eviction is only allowed under specific urgent circumstances, such as serious damage or safety violations.
2. What should I do if my employer refuses to return my security deposit?
   You can file an Application for Hearing with the ORT to resolve the issue. Keep any receipts and proof of payment.
3. Do regular tenant rights apply if I live in work-provided housing?
   In most cases, yes—unless your accommodation is fully exempt under Saskatchewan law. Always check your agreement or contact the ORT for details.
4. Who is responsible for repairs in staff housing?
   The employer/landlord must make major repairs and ensure your home is safe. Tenants are responsible for minor upkeep and damage caused by themselves.
5. Can I dispute an eviction notice from my employer?
   Yes. You have the right to a fair hearing before the ORT if you disagree with the notice or believe your rights are being violated.

Conclusion: What Saskatchewan Tenants Should Remember

• Your housing rights apply even if your employer is your landlord. Always get notices in writing.
• If you face issues, act quickly: gather evidence, use the right forms, and seek help from the ORT.
• Not sure about your situation? Contact the ORT or tenant support for guidance.

Staying informed helps ensure your home—and your rights—are protected.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): Handle landlord-tenant disputes and information, including forms and guides. Phone: 1-888-215-2222
• Saskatchewan Ministry of Justice – Renting and Leasing: Legislation, forms, and support.
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan: Comprehensive overview of provincial rules.
• Public Legal Education Association of Saskatchewan (PLEA): Free legal info and resources.

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1. Saskatchewan Residential Tenancies Act, 2006: View full legislation
2. Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): ORT Saskatchewan
3. Government of Saskatchewan – Notice Forms: Official Notices and Forms

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