If you're a tenant in Saskatchewan worried about missing rent payments, it's important to understand your rights and the process landlords must follow. Saskatchewan tenancy law outlines what happens when rent is not paid, the official steps for eviction, and how you may be able to resolve the situation to stay in your home.
Can You Be Evicted for Not Paying Rent in Saskatchewan?
Yes, a landlord in Saskatchewan can evict a tenant for non-payment of rent. However, they must follow the legal steps set out in the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT), using rules outlined by the The Residential Tenancies Act, 20061. As a tenant, you are protected from illegal or immediate eviction—you have rights and notice periods that your landlord must respect.
How Much Notice Does a Landlord Need to Give?
If you have not paid your rent on time, your landlord can serve you a notice for unpaid rent. In Saskatchewan, your landlord may give you a 14-day Notice to Vacate for Non-Payment of Rent after you are late paying rent.
The notice must:
- Be in writing
- State the amount of rent owed and the due date
- Give you at least 14 days to either pay the arrears or move out
If you pay the full rent owing within those 14 days, the notice becomes void and you cannot be evicted for that particular missed payment.
The Legal Eviction Process
Eviction for non-payment of rent is a legal process. This means your landlord cannot change your locks, remove your belongings, or otherwise force you to leave without going through the proper tribunal and serving the correct legal forms.
Common Steps if You Miss Rent
- Your rent is late (even by one day).
- Your landlord may provide a written 14-day Notice for Unpaid Rent.
- If you pay in full within 14 days, the process stops.
- If you do not pay, the landlord can apply to the ORT for an Order of Possession to legally evict you.
- The ORT will set a hearing to review the case and decide whether eviction should proceed.
To better understand your responsibilities around paying rent, see the Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.
Official Forms Used for Eviction Due to Non-Payment
- 14-Day Notice of Eviction for Non-Payment of Rent: This is the most common written notice a landlord gives for unpaid rent. It must specify the amount due and give at least 14 days' notice. A sample form and requirements are available from the Saskatchewan government – Notices page.
Example: If your rent was due on the 1st but remains unpaid on the 2nd, your landlord could serve you this notice on the 2nd, giving you until day 16 to pay or move. - Application for Order of Possession (Form 7): If you do not pay the arrears or move out after receiving the notice, your landlord may make an application to the ORT using "Form 7: Application for an Order of Possession". You can view and respond to this process via the Saskatchewan ORT Application Portal.
Be sure to review all forms carefully and respond promptly, as failing to reply can result in the order being granted without your side being heard.
Your Options if You Receive a Notice or Application
- Pay the rent owed in full within the notice period
- Discuss a payment plan with your landlord (get it in writing)
- File a dispute if you believe the notice is incorrect through the ORT
- Seek legal or advocacy help if you feel your rights aren’t respected
How the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) Can Help
The Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) is the tribunal responsible for hearing eviction applications, disputes about unpaid rent, and other tenancy matters in Saskatchewan.
The ORT can issue legally binding decisions and help both tenants and landlords resolve conflicts fairly.
For more information about tenancy rights in Saskatchewan, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.
Know Your Rights and Responsibilities
Your rental agreement and provincial law outline your payment obligations, as well as your protections against improper eviction. It's helpful to review the Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained to understand your ongoing duties as a tenant.
Want more ways to find your next home or compare rentals? Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings and see what’s available in your area.
FAQ: Eviction for Non-Payment of Rent in Saskatchewan
- Can I stop an eviction if I pay my rent after getting a notice?
Yes, if you pay the full amount owing within the 14-day notice period, the eviction process for that missed rent will usually stop. - Will I get a formal hearing before being evicted for non-payment?
Yes, if your landlord applies to the ORT for an eviction order, you are entitled to notice of the hearing and an opportunity to present your side. - Do partial payments stop eviction for unpaid rent?
No, only full payment of all outstanding rent (and possibly late fees, if legal and specified in your agreement) will stop the eviction process. - Can my landlord evict me without going to the Office of Residential Tenancies?
No, "self-help" evictions (e.g., landlord changing locks or physically removing you) are illegal. Only the ORT can order an eviction. - What if I can't pay or reach an agreement?
If you can't pay or reach a settlement, attending your ORT hearing is important. You may present your case, but if the order is granted, you will need to move out by the date specified.
Summary: What Tenants Should Remember
- You cannot be evicted for non-payment of rent in Saskatchewan without written notice and due process.
- If you pay in full within the notice period, you can usually prevent eviction for that missed payment.
- Seek help right away if you receive an eviction notice or cannot pay your rent.
Understanding these steps will help you make informed decisions and protect your rights in a challenging situation.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) – Saskatchewan: File applications, find forms, and get updates on your case.
- Saskatchewan Residential Tenancies Information: Provincial rules, forms, and legislative information for tenants and landlords.
- Local community legal clinics: Offer free or low-cost tenant support (search for “community legal clinics Saskatchewan”).
- Tenant advocacy organizations: Information and support on tenant rights and the eviction process.
