Eviction for Renovations in Saskatchewan: Tenant Rights Explained

If you’re renting in Saskatchewan and have received notice of eviction due to renovations, you may feel uncertain and anxious about your next steps. Understanding your rights as a tenant is essential. In Saskatchewan, there are clear legal requirements landlords must follow when ending a tenancy for renovations or repairs. This article explains what eviction for renovations means, what protections tenants have, and what you can do if your landlord gives you notice.

What Does 'Eviction for Renovations' Mean in Saskatchewan?

A landlord may wish to end a tenancy to conduct significant renovations or repairs that require the unit to be vacant. However, the law does not allow a landlord to evict tenants for cosmetic upgrades or minor work. Eviction for renovations only applies if the work is so extensive that the tenant cannot live safely in the unit while it is being done.

In Saskatchewan, landlords must comply with the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT), which administers provincial rental laws and resolves disputes.^[1]

Your Legal Protections Under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)

As a tenant, your rights are protected by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.^[2] This legislation outlines the proper procedures landlords must follow, including giving the correct notice and proving the need for eviction.

• Proper Notice: Your landlord must give you written notice of termination at least two months before the date you must leave if the tenancy is a month-to-month agreement. The notice must state the reason (i.e., major renovations or repairs).
• Reason for Eviction: The eviction must be for extensive renovations, not just routine repairs. Landlords cannot terminate your tenancy for superficial upgrades.
• Written Proof: Landlords should be able to provide evidence that the planned work is necessary and will require the unit to be vacant.
• Right to Dispute: You have the right to challenge the eviction by applying to the ORT for a hearing if you believe the landlord’s reasons are not valid.

For a detailed breakdown of tenant and landlord obligations in Saskatchewan, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

Notice to Terminate Tenancy for Renovations – Forms and Process

When a landlord wants to evict a tenant for major renovations, they must use an approved form:

• Form Name: Two Months’ Notice to Terminate Tenancy for Major Repairs or Renovations
• Where to get it: Download from the Government of Saskatchewan Residential Tenancies Forms page.

When and how it’s used: Your landlord must serve this notice at least two months before your tenancy ends. The notice should include the type of renovations or repairs planned and the anticipated impact. For example, if your landlord needs to replace plumbing and walls throughout your apartment, making it unsafe to stay, they would use this form.

If you feel the notice is unfair, incorrect, or you doubt the landlord truly needs you to move out, you can file an application with the Office of Residential Tenancies before your move-out date to dispute the eviction.

Action Steps: What to Do If You Receive an Eviction Notice for Renovations

• Read the Notice Carefully: Check that it includes the correct amount of notice (two months) and specifies the reason.
• Keep a Copy: Store the notice for your records.
• Ask for Details: You may request documentation about the planned renovations from your landlord.
• Dispute the Notice (if needed): If you disagree, you can file an application with the ORT before you must move out. Follow this process:

1. Visit the Office of Residential Tenancies website
2. Choose the appropriate application form ("Application by Tenant for an Order")
3. Fill out the form; clearly explain why you’re disputing the notice
4. Submit the form as instructed on the ORT website
5. Prepare for a hearing if necessary

Your Right to Return After Renovations?

In Saskatchewan, there is no automatic right for tenants to return to their unit once major renovations are complete. However, you may ask your landlord if you can move back in after the work, but the landlord is not legally obligated to offer the unit to the previous tenant.

Other Issues During the Process

When renovations are required due to health or safety concerns, your landlord must communicate this clearly. Learn more about Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting if unsafe conditions are involved.

For other common rental challenges, check out Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

If you’re looking for a new place because of an eviction or upcoming renovations, Browse apartments for rent in Canada using Canada’s best rental listings platform.

FAQs: Eviction for Renovations in Saskatchewan

1. Can my landlord evict me for renovations at any time?
   No, the landlord can only end your tenancy for renovations if the work requires the rental unit to be vacant and must give you at least two months’ written notice.
2. What if I believe the eviction notice is not genuine?
   You can dispute the notice by applying to the Office of Residential Tenancies before the move-out date.
3. Am I entitled to move back after renovations?
   There is no legal right to return, but you can ask your landlord if the unit will be available after renovations are done.
4. What should the eviction notice include?
   The notice must specify the reason for eviction, type of renovations planned, and give at least two months’ notice.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tenants Facing Renovation Eviction

• Saskatchewan law protects tenants from eviction except for major renovations that require the unit to be vacant.
• Your landlord must provide at least two months’ written notice using the correct form.
• You have the right to dispute eviction through the Office of Residential Tenancies.

If you need more information, Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan offers further guidance.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): File applications, dispute notices, and access forms
• Government of Saskatchewan: Renting and Leasing: Guides, legislation, rights, and forms
• Local Tenant Advocacy Groups: Saskatchewan Tenants Rights may provide advice and support in your city

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1. Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT)
2. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)

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