Eviction Rules Every Tenant Should Know in Saskatchewan

If you’re renting a home or apartment in Saskatchewan, it’s vital to understand how the eviction process works and how the law protects tenants. This tenant-focused guide covers eviction reasons, notice rules, your rights during the process, and practical steps you can take if you face eviction. We’ll also outline essential official resources and where to get help.

Key Eviction Rules and Tenant Rights in Saskatchewan

Most tenant evictions in Saskatchewan are governed by The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)^[1]. Disputes are managed by the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT).

In Saskatchewan, a landlord can only evict you for specific legal reasons and must follow set notice periods. Here’s what tenants need to know:

• Evictions must have a legal reason. These include unpaid rent, breach of agreement, property damage, or landlord’s personal use.
• Written notice is required: Verbal evictions aren’t legal. Your landlord must give you an official written notice stating the reason and move-out date.
• You have the right to dispute: If you feel the eviction is unfair or you weren’t given proper notice, you can challenge it through the ORT.

Common Reasons for Eviction

• Non-payment of rent
• Continuous late payment of rent
• Damaging the property
• Disturbing other tenants or illegal activity
• Landlord or their family moving in
• Extensive renovations or demolition

The notice period and forms required vary based on the reason for eviction. Let’s look at how the process works in detail.

Eviction Notice and Official Forms

Landlords in Saskatchewan use official ORT forms when giving notice to end a tenancy. As a tenant, it’s important to read and act promptly if you receive one. The two most common forms are:

• Notice to Vacate Form (Form 7A or 7B)
  
  • When used: If you haven’t paid rent, or if your landlord has another approved legal reason.
  • Notice required: Minimum 14 days for non-payment of rent; up to 1 month for other reasons depending on your lease type. Always check your notice for the specific period.
  • Find the form: Notice to Vacate Form (Form 7A PDF)
• Application for an Order of Possession (Form 6)
  
  • When used: If you don’t move out by the date in the notice, your landlord may apply to the ORT for a legal order to evict you. You will be informed and given a chance to respond.
  • Find the form: Application for an Order of Possession (Form 6)

If you receive an eviction notice, it’s important to act quickly. Check the date, read the reason, and consider seeking help immediately—even if you think the notice isn’t valid.

Disputing an Eviction Notice

• If you believe the notice is unfair or was not given properly, you have the right to file a response with the ORT before the move-out date.
• Attend your scheduled ORT hearing and bring all documentation (rent payment history, communications, photos).
• Decisions from the ORT are legally binding on both you and your landlord.

Your Rights and Options if Facing Eviction

It’s normal to feel anxious if you receive an eviction notice, but Saskatchewan law protects your right to fair and reasonable treatment.

Tenants have the right to:

• Request written reasons for eviction
• Dispute an eviction through the Office of Residential Tenancies
• Receive proper notice periods
• Remain in the unit until a legal eviction order is granted, unless you choose to leave early

Understanding your Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan can help you respond with confidence during this process.

What Happens If You Ignore a Notice

If you do not move out by the date given in the notice and do not dispute the eviction, your landlord can apply for an Order of Possession. The ORT will schedule a hearing, and you have the right to attend and present your side before any eviction is enforced.

Moving Out, Deposits, and Your Final Rights

When you leave a rental, you’re entitled to get back your security deposit (sometimes called a damage deposit), minus any lawful deductions. Proper final inspections and communication are key. For more details on getting your deposit back, see How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

For other issues that often happen alongside eviction (like rent payment disputes or notice periods), check out Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Looking for a new place after moving out? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to make your search safer and easier.

Frequently Asked Questions about Evictions in Saskatchewan

1. Can my landlord evict me without a written notice?
   No. A landlord in Saskatchewan must always provide a written notice that clearly states the reason and the move-out date.
2. How much notice does my landlord have to give for eviction?
   The notice period depends on the reason. For unpaid rent, it’s usually 14 days. For other causes, it can be 1 month or more, depending on your tenancy type.
3. Can I dispute an eviction notice?
   Yes. You can file a response with the Office of Residential Tenancies and attend a hearing to present your case.
4. What if I move out before the notice period ends?
   If you move out early, communicate clearly with your landlord and arrange for a final inspection and deposit return.
5. Where do I find official eviction forms or help?
   The Office of Residential Tenancies website has all official forms and resources. See their official site here.

How To: Respond to an Eviction Notice in Saskatchewan

1. Read the notice carefully. Check the reason, notice period, and move-out date.
2. Gather evidence. Collect rent receipts, lease agreements, and any communications with your landlord.
3. Decide whether to move out or dispute. If you disagree with the eviction, prepare to file a dispute with the ORT.
4. File a response. Complete the response section (if included) or contact the ORT to submit your dispute. Find forms and guidance on the ORT website.
5. Attend your ORT hearing. Bring all evidence and attend the hearing (in person or by phone) at the scheduled date.

Key Takeaways

• Evictions in Saskatchewan must follow strict notice procedures and are regulated by law.
• Tenants have rights to dispute or challenge evictions through the Office of Residential Tenancies.
• Always act quickly if you receive a notice and seek support if needed.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): Residential Tenancies Office Saskatchewan – forms, guides, and dispute submissions.
• Public Legal Education Association of Saskatchewan (PLEA): PLEA – free legal information and tenant guides.
• For regional tenant support: Contact local legal aid or tenant support services in Saskatchewan.
• Review your rights in detail at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

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1. The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)
2. Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) – Official Tribunal

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