Family Size Discrimination in Saskatchewan Rentals: Your Rights & Legal Help

Discrimination against tenants based on family size, such as refusing to rent to families with children, is a real concern in Saskatchewan. If you believe you’ve been treated unfairly by a landlord because of your family size, it’s important to know your rights under Saskatchewan law and the steps you can take to resolve the issue. This guide explains legal protections, solutions, and where to find help.

Can Landlords Discriminate Based on Family Size in Saskatchewan?

In Saskatchewan, landlords are not allowed to discriminate against tenants or applicants based on family status — which directly includes the size of your family or if you have children. This protection comes from the Saskatchewan Human Rights Code, which makes it illegal for landlords to:

• Deny rental applications because you have children or a large family
• Set different terms, such as higher rent or stricter rules, for families with children
• Try to evict or threaten eviction based on increased family size (e.g., after a new child joins your household)

Note: There are some exceptions, such as shared accommodations where the landlord also lives in the residence.

What Does the Law Say?

The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code protects "family status" as a prohibited ground of discrimination in housing (Section 11). Additionally, the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 protects tenant rights, including protection from discriminatory practices.

What Should You Do If You Face Discrimination?

If you believe a landlord has treated you unfairly due to your family size, record the details and consider these steps:

• Document dates, conversations, texts, and emails related to the rental application or tenancy.
• Reach out to the landlord to clarify policies in writing, if possible.
• If the issue continues, you can file a complaint with the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission.

The Saskatchewan human rights process is designed to help tenants resolve these disputes fairly and confidentially.

How to File a Discrimination Complaint in Saskatchewan

Follow these steps if you decide to file a complaint:

• Download and complete the Intake Questionnaire from the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission.
• Provide detailed facts and evidence showing you believe family size discrimination occurred.
• Submit the form by email, mail, or fax as instructed on the Commission’s website.

The Commission may attempt negotiation, mediation, or a formal hearing if the complaint cannot be easily resolved.

When Discrimination Affects Your Tenancy

If you are already a tenant and suspect you are facing threats, unfair rules, or eviction due to family size, these additional steps are important:

• Contact the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) for guidance or to dispute a notice.
• Refer to your rental agreement and keep it safe as evidence of your tenancy terms.
• Learn more about your housing rights by reviewing Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

Knowing your obligations as a tenant is also vital. Learn about the responsibilities of both tenants and landlords through Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Official Forms and Where to Find Them

• Intake Questionnaire (Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission): Used to file discrimination complaints, including family size issues. Download from the Commission. Complete the form describing the discrimination, attach your evidence, and submit as instructed. For example, if a landlord rejects your application after learning you have three children, detail this event.
• Notice of Hearing or Application Forms (Office of Residential Tenancies): Used to respond if you receive an eviction notice or need to apply for a hearing regarding a tenancy dispute. Find forms and resources at the ORT Official Forms Page.

Summary: Saskatchewan provides tenants with specific protections against discrimination over family size. Prompt action and documentation make it easier to resolve issues fairly.

FAQ: Family Size Discrimination in Saskatchewan Rentals

1. Is it legal for a landlord to say “no children” in a rental ad in Saskatchewan? No. Stating “no children” is considered discrimination based on family status and is prohibited under the Saskatchewan Human Rights Code.
2. What can I do if my landlord tries to evict me after my family grows? If you believe the eviction is because of a new child or increased family size, document your situation and file a complaint with the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission. You may also dispute the eviction through the Office of Residential Tenancies.
3. How long does it take to resolve a discrimination complaint? Timelines vary but the Commission will review, investigate, and — if necessary — arrange mediation or a hearing. Processing may take several months.
4. Are there exceptions for small or shared housing? Some exceptions apply if the landlord lives in the same dwelling or if a property is a small “shared accommodation.” Contact the Commission for specific guidance.
5. Where can I look for family-friendly rental listings? Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings to find a range of family-friendly homes across Saskatchewan and Canada.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Discrimination over family size is prohibited in Saskatchewan rental housing.
• Document incidents, use official forms, and seek help if you experience unfair treatment.
• Resources and complaint processes are available to support you and enforce your rights.

For a complete overview of tenant and landlord responsibilities, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission — Learn, file complaints, and get guidance
• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) — Resolve tenancy disputes, evictions, and applications
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan — Detailed fact page for Saskatchewan tenants
• For family-sized and accessible rentals: Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings

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1. Saskatchewan Human Rights Code — Housing Rights Overview
2. Full Saskatchewan Human Rights Code (PDF)
3. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (PDF)
4. How to File a Discrimination Complaint — Official Intake Form
5. Office of Residential Tenancies — Official Resource

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