Facing eviction can make finding future housing hard, especially in Saskatchewan where rental references shape applications. This guide explains how a landlord reference works after eviction, what tenants can reasonably ask for, and practical steps to rebuild rental history. You’ll learn how to collect documents, request neutral or conditional references, use official residential tenancy processes, and prepare for hearings if a reference contains false information. It includes sample request wording, what to avoid saying, and links to the Office of Residential Tenancies and official forms so you know where to file applications or complaints. Whether you were evicted for non-payment, lease breach, or a contested issue, the steps here focus on documentation, communication, and official remedies.
Understanding landlord references after eviction
Landlord references are typically factual notes or short letters that describe a previous tenancy, payment history, and whether the tenant complied with lease terms. After an eviction, landlords may decline to provide a positive reference or may give a neutral summary. If you believe a reference includes incorrect or misleading statements, you can gather evidence and raise the issue with Saskatchewan’s residential tenancy system [1].
What landlords can and cannot say
Landlords may state objective facts such as payment dates, unpaid rent, or whether keys were returned. They should avoid false statements or personal attacks. Tenants have the right to respond, keep records, and ask for corrections when statements are inaccurate.
How to ask for a fair reference
Use clear, polite requests and offer helpful context. Below are practical steps you can follow when requesting a reference from a former landlord.
- Gather documents such as rent receipts, bank records, dated photos, and repair requests to show your payment and conduct history.
- Send a written request for a reference by email or letter stating the dates you rented and the wording you would like (for example, a neutral factual reference).
- Offer a short suggested reference text to reduce misunderstandings and make it easy for the landlord to respond.
- Provide alternative references such as employers, co-signers, or new landlords who can vouch for your reliability.
- If a landlord refuses, provides false information, or you suspect defamation, consider filing an application or complaint with the provincial residential tenancy service.
Using official routes and forms
If you cannot resolve matters directly, Saskatchewan’s residential tenancy resources explain how to apply for hearings and file complaints. The main official website lists forms and contact details for the Office of Residential Tenancies [1].
Common forms and when to use them:
- Application for Hearing — used when a tenant or landlord asks the Office of Residential Tenancies to decide a dispute, for example if a reference contains false claims and you seek correction or direction; submit this with copies of your evidence.
- Notice to End Tenancy / Eviction Notices — these are the formal documents landlords use to end tenancies; a tenant should keep a copy to check dates and reasons, and to determine whether the eviction followed proper procedure.
Practical examples
Example request wording: "I rented Unit 3B from Jan 1 to March 31. For future applications I would appreciate a factual reference noting my tenancy dates and that rent was paid on the following dates: [list]. Please let me know if you can provide that in writing." This keeps the request limited to verifiable facts and reduces conflict.
If you need to find housing while resolving a dispute, consider resources and searchable listings to identify reasonable options such as Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
You can also review broader moving and exit guidance for tenants in Saskatchewan by reading Moving Out Tips: A Tenant''s Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit and refresh your rights with Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.
FAQ
- Can a landlord refuse to give any reference after an eviction?
- Yes. Landlords can decline to give a positive reference, but they should not publish false statements. If you think a reference is inaccurate, gather evidence and consider asking the Office of Residential Tenancies to review the matter.
- What if a reference has incorrect information?
- Save copies of the reference, collect supporting documents, write to the landlord asking for correction, and if unresolved, file an application or complaint with the provincial tenancy office including your evidence.
- Will an eviction permanently block me from renting?
- No. Many tenants rebuild rental history by documenting payments, using neutral references, offering a larger deposit or guarantor, and showing steady income or good references from employers or community contacts.
How-To
- Gather all documents: receipts, bank records, dated photos, messages, and repair requests to build your file.
- Write a short, neutral reference request explaining what you need and suggesting factual wording.
- Send the request by email or registered mail so you have a record of the request and date.
- Provide alternative references and offer a guarantor or larger deposit to new landlords while you rebuild history.
- If a reference is false or defamatory, file an Application for Hearing with the Office of Residential Tenancies and include your evidence and a clear statement of the remedy you want.
- While resolving disputes, keep searching for housing and use clear applications that explain context and provide supporting documents.
Key Takeaways
- Document everything related to the tenancy and save receipts and communications.
- Request brief, factual references in writing and offer suggested wording to help the landlord respond.
- If you cannot resolve a false or damaging reference, use the Office of Residential Tenancies to request a hearing.
Help and Support / Resources
- Contact the Office of Residential Tenancies — Government of Saskatchewan
- Residential tenancy forms and guides — Government of Saskatchewan
- Tenant help and tenant rights information — Government of Saskatchewan
