Handling Landlord Retaliation After Complaints in Saskatchewan

If you’re a tenant in Saskatchewan and have reported your landlord for health, safety, or other tenancy issues, you shouldn’t fear losing your home or facing other unfair actions. However, sometimes landlords may attempt to retaliate after a tenant files a complaint or contacts local authorities. This guide explains what retaliation is, what your rights are under Saskatchewan law, and practical steps you can take if you believe you are facing landlord retaliation.

What Is Landlord Retaliation?

Retaliation happens when a landlord reacts negatively after you exercise a legal right, such as reporting conditions that need repair, asking for essential services to be restored, or contacting provincial authorities with a complaint. Common examples of retaliation include:

• Giving you an eviction notice after you file a complaint
• Raising your rent without proper notice or justification
• Refusing to complete repairs or disrupting your access to utilities
• Threatening, harassing, or otherwise interfering with your right to enjoy your home

Retaliation is against the law in Saskatchewan. The The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 protects you from these types of actions.^[1]

Your Rights as a Tenant in Saskatchewan

Under provincial law, you have the right to:

• Request repairs and maintenance without fear of penalty
• File a complaint with the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) if your landlord fails to meet their obligations
• Remain in your home unless the landlord has legal grounds and follows proper procedures for eviction
• Be free from harassment or intimidation

For a full overview of your rights and responsibilities, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

Tip: Document Everything

What to Do If You Suspect Retaliation

If you think your landlord is retaliating after you report an issue, it’s important to take action right away. Here’s what you can do:

• Stay calm and keep records. Save any written communication and write down the dates and details of verbal conversations.
• Respond in writing. Clearly state your concerns with dates and facts, and keep a copy.
• Consult the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT). The ORT is Saskatchewan’s official tribunal for tenant-landlord matters. Learn more or start a claim through the ORT.
• Check your rental agreement. This may clarify what your landlord is obligated to do or not do after you file a report. For more details, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

If retaliation involves a rent increase, sudden repair refusals, or threats of eviction, these may be common tenant issues. For tips on addressing them, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

How to File a Formal Complaint with the ORT

In Saskatchewan, tenants can file a formal application with the Office of Residential Tenancies if they believe their landlord is retaliating. Here’s how the process generally works:

• Gather your evidence: Collect written communications, photos, witness statements, and relevant documents.
• Complete the Application to ORT (Form 7): This is used for claims related to unlawful eviction, harassment, or disputes following a tenant’s legal complaints.
  Download Form 7 (Application for an Order of the ORT)^[2]
• Submit your application: File your application with the ORT. You can do this online, by mail, or in person.
  Office Locations and Contact
• Attend the hearing: The ORT will schedule a hearing. Be prepared to present all your evidence.

If you are unsure which form or process applies, the ORT’s website lists guides, forms, and tenant-friendly resources.

Other Forms That May Apply

• Form 8 (Tenant’s Application): Used for cases dealing with the landlord’s failure to provide repairs, essential services, or other obligations.

Download tenant forms on the Saskatchewan government website

FAQ: Saskatchewan Tenant Retaliation

1. Can my landlord evict me right after I file a complaint?
   Landlords must have a valid, legal reason to evict a tenant. Eviction in response to a complaint is considered retaliation and is likely unlawful.
2. What if my landlord refuses repairs after I report them?
   You can document the refusal and escalate the matter to the Office of Residential Tenancies using the appropriate form, such as Form 8.
3. Is a rent increase after a complaint considered retaliation?
   If a rent increase happens right after you file a complaint and does not comply with notice requirements, it could be retaliation. Report this to the ORT for review.
4. How long does it take to resolve a complaint through the ORT?
   Most hearings are scheduled within a few weeks. The timeline could vary based on case complexity.
5. Can I get help to represent me at a hearing?
   Yes, you can request assistance from tenant advocacy groups or legal clinics. Contact local services or check provincial resources for support.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Retaliation by landlords after filing complaints is illegal in Saskatchewan.
• Document all communications and actions for your own protection.
• Use the ORT’s forms and tribunal process to defend your rights if needed.

Knowing your legal rights and available resources gives you confidence to address landlord retaliation properly. For more information, Canada’s best rental listings platform makes it easy to Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): Tribunal for tenant-landlord disputes, complaint forms, guides
• Official Tenant & Landlord Forms
• Saskatchewan Rights and Responsibilities Guide
• Local Saskatchewan Renters’ Rights & Advocacy Organizations
• For a comprehensive summary, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan

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1. The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)
2. Form 7 — Application for an Order of the ORT

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