How Tenants Can File a Group Complaint in Saskatchewan

If you and other tenants in Saskatchewan are experiencing similar problems with your rentals, such as unresolved maintenance issues or health and safety concerns, filing a group complaint can be a powerful way to have your voices heard. This guide explains how Saskatchewan tenants can work together, what steps to take, and how to navigate the process using official forms and resources.

Understanding Tenant Rights in Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan protects tenants through the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1]. If you want a full summary of tenant and landlord rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan for an accessible overview.

When to Consider a Group Complaint

A group complaint is helpful if multiple tenants in the same building or complex are facing the same or very similar issues, such as:

• Lack of repairs or ongoing maintenance issues
• Recurring problems with pests or health hazards
• Unfair changes to rules, amenities, or services
• Harassment, intimidation, or neglect by the landlord

For common rental problems and steps you can try before escalating to a group complaint, check Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

How Does Group Filing Work in Saskatchewan?

In Saskatchewan, the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) is the official tribunal for residential rental disputes. The ORT allows joint applications from tenants as long as all complainants are affected by the same issue and want the same outcome.

Benefits of Filing as a Group

• Stronger case as evidence and testimony is pooled
• Reduced costs (application fee split among tenants)
• Potential for speedier resolution affecting more people

Preparing Your Group Complaint

To file together, all tenants should:

• Gather evidence: Written communications, repair requests, inspection reports, and photos
• Keep lists of tenants joining the complaint and signatures
• Meet to clearly define the issue and preferred remedy

Which Official Form Should You Use?

To officially start the process, tenants must complete the Application for Hearing and Order (Form 5). This is available through the Saskatchewan ORT.

• Application for Hearing and Order – Form 5

When to Use: Use Form 5 when you need the ORT to make an order about landlord responsibilities, repairs, return of security deposits, or other tenant rights. Multiple tenants can be listed together if the issue affects you all. For example, if a group of tenants has a recurring problem with heating that the landlord refuses to fix, all may sign the same form.

How to Complete:

• Include each tenant's name and address
• Describe the issue clearly and provide supporting documents
• State the remedy you are seeking (e.g., order to repair or compensate)
• All tenants must sign the application

Detailed instructions come with the form, and you can submit it by mail, email, fax, or in person. Always keep copies for your records.

What Happens After Filing?

After filing Form 5 with the ORT, you will be notified of a hearing date. Both tenants and landlords may present evidence and speak at the hearing. You may also try to resolve the matter through mediation at this stage, which the ORT can help facilitate.

If the order is in your favour and the landlord does not comply, there are further enforcement steps the ORT can assist with.

For more about landlord obligations, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Finding a New Place During Disputes?

If a group complaint leads you to consider moving, find Affordable homes for rent in Canada with up-to-date listings and tools from Houseme.

FAQ: Filing Group Complaints in Saskatchewan

1. Can one tenant file for everyone in the group?
   No, all tenants who wish to join the group complaint must be named on the application and sign the form. The complaint will only apply to tenants who participate.
2. Does a group complaint cost more?
   No. The Saskatchewan ORT charges one fee per application, not per tenant, so the expense can be shared among the group.
3. Will all tenants have to attend the hearing?
   Usually, all named tenants are expected to attend or provide authorization for one to act on their behalf. It’s best for everyone to participate for a stronger case.
4. What if only some tenants want to join?
   Only those tenants who sign the application form will be part of the group complaint. Others may still file complaints individually if they choose.
5. Is a group complaint more effective than filing alone?
   In cases affecting many tenants, a group complaint can be more persuasive and efficient.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• Group complaints help tenants address shared concerns in Saskatchewan efficiently
• Complete and submit Form 5 together, including all affected tenants
• The Office of Residential Tenancies manages the process and provides guidance

Acting together as tenants can give your concerns greater weight and lead to better outcomes.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): Official board for complaints and hearings
• Government of Saskatchewan – Tenant Rights
• For a full overview of tenant and landlord rights in your province, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006: Saskatchewan's primary rental housing law.
2. Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): Provincial board handling group and individual rental complaints.
3. Form 5: Application for Hearing and Order: Official application for group or individual complaints.

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