If you’re a tenant in Saskatchewan and suspect your landlord is taking action against you because you exercised your legal rights—for example, by requesting repairs or reporting health and safety concerns—this may be considered retaliation. Fortunately, the law in Saskatchewan protects tenants from landlord retaliation. This guide explains what retaliation looks like, how the law protects you, and the steps to file a formal complaint if you believe you are a victim of retaliation.
Understanding Retaliation in Saskatchewan Tenancies
Retaliation occurs when a landlord tries to punish a tenant for exercising a legal right, such as asking for required repairs, contacting the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT), or joining a tenant association. Common examples include sudden rent increases, eviction notices, or refusal to provide necessary repairs after you speak up about your rights.
In Saskatchewan, it is illegal for your landlord to try to evict you, increase your rent, or otherwise penalize you for exercising your legal rights. These protections come from the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.[1]
Recognizing Retaliatory Behaviour
- Your landlord threatens to evict you soon after you’ve complained about needed repairs.
- You receive a non-renewal notice after reporting a Health and Safety Issue.
- Your landlord increases your rent unexpectedly in direct response to a recent complaint or action.
Documenting these timelines and communications is key if you believe you’re experiencing retaliation.
Steps to Filing a Retaliation Complaint in Saskatchewan
Here’s how you can take action if you believe your landlord is retaliating against you:
- Keep Records: Always document your requests (e.g., for repairs) in writing and keep copies of all correspondence.
- Note Timelines: Write down the sequence of events—what you did (such as submitting a complaint) and the timing of any landlord responses.
- Collect Evidence: Save emails, letters, text messages, photographs, and notes from any relevant conversations.
Filing with the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT)
The Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) oversees rental dispute resolution in Saskatchewan. If you need to challenge an eviction you believe is retaliatory or respond to a Notice of Termination, you may launch a claim or request a hearing through the ORT.
Relevant Forms and How to Use Them
- Application for Claim (Form 5) — Used by tenants to make a claim against a landlord, including for retaliatory eviction or other prohibited penalties.
For example, if your landlord gives you an eviction notice shortly after you ask for repairs, you can file Form 5 to challenge the notice as a retaliatory action.
Download Form 5 Application for Claim[2] - Notice of Hearing (Form 6) — Once your claim is accepted, you will receive this notice confirming your hearing date and next steps. Keep this for your records.
Forms and a comprehensive guide are available on the Office of Residential Tenancies website.[3]
What Happens at a Hearing?
At the scheduled hearing, you’ll have the chance to present your evidence of retaliation. The landlord can also respond. The ORT will issue a decision, which may set aside the landlord’s action if it is found to be retaliatory.
Additional Rights and Resources for Saskatchewan Tenants
For a full overview of your rights and responsibilities in this province, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan. Knowing your rights can also help prevent common issues, such as improper rent increases, security deposit problems, or routine repairs—topics explained in the Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them guide.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What is considered landlord retaliation in Saskatchewan? Landlord retaliation can include action like eviction, rent hikes, or refusing necessary repairs after a tenant asserts their legal rights, such as complaining about safety issues or joining a tenants’ association.
- Can I be evicted for complaining about needed repairs? No. Under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, it is illegal for your landlord to evict or penalize you solely for making a repair request or asserting your rights.
- How do I file a complaint if I think my landlord is retaliating? Complete Form 5 (Application for Claim) with the Office of Residential Tenancies and submit supporting evidence. You will receive a hearing date to present your case.
- Do I need a lawyer to file a retaliation complaint? No. You are not required to have a lawyer, although you may seek legal advice or representation if you wish. Provincial tenant advocacy services can also help.
- Where do I get official complaint forms? Official forms are available on the Office of Residential Tenancies website.
Key Takeaways for Saskatchewan Tenants
- Landlord retaliation is prohibited under Saskatchewan law.
- Keep records and gather evidence if you believe you are experiencing retaliation.
- Filing a formal complaint is possible, and you do not have to face the process alone.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) — File complaints, download forms, and access guides for tenants in Saskatchewan.
- Government of Saskatchewan – Renting and Leasing — Official information for tenants and landlords.
- Local tenant advocacy groups or legal clinics may offer free guidance or representation.
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006: view Saskatchewan Residential Tenancies Act
- Individual Forms: Form 5 Application for Claim (PDF)
- ORT Website, official forms and resources: Office of Residential Tenancies Forms
