Illegal Tenant Fees in Saskatchewan: What to Watch For

As a tenant in Saskatchewan, it’s important to know what your landlord can—and can’t—legally charge you for. While some fees are allowed under the Residential Tenancies Act (Saskatchewan), others are not and may put your rights at risk. Understanding which fees are illegal helps you avoid unfair charges and maintain a positive renting experience.

Common Illegal Fees in Saskatchewan Rentals

Landlords sometimes add extra charges to rental agreements, but not all are lawful. The Residential Tenancies Act (Saskatchewan) clearly outlines what is permitted—and what isn’t.

• Application Fees: Landlords cannot charge you a fee just to apply for a rental unit.
• Illegal Administrative Fees: Additional fees for processing rent, paperwork, or tenant complaints are not permitted.
• Excessive Key or Lock Charges: While landlords may charge a reasonable amount for lost keys, large "deposit"-like fees for keys or security devices are not allowed.
• Mandatory Cleaning or Maintenance Fees: Landlords cannot demand flat upfront cleaning or maintenance fees as a condition of tenancy.
• Illegal Move-Out or Inspection Fees: Charging tenants for move-out walk-throughs, inspections, or "final cleaning" before you vacate is not permitted.

Always ask for a written breakdown if you notice unfamiliar fees in your agreement or on your rent statement. If in doubt, check the rules or contact the Office of Residential Tenancies.

Which Charges ARE Allowed?

Some fees are legal and can be included in your rental agreement, provided they meet the standards set by Saskatchewan law:

• Security Deposits: These are legal, must not exceed one month’s rent, and must be kept in trust. For more on legal deposits, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
• Rent for the Rental Unit: Naturally, you must pay your regular rent as agreed in the lease.
• Pet Deposits: If pets are allowed, an extra deposit (up to one month’s rent) can be charged.
• Late Rent Fees: Landlords may charge a reasonable late payment fee, but it must be specified in the agreement (typically a capped fixed amount or percentage).

Any other recurring or one-time fees may not be enforceable. Double-check your agreement—if a fee isn’t listed or explained up-front, you can dispute it.

If You’re Charged an Illegal Fee: What to Do

Spotting an illegal fee can be stressful, but you have options to resolve the situation. Saskatchewan’s tenant protection system is designed to keep things fair.

How to File a Complaint Over Illegal Fees

The ORT handles fee disputes and other tenancy complaints. The key steps are:

• First, ask your landlord (in writing) to explain the fee and cite the legislation.
• If the fee is not justified or refunded, gather copies of your lease, payment records, and written communications.
• File Form 7: Application for Resolution with the Office of Residential Tenancies. Use this form if you want your money returned or want the landlord ordered to stop demanding illegal fees.

For more help, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Related Rights and Responsibilities

Both landlords and tenants have clear rights regarding rent, repairs, and notices. Knowing your rights can help you challenge unfair practices. Review more in-depth guidance at Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained or see the official Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan page.

Key Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Form 7: Application for Resolution — Use this if a landlord refuses to return an illegal fee, or for other tenancy disputes.
  Example: If you’re charged a $200 “admin fee” on top of your rent, submit Form 7 to contest the charge.
  Access Form 7 on the ORT site.
• Form 5: Notice to Landlord — Use this form to inform your landlord of illegal charges and request resolution before filing a formal complaint.
  Find Form 5 here.

Always keep a copy of all correspondence for your records.

Related Legislation, Tribunal, and Facts

The Saskatchewan Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 governs all rental relationships and sets fee rules. If you have a dispute, the Office of Residential Tenancies is your official dispute tribunal. Learn more by reviewing the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan fact sheet.

For hassle-free housing searches, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings and discover the latest rental homes available across Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord charge me a non-refundable cleaning fee in Saskatchewan?
   No, non-refundable cleaning fees collected up front are generally not allowed. Any damages or cleaning required beyond normal wear and tear should be deducted from the security deposit after move-out, not charged as an arbitrary flat fee.
2. Is my landlord allowed to demand an “administrative fee” or “lease renewal fee”?
   No, administrative or lease renewal fees are usually not legal in Saskatchewan. Tenants should not be required to pay extra charges for standard services covered by rent.
3. What should I do if I realize I’ve paid an illegal fee?
   Start by requesting a refund in writing from your landlord. If they refuse, use Form 7: Application for Resolution with the Office of Residential Tenancies for an official ruling.
4. Are pet fees different from pet deposits?
   Yes. Only a refundable pet deposit (up to one month’s rent) is allowed. Ongoing or extra “pet fees” each month are not permitted unless clearly stated and agreed upon in the lease.
5. Can my landlord keep my entire deposit for any small damage or missing keys?
   No, deductions must be reasonable and reflect actual costs. Full deposit forfeiture is only justified for serious or unaddressed damages. For more security deposit tips, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Summary and Key Takeaways

• Illegal fees—including application, administrative, or mandatory cleaning charges—are not allowed under Saskatchewan law.
• Security and pet deposits are permitted with clear rules. Always receive a receipt and written terms.
• If you are charged an illegal fee, keep all records and use ORT forms to dispute the charge.

Remember, knowing your rights keeps you protected and supports a fair rental experience for all.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) – File complaints, access official forms, and get dispute guidance.
• Government of Saskatchewan – Tenant Resources – Basic rights and contact information.
• Community Legal Education Association – Guidance and support for renters (note: cross-provincial resources may apply).
• For fast local rental options, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings.

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1. Government of Saskatchewan. Residential Tenancies – Tenants, 2024.
2. Saskatchewan. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (PDF). Updated 2024.
3. Office of Residential Tenancies. How to file an application (Form 7), 2024.

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