Tenant renters in Saskatchewan often face behaviors from landlords that may cross the line into harassment. This article explains what landlord harassment looks like, how Saskatchewan law treats unwelcome pressure or threats, and the practical steps tenants can take to protect themselves and seek remedies. You will learn how to document incidents, what official forms and deadlines apply, and where to file a complaint with the provincial decision maker for tenancy disputes. The guidance is focused on everyday renters, avoids legal jargon, and points to the official resources and forms you will need to resolve harassment, pursue orders, or get help with safety and repairs.
What counts as landlord harassment?
Harassment covers a range of actions that interfere with a tenant's reasonable enjoyment of their rental home. Common examples include:
- Repeated unannounced entries or attempts to enter the unit without proper notice.
- Persistent calls, messages, or pressure tactics meant to intimidate or force a tenant out.
- Threats to withhold a deposit, increase rent unlawfully, or refuse repairs to push a tenant out.
- Retaliation for raising health, safety, or repair concerns, or for filing a complaint with the tenancy office.
- Locking a tenant out or changing locks without following legal eviction processes.
Who handles complaints and what laws apply?
In Saskatchewan, the Office of Residential Tenancies is the official body that resolves residential tenancy disputes and can issue orders or remedies for harassment [1]. The province's relevant law is the Residential Tenancies Act, which defines rights and remedies for both tenants and landlords [2]. If an inspector or tribunal finds harassment, outcomes can include written orders to stop the behavior, compensation, or other corrective measures.
- Orders to stop the harassment and restore tenant rights.
- Compensation for losses caused by harassment, including moving costs or lost quiet enjoyment.
- Temporary measures to protect tenant safety or privacy.
How to document and gather evidence
Good evidence makes a complaint stronger. Collect a clear record that shows a pattern or specific incidents:
- Keep dated photos, videos, screenshots of messages, and copies of letters.
- Keep a written log of dates, times, witnesses, and what was said or done.
- Save rent receipts, repair requests, and any notices from the landlord.
Official forms and when to use them
The Office of Residential Tenancies provides official forms to start a dispute and request remedies. Typical documents include an application to request a hearing or an order, and forms to submit evidence. Use the application form to explain specific harassment incidents and attach your evidence; a clear example is a tenant who files an application after repeated illegal entries and ignored repair requests. The forms page lists current templates and filing instructions [3].
- Application for an order (use when you want the tribunal to issue a remedy or compensation).
- Notice of dispute or evidence attachment forms (use to submit photos, logs, or receipts with your application).
Filing a complaint: practical steps
Before you apply, try these steps to prepare a strong case and protect your rights:
- Document incidents thoroughly and keep copies of all communications with your landlord.
- Send a clear written request to the landlord asking them to stop the behavior and keep proof of delivery.
- Contact the Office of Residential Tenancies for guidance on forms and timelines [1].
FAQ
- What counts as landlord harassment?
- Harassment includes repeated unauthorized entry, threats, intimidation, changing locks without legal eviction, and retaliation for complaining about repairs or safety.
- Who do I file a complaint with in Saskatchewan?
- You file with the Office of Residential Tenancies, which handles hearings and may order remedies or compensation.
- What evidence should I bring to a hearing?
- Bring dated photos, screenshots, logs of incidents, copies of notices and repair requests, and any witness contact information.
How-To
- Gather and organize evidence: photos, messages, a dated incident log, and receipts.
- Complete the application form for an order, filling key details about the harassment.
- Check and meet filing deadlines noted on the form or the Office of Residential Tenancies website.
- Contact the Office of Residential Tenancies for filing instructions and to confirm hearing dates.
- Submit the application with attachments and keep proof of filing or delivery.
- Attend the hearing prepared to present your evidence and explain the impact of the harassment.
Key Takeaways
- Document every incident with dates, photos, and copies of communications.
- Use the Office of Residential Tenancies to seek orders, compensation, or other remedies.
- Seek local legal help early if safety or eviction is a concern.
Help and Support / Resources
- Office of Residential Tenancies - Dispute resolution and enforcement
- Government of Saskatchewan - Residential tenancies
- Legal Aid Saskatchewan - tenant services and advice
If you need to find a new rental while a dispute is pending, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
