What to do if your landlord loses a master key
If a landlord reports a lost master key in Saskatchewan, tenants should act to protect privacy and safety. Start by asking the landlord for written confirmation of the loss and a clear plan to secure spare keys, including rekeying or replacing locks. Keep notes, copies of messages and any receipts so you can show what happened. If the landlord does not act promptly, tenants can request assistance from the Office of Residential Tenancies[1] or rely on the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 for rules about entry and security[2].
Immediate steps tenants can take
- Ask the landlord in writing to rekey or replace the lock and to explain who had access to the lost key.
- Keep evidence: save texts, emails, photos of notices and a dated log of conversations.
- Request a written notice describing the loss and the steps the landlord will take to secure the property.
- Consider changing the lock yourself if the landlord refuses, but first check the tenancy rules and rental agreement to avoid breaching lease terms.
- Contact local tenant services for advice and, if needed, prepare to apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies for dispute resolution.
When to request formal action and which forms to use
If informal requests do not resolve the issue, tenants may file an application with the province’s tenancy office. Use the official residential tenancies forms and follow the guidance on when to file and how to serve documents[3]. A practical example: if a landlord refuses to rekey after two written requests and 7 days have passed, complete the residential tenancies application form and attach copies of your written requests and logs as evidence.
Evidence to prepare for a complaint or hearing
- Copies of written requests to the landlord and any replies.
- Photographs or dated screenshots showing communications or notices.
- Receipts if you paid to change a lock after asking the landlord to act.
- Contact details for witnesses or building staff who can confirm the situation.
For general landlord and tenant obligations, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained and for repair or emergency entry issues see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.
What the law generally allows and limits
Saskatchewan rules set limits on when a landlord may enter a rental unit and what notice is required, and they require that landlords take reasonable steps to secure a property after a security problem. If the lost key means unauthorized people could access your unit, that may affect habitability and justify a tenant request for immediate action under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006[2].
FAQ
- Can a landlord enter my unit after they lose a master key?
- A landlord may only enter your unit for permitted reasons and with proper notice under Saskatchewan rules; a lost key does not automatically allow immediate entry without notice.
- Can I change the locks if I’m worried about security?
- You may ask to change locks, but check your tenancy agreement and local rules; if your landlord refuses, gather evidence and consider applying to the Office of Residential Tenancies for help.
- How do I file a complaint about a lost master key or insecure access?
- File the appropriate residential tenancies application form with the Office of Residential Tenancies, attach your evidence, and follow the office’s filing instructions as found on the official forms page.
How-To
- Ask the landlord in writing to confirm the loss and describe the steps they will take to secure the keys.
- If the landlord agrees, request a timeline for rekeying or lock replacement and proof when completed.
- If the landlord does not act, collect copies of all communications and receipts as evidence for an application.
- Submit an application to the Office of Residential Tenancies with your evidence and attend any scheduled hearing.
Key Takeaways
- Request rekeying or lock replacement in writing and keep copies.
- Document all communications and preserve receipts and photos.
- Use official residential tenancies forms and apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies if the landlord does not fix the problem.
Help and Support / Resources
- Contact the Office of Residential Tenancies
- Read the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
- Find official residential tenancies forms and publications
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