Landlord Obligations Before Move-In in Saskatchewan

Before you move into a rental in Saskatchewan, your landlord has a number of duties that protect your safety, rights and quiet enjoyment. This guide explains what tenants should expect before move-in, how landlords must prepare the unit, what official forms and notices may be used, and practical steps to document problems and request fixes. It is written for renters who want clear, practical advice about habitability, keys and locks, disclosures about damage or pests, deposits and receipts, and how to use the provincial process if issues are not resolved. Where helpful, we link to official Saskatchewan resources and tenant-facing guides so you can act promptly and confidently.

What landlords must provide before you move in

Your landlord should deliver the rental unit in a condition that is fit for habitation and safe for ordinary use. Common pre-move-in obligations include:

• Make necessary repairs so systems like heat, plumbing and electrical work properly.
• Ensure the unit meets safety and building code requirements, including smoke and carbon monoxide alarms if required.
• Provide working locks and keys and respect tenant privacy regarding entry rules.
• Give an accurate move-in inspection or inventory list and disclose known damage or pest issues.
• Return any pre-existing deposit terms in writing and provide receipts for deposits or last month rent payments.

Required disclosures and communication

Landlords must tell you about material conditions that affect habitability or safety, such as past flooding, major repairs planned, or known infestations. They should also clearly explain how utilities are billed and who is responsible for maintenance tasks. Ask for any important information in writing so you have a record.

Official forms and where to use them

In Saskatchewan, the Office of Residential Tenancies provides information and forms related to disputes and hearings. Common documents tenants may encounter include:

• Application for Hearing (Office of Residential Tenancies form) — used when a tenant or landlord applies for a decision about a dispute, for example if repairs are refused and you seek an order to have them completed.^[1]
• Notices related to termination or rent — landlords must use the correct written notice form for ending a tenancy or changing terms; tenants should keep copies as evidence.
• Move-in inspection form or inventory checklist — use this to note existing damage and avoid unfair claims when you move out.

Practical example: using an Application for Hearing

If your landlord will not repair heating during cold weather, you can document the problem with photos, written requests, and then submit an Application for Hearing to the provincial office asking for an order to compel repairs. Include receipts or messages showing attempts to resolve the issue informally.

What to do if the unit isn’t ready

If you arrive and the unit is unsafe, unclean, or essential services don’t work, take these steps:

• Document the condition with photos, a dated inventory and written notes.
• Contact your landlord immediately in writing and request urgent repairs or remediation.
• Keep copies of all correspondence and receipts for any emergency expenses you pay because of landlord inaction.

Move-in checklist for tenants

• Do a walk-through on or before move-in day and record any damage or missing items.
• Obtain written receipts for deposits and any advance rent, and confirm where deposit money is held.
• Save all written communications, inspection forms, and photos for future reference.

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FAQ

What must my landlord fix before I move in?

Your landlord must ensure essential systems (heat, plumbing, electrical) work, the unit is safe and meets basic habitability standards, and provide working locks and required alarms. If these are not met, document the issues and request repairs in writing.

Can a landlord require a security deposit and how must it be handled?

Landlords may require deposits if allowed by provincial rules; they must provide receipts and follow rules about return or deductions. Ask for written terms and keep the receipt as proof of payment.

What if the rental has pests or health hazards on move-in?

Report the problem immediately in writing, gather evidence such as photos, and request prompt remediation. If the landlord does not act, you can apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies for a hearing.^[1]

How-To

1. Inspect the unit and complete a move-in checklist: take dated photos and list pre-existing damage.
2. Send a written request to the landlord for any needed repairs and keep that message for your records.
3. If repairs are not done, prepare an Application for Hearing with supporting evidence and submit it to the Office of Residential Tenancies.^[1]
4. Attend any hearing prepared with timelines, receipts, photos and witness statements where possible.

Help and Support / Resources

• Office of Residential Tenancies, Government of Saskatchewan
• Renting and Letting, Government of Saskatchewan

1. [1] Office of Residential Tenancies, Government of Saskatchewan
2. [2] Renting and Letting, Government of Saskatchewan
3. [3] Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme