Landlord Pet Deposits in Saskatchewan: Tenant Rights Explained

Bringing a pet to your rental home in Saskatchewan comes with special rules and important protections for both tenants and landlords. Knowing how pet deposits work ensures you avoid surprises and helps maintain a positive rental experience. This article covers the essentials about pet deposits in Saskatchewan under current laws, what to expect, and your options if you have concerns about extra fees or deposits for your furry companions.

Pet Deposits in Saskatchewan: What the Law Says

In Saskatchewan, landlords are allowed to ask for a pet deposit in addition to the standard security deposit, provided the tenant has one or more pets. This is specifically outlined in the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) guidelines and the Saskatchewan Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.^[1]

Key facts about pet deposits in Saskatchewan:

• Pet deposits are legal, but only if they are specified in the rental agreement.
• The pet deposit can be up to half a month’s rent (not more).
• The landlord cannot ask for a pet deposit if the pet is a service animal for a person with a disability.
• Landlords must keep pet deposits in trust and return them—minus costs for repairs, if needed—when you move out.

For more information on standard deposits and how they differ from pet deposits, check out Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Rules About Pet Deposits in Your Rental Agreement

Landlords can only collect a pet deposit if it is clearly stated in your signed rental agreement. Before paying any deposit:

• Check your lease or agreement for specific wording about pets and pet deposits.
• If you are adding a pet after moving in, ask for a written agreement about the deposit before you bring your pet home.

If you’re unsure what to expect after signing your agreement, our What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement guide can help you understand your rights and obligations in detail.

How and When Pet Deposits Are Returned

When your tenancy ends, your landlord should return the pet deposit, minus any reasonable costs to repair damage caused by your pet. Here’s how the process generally works:

• Move-Out Inspection: Both tenant and landlord should inspect the property at the end of the tenancy to assess any damage.
• Landlords can only deduct from the pet deposit for pet-caused damage beyond normal wear and tear.
• The deposit should be returned within seven business days after the end of the tenancy.

If you have questions about the end of your lease process or want tips for getting your deposits back, visit How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

If you believe you have been charged an illegal deposit, or your pet deposit was not returned fairly, you can apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies for dispute resolution.^[2]

Special Considerations for Service Animals

Landlords cannot charge a pet deposit for service animals (such as guide dogs or therapeutic assistance animals) related to a tenant’s medical needs or disability. Refusing to allow a service animal, or charging a deposit for one, may violate federal and provincial human rights laws.^[3]

What If You Disagree About Pet Deposits?

If you and your landlord can’t agree about the pet deposit, or if you believe the amount is above what is allowed, you can take these steps:

• Review your rental agreement and legislation.
• Talk with your landlord to resolve the issue together.
• If not resolved, apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies to have the case reviewed.

Related Legislation and Official Forms

• The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 — The main legislation governing all deposit rules in Saskatchewan.
• Form: Application for Hearings (Form 5) — Used to resolve disputes, including improper pet deposit collection or non-return. Download Form 5 from the ORT.
  Example: If your landlord withholds your pet deposit improperly, file a Form 5 with a clear explanation and supporting documents.

Summary: What Tenants Should Remember

Saskatchewan landlords can charge a pet deposit, but there are limits and clear rules. Make sure to keep written records and know your rights when paying or requesting the return of a pet deposit.

For a full overview of your rights and responsibilities as a tenant in this province, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan. Looking for more pet-friendly options or rentals that suit your needs? Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca to discover homes across Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can a Saskatchewan landlord refuse to rent to me because I have a pet?
   Yes. Landlords in Saskatchewan are allowed to refuse tenants with pets (unless it is a certified service animal). They may also set specific rules about pets in the rental agreement.
2. What happens to my pet deposit when I move out?
   Your landlord must return the pet deposit within seven business days if there is no excess pet damage, only keeping amounts for actual cleaning or repairs your pet caused.
3. Can a landlord charge more than half a month’s rent for a pet deposit?
   No. The law sets the maximum pet deposit at half of one month’s rent. Higher deposits are not legal.
4. Are there pet rent fees in addition to deposits?
   Saskatchewan law does not specifically address monthly ‘pet rent’. Such charges are not considered deposits and should be clearly stated in your lease. Talk to your landlord if you see extra fees.
5. What can I do if my landlord refuses to return my pet deposit?
   You can file an Application for Hearing (Form 5) with the Office of Residential Tenancies to resolve the dispute.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Pet deposits are legal in Saskatchewan, up to half a month’s rent and only for non-service animals.
• Always get pet deposit details in writing as part of your lease.
• If your deposit is unfairly withheld, use official complaint routes for support.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) — Handles disputes, complaints, and offers tenant-landlord forms.
• Government of Saskatchewan: Renting and Leasing — Official guides for tenants and landlords.
• Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission: For help with service animal or discrimination issues.
• Local tenant advocacy centres and legal clinics: Offer support and advice for tenant-landlord problems.

---

1. See: The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)
2. Office of Residential Tenancies: Resolving Disputes & Applications
3. Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission: Rights and Disabilities

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy