Landlord Refuses Repairs? Steps for Saskatchewan Tenants

If you’re renting in Saskatchewan and your landlord is refusing to make necessary repairs, you have clear rights and options. From leaky faucets to major health concerns, landlords have a legal duty to keep your home safe and in good condition. This guide walks you through the steps you can take if repairs aren’t being made and how to protect yourself under Saskatchewan law.

Your Right to a Safe and Well-Maintained Rental

Under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 of Saskatchewan, landlords must ensure rental units are in good repair and comply with basic health and safety standards. This means things like heating, plumbing, electrical systems, doors, windows, and locks must be kept in working order.¹

Common Types of Repairs Landlords Must Address

• Broken heaters or air conditioners
• Leaky roofs or plumbing
• Malfunctioning appliances provided with the rental
• Unsafe stairs, windows, or doors
• Mould or pest infestations
• Other hazards affecting health or safety

For more on your rights related to health and hazards, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

What To Do First: Document and Notify

Before taking formal action, let your landlord know about the repair—preferably in writing. Clearly describe the problem and request that it be fixed by a reasonable deadline (keep copies of your messages).

If the Landlord Still Won’t Fix the Problem

Should your landlord ignore the request or delay repairs beyond a reasonable time, Saskatchewan’s dispute resolution process can help. The Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) is the official body for rental disputes in the province.

Filing a Repair Application with the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT)

Tenants can apply to have the matter reviewed by the ORT if repairs remain outstanding. Here’s how:

• Form Name: Application for an Order of Repairs (Form 14A)
• Where to get it: Saskatchewan: Renting and Leasing Forms
• How it’s used: Form 14A lets you ask the ORT to order your landlord to carry out specific repairs. Give details about the issues and what’s been done to resolve them.

After submitting your application and the required fee, the ORT will hold a hearing. If successful, the ORT can force your landlord to make the repairs or even let you pay less rent until things are fixed.

Urgent and Health-Related Repairs

If repairs impact your health or safety (for example, broken heat in winter, severe plumbing leaks, or unsafe wiring), act quickly. In some cases, you may reach out directly to local health inspectors or the fire department if there’s an immediate risk.

Serious repair problems are also discussed in Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

Your Responsibilities as a Tenant

Tenants must keep their space reasonably clean and notify the landlord as soon as repairs are needed. For a full overview of both parties’ duties, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

If Problems Persist

If your landlord retaliates or the repairs remain unaddressed even after an ORT order, further remedies may be available. In rare cases, tenants can apply to terminate the lease or claim compensation.

Remember, do not withhold rent unless directly ordered by the ORT. This could put you at risk of eviction for non-payment.

Other Housing Options

If major repair issues continue, you may consider looking for a new home. Canada's best rental listings platform helps you find affordable and safe rental properties across the country.

For a provincial overview of tenant and landlord legal rights, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does my landlord have to make repairs in Saskatchewan?
   There is no set legal timeframe, but repairs should be completed within a reasonable period based on the urgency. Emergency repairs (like no heat in winter) require immediate attention, while minor fixes may take longer.
2. Can I withhold rent if repairs are not done?
   No. Under Saskatchewan law, you must keep paying rent unless the ORT specifically orders you to pay less or into trust. Withholding rent could lead to eviction.
3. What evidence do I need if I apply to the ORT?
   It’s best to provide photos, written communications with your landlord, repair estimates or reports, and witness statements if available.
4. Who do I contact for urgent health or building safety hazards?
   You can reach out to your local public health authority, municipal building inspections office, or the fire department for serious, immediate risks to health or safety.
5. What if my landlord tries to evict me for complaining about repairs?
   Retaliatory eviction is not allowed. If you believe your landlord is taking action against you for asserting your rights, contact the ORT or seek legal help.

Key Takeaways

• Landlords in Saskatchewan must maintain your rental in good repair according to the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.
• Notify your landlord about repairs in writing and document everything.
• If the issue isn’t fixed, apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) for an order of repairs.

Stand up for your rights and keep records—it’s the best way to get results if maintenance problems arise.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) – File tenant applications, resolve disputes, and access forms
• Saskatchewan Renting and Leasing Information – Provincial government resource for tenants and landlords
• Local tenant support organizations can also provide advice—search for services near you

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1. Saskatchewan Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Section 24)
2. Office of Residential Tenancies – Government of Saskatchewan
3. ORT Official Forms: Application for an Order of Repairs

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