If you rent in Saskatchewan and face a problem that affects your home — like no heat, plumbing leaks, or unsafe conditions — you should know how landlord repair and maintenance responsibilities protect you. Tenants have the right to a habitable rental, and landlords must keep the unit and common areas in good repair. This guide explains practical steps renters can take, how to document issues, which official forms and timelines apply in Saskatchewan, and where to get help if repairs aren’t made. Use these clear actions to protect your health and rights while keeping communications professional and well-documented.
Who is responsible for repairs in Saskatchewan?
Under Saskatchewan rules the landlord is generally responsible for maintaining a rental unit in a good state of repair and fit for habitation. The Office of Residential Tenancies administers disputes and provides information for tenants and landlords on repair obligations[1]. The governing legislation is the Residential Tenancies Act, which defines basic standards and timelines for repairs and how disputes are handled[2]. Tenants should first report problems to the landlord in writing and keep a copy of every communication.
What to do when a repair is needed
Follow these practical steps to increase the chance the problem is fixed quickly and to preserve evidence if you later need to apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies.
- Contact your landlord in writing with a clear description of the problem and the date you reported it.
- Document the issue with photos, videos, and a dated log of events and any conversations.
- Allow reasonable access for inspection or repair once you receive proper notice, unless it is unsafe to do so.
- Note any timelines the landlord provides and follow up if repairs are not completed within a reasonable time.
- If the landlord does not act, consider filing an application with the Office of Residential Tenancies for dispute resolution.
Official forms you may need and how to use them
Below are the main official forms tenants commonly use in Saskatchewan. Use the links to find the latest versions and instructions on the provincial website.
- Application to the Office of Residential Tenancies — (often titled "Application for Dispute Resolution" on the provincial site). When to use: after you have documented the problem and the landlord has not arranged reasonable repairs. Example: if a persistent mould or heating failure continues after written requests, file this application to ask for an order requiring repairs or compensation.
- Notice and inspection/entry forms — used by landlords to give tenants proper notice to enter for repairs or inspections. When to use: landlords must provide notice before entry; tenants should keep copies of any notices they receive. Example: if a landlord schedules a repair visit, request the notice in writing and keep it as part of your record.
For guidance on what counts as an emergency and how quickly to act, see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities and for smaller day-to-day problems consult Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.
How to prepare evidence before applying
- Keep dated photos and videos that show the problem clearly and include a ruler or timestamp where possible.
- Save copies of all emails and texts and write short notes after phone calls summarizing what was said and by whom.
- Collect receipts if you had to pay for immediate emergency fixes and keep them for a possible compensation claim.
FAQ
- Who must pay for repairs?
- Generally the landlord is responsible for repairs necessary to keep a unit habitable. Tenants may be responsible for damage they or their guests caused. If a repair is urgent, document the cost and speak with the landlord before arranging work; otherwise keep receipts to support a claim.
- What counts as an emergency repair?
- Emergency repairs include situations that threaten health or safety, such as no heat in winter, major water leaks, or gas leaks. For emergencies, contact the landlord immediately, take steps to keep yourself safe, and document the condition and your communications.
- Can a tenant do the repair and deduct the cost from rent?
- Tenants should not withhold rent or make deductions without following the formal process. Instead, document the issue, tell the landlord in writing, and if the landlord fails to act file an application with the Office of Residential Tenancies for a remedy.
How-To
- Document the issue with photos, videos, and a dated log describing when the problem started and how it affects the unit.
- Send a written request to the landlord describing the repair needed and keep a copy of the message and delivery proof.
- If the landlord schedules repairs, allow reasonable access and keep records of the visit and any contractor names.
- If repairs are not completed in a reasonable time, complete and submit the Application to the Office of Residential Tenancies with your evidence.
- Attend the hearing or call as scheduled, bring originals or copies of your evidence, and be prepared to explain the impact and the remedy you seek.
Help and Support / Resources
- Office of Residential Tenancies – Saskatchewan
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)
- Saskatchewan rental housing information
If you are also searching for a new rental, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
