Landlord Surveillance in Saskatchewan Rentals: Tenant Rights Guide

Do you suspect or know that your landlord is installing security cameras or other surveillance devices in your Saskatchewan rental unit? With the rising use of technology, it’s important for tenants to understand their privacy rights and what Saskatchewan law allows when it comes to landlord-installed surveillance.

Your Right to Privacy in a Rental Home

As a tenant in Saskatchewan, your right to privacy is protected by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1]. This law sets clear boundaries for when and how a landlord can enter your space and what surveillance is allowed—helping ensure your home remains private, comfortable, and safe.

To understand all your fundamental rights and obligations under Saskatchewan law, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

Can Your Landlord Install Surveillance Cameras or Recording Devices?

Landlords can use surveillance in some areas, but not all. Here’s what’s permitted and not permitted in Saskatchewan:

• Common Areas: Landlords can install cameras in shared spaces (like hallways, entrances, or laundry rooms) if used for security and crime prevention. However, the cameras must not record audio and must be placed in plain, visible sight with clear signage notifying tenants.
• Inside Rental Units: Surveillance cameras or audio recording devices cannot be installed inside your actual living unit or in private spaces such as bathrooms or bedrooms. This is a serious violation of privacy and is generally prohibited under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 and privacy law.
• Balconies and Patios: If these are considered exclusively your private spaces, surveillance is not allowed without your written consent.
• Audio Recording: Under the federal Criminal Code, it is illegal to record audio in areas where people reasonably expect privacy unless at least one party consents.

Landlord Obligations Regarding Surveillance

Before installing any surveillance technology, landlords must:

• Notify tenants in writing about the purpose and location of cameras in common areas.
• Ensure cameras are not hidden and do not capture inside private rental units.
• Only collect video footage for legitimate safety or building management reasons.

Any failure to follow these steps may be a breach of tenant privacy rights.

What To Do If You Believe Your Privacy Has Been Violated

If you think your landlord has unlawfully installed surveillance tech in your Saskatchewan rental, take these steps:

• Document where you found the camera or device (photos and descriptions help).
• Politely ask your landlord in writing for details about the surveillance and request its removal if it breaches your privacy.
• If your landlord refuses, file a complaint with the Office of Residential Tenancies (Saskatchewan Office of Residential Tenancies), the official body that handles these disputes.

For more detail about related tenant and landlord responsibilities, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

How to File a Complaint: Forms and Action Steps

To resolve privacy or surveillance issues, you can apply for a hearing with Saskatchewan’s Office of Residential Tenancies. The most relevant form is the:

• Form 7: Application for a Hearing
  Download Form 7 (PDF)
  When to use: If your landlord refuses to remove an unauthorized surveillance device or has unlawfully monitored you, submit Form 7 to request a formal hearing. Example: You find a hidden camera in your living room and your landlord won’t take it down after you ask.
  How to use: Complete the form, attach evidence (photos, written requests), and file it with the Office of Residential Tenancies. Instructions and submission details are included with the form.

Other Landlord Entry and Privacy Issues

Surveillance isn’t the only way privacy can be challenged. Landlords must also provide proper written notice before entering your rental unit (typically 24 hours’ notice) unless it’s an emergency. For maintenance, inspections, or repairs, entry rules are strictly regulated by law. For more about your rights after move-in, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Summary: Key Rules Around Landlord Surveillance

• Cameras may be allowed in common areas with notification, never inside your private unit.
• Audio recording is generally not permitted without consent.
• Landlords must always respect privacy and Saskatchewan tenancy law.

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FAQs About Landlord Surveillance and Privacy in Saskatchewan

1. Can my landlord put a camera in my apartment?
   No. Landlords are not allowed to install cameras inside your actual rental unit. Cameras are only allowed in shared areas with clear signage.
2. What should I do if I find a hidden camera inside my rental unit?
   Take photos, record the location, contact your landlord in writing, and if unresolved, file a complaint with the Office of Residential Tenancies using Form 7.
3. Is audio recording legal in Saskatchewan rentals?
   No. Audio recording in private spaces is illegal unless at least one party consents. Recording tenants without consent is a criminal offence in Canada.
4. Where can I get help if my privacy is being violated?
   The Saskatchewan Office of Residential Tenancies can help. Contact them to start a complaint or get guidance on your situation.
5. Are cameras allowed in hallways or parking areas?
   Yes, as long as they are clearly visible, do not record inside private units, and you have been notified.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Your private unit cannot be monitored by your landlord via cameras or audio devices.
• Common area surveillance must be visible and with notice; hidden or unauthorized monitoring is not allowed.
• If privacy is violated, document thoroughly and use official complaint processes for resolution.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies – Saskatchewan: Official Tenancies Office & Complaint Forms
• Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission: Tenant Discrimination & Human Rights
• Information for all Saskatchewan tenant & landlord laws: Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
• Find complete info about Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 – Saskatchewan
2. Saskatchewan Office of Residential Tenancies
3. Criminal Code, Section 184: Interception of Communications

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