Legal Help for Maintenance & Repairs Disputes in Saskatchewan

Are you having trouble getting your landlord to make necessary repairs to your rental unit in Saskatchewan? Maintenance and repairs issues are among the most common disputes between tenants and landlords. Understanding your rights, the legal process, and available support options can save you time and stress. This guide explains how to get legal support for maintenance and repairs disputes under Saskatchewan law, and how to ensure your home is safe and comfortable.

Your Rights and Responsibilities for Rental Maintenance in Saskatchewan

Both tenants and landlords in Saskatchewan have specific duties under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006¹ when it comes to maintaining a rental property:

• Landlords must keep the rental in a reasonable state of repair, fit for habitation, and in compliance with health and safety laws.
• Tenants should promptly report any damage or needed repairs and avoid causing damage themselves.

For common repair and responsibility questions, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

Health, Safety, and Emergency Repairs

Some repairs affect your health and safety, such as lack of heat in winter or broken locks. These issues demand immediate attention. If you are in this situation, read Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for guidance on urgent actions.

How to Resolve Maintenance Disputes with Your Landlord

First, always notify your landlord in writing about needed repairs. Keep copies and a log of your requests.

1. Write to your landlord describing the problem and requesting timely repairs.
2. Allow a reasonable time for them to fix the issue, unless it's urgent.
3. Document the issue with photos, dates, and any responses from your landlord.

If your landlord does not respond or refuses to make the repair, you may escalate the issue.

Applying for Legal Support in Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan tenants have official channels to resolve maintenance disputes. The Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) handles maintenance complaints, landlord-tenant disputes, and enforcement of the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.¹

Official Forms: Filing a Tenant Application

• Form Name: Application for Office of Residential Tenancies (Form 5)
• When to Use: If your landlord fails to carry out needed repairs after you have notified them in writing, you can apply to the ORT for an order requiring repairs or compensation.
• How to Use: Attach all evidence (photos, letters, messages). Clearly state what you want the ORT to do (e.g., order the landlord to repair a broken furnace).
• Official Source: Download Form 5 and Guide (saskatchewan.ca)

What Happens After You Apply

After you submit your application, the ORT will schedule a hearing. You and your landlord can present evidence. It’s important to attend and bring all documentation.

If the ORT finds in your favour, they can order your landlord to make repairs or compensate you for losses. Orders are legally binding. For a more detailed overview of common dispute resolutions, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Getting Advice and Preparing Your Case

You don’t need a lawyer to apply to the ORT, but you may want advice. Free tenant advocacy organizations, legal clinics, or the ORT information line can help you understand the process and paperwork.

To learn more about your rights more broadly, visit the page dedicated to Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

Looking for a new rental with responsive landlords? Search Canadian rentals with interactive map view.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do if my landlord ignores repeated repair requests?
   If you have written proof of your requests and your landlord still does nothing, you can file an application with the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) using their official form. Be sure to document everything.
2. Can my landlord charge me for emergency repairs?
   Generally, if the damage was not caused by the tenant or their guests, emergency repairs should be covered by the landlord under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.
3. What types of repairs are considered urgent?
   Anything affecting health, safety, or essential services (like heat, water, secure doors). For more, see Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.
4. Can I withhold rent if my landlord refuses repairs?
   No. Saskatchewan law does not allow you to withhold rent for repairs. You must pay rent as usual, but you can seek an order through the ORT.
5. Where can I find more on landlord and tenant repair duties?
   See Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for details.

How To Take Action on a Maintenance Dispute in Saskatchewan

1. How do I apply to the ORT for repairs?
   Complete Form 5 (Tenant Application), attach your evidence, and submit it to the Office of Residential Tenancies. Contact them for filing instructions.
2. How do I gather evidence for my complaint?
   Take clear photos, keep written/text communication, log all dates and responses, and save all relevant receipts or records.
3. How do I prepare for the hearing?
   Review all documents, organize your evidence, and be ready to clearly explain the problem at the scheduled hearing.

Key Takeaways

• In Saskatchewan, landlords must make repairs and keep rentals safe; tenants must promptly report problems.
• If your landlord won't repair, you can apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies for legal help.
• Document everything and use the proper forms to increase your chance of success.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Saskatchewan Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) – Filing applications, guidebooks, and tenant FAQs
• Saskatchewan Legal Aid – legalaid.sk.ca
• Support for renters: Provincial renting and leasing portal

---

1. Saskatchewan, Residential Tenancies Act, 2006

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