Legal Support for Tenants Facing Eviction in Saskatchewan

If you're a tenant in Saskatchewan and have received an eviction notice or are facing a dispute with your landlord, it's crucial to understand your rights and know where to turn for help. Saskatchewan has clear laws to protect tenants, and several free or low-cost resources can support you in challenging an eviction or seeking a fair resolution.

Understanding Eviction Laws and Your Rights in Saskatchewan

In Saskatchewan, the governing law for rental relationships is the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1]. This law sets out the circumstances under which a landlord can evict a tenant, your protections as a renter, and the formal process landlords must follow. Evictions generally require the landlord to give proper notice and use official forms.

For more province-specific details, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

Common Reasons for Eviction

• Non-payment of rent
• Breach of lease terms (such as property damage or illegal activity)
• Landlord needs possession for their own use or major renovations

Landlords must follow the legal steps, providing written notice and allowing tenants the right to dispute the eviction through the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT), the official tribunal in Saskatchewan (learn more here).

Getting Legal Support for an Eviction Dispute

If you disagree with an eviction or need advice, there are several ways tenants can access support:

• Tenant advocacy services: Local organizations and legal clinics can offer advice and may help represent you at a hearing.
• Legal Aid Saskatchewan: May provide free legal assistance to qualifying low-income tenants (Legal Aid Saskatchewan).
• Information from the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): ORT staff offer guidance about the process, but not legal advice.

Essential Forms for Tenants in Saskatchewan

Official forms are a key part of the eviction process. The main forms you may need include:

• Form 7 – Application for an Order of Possession
  When used: Landlords use this to apply to the ORT to evict a tenant. For example, if you received a Form 7, it means the landlord is seeking possession and a hearing will be set.
  View Form 7 (Application for Order of Possession)
• Notice of Hearing
  When used: This document notifies you of the date, time, and method (in-person or remote) of your hearing at the ORT. You must attend or send your written response by the deadline listed.
• Tenant Response/Statement Form
  When used: Tenants use this form to respond to an Application for an Order of Possession. For instance, if you believe the eviction isn't justified, submit your written response with reasons and supporting evidence prior to the hearing.
  View Sample Response Form

Full instructions and downloadable forms are available from the official ORT forms site.

Attending and Preparing for an ORT Hearing

When an eviction dispute cannot be resolved between the tenant and landlord, the Office of Residential Tenancies will schedule a hearing. Here are steps for tenants to prepare:

• Review your Notice of Hearing for the date and time
• Gather any evidence (such as correspondence, payment records, or photos)
• Submit your Tenant Response/Statement before the deadline
• Consider getting legal advice or support
• Attend your hearing in person, by phone, or online as indicated

The hearing offers you a chance to explain your case or dispute the landlord's claims. The ORT will make a binding decision after both sides present their evidence.

Your Rights and Obligations During the Eviction Process

Throughout the eviction process in Saskatchewan, tenants still have important rights and obligations. You must continue to pay rent and follow your rental agreement, even if facing eviction, until an ORT order says otherwise. For a broader overview of your responsibilities and what is expected from both parties, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Understanding your legal rights ahead of time can be beneficial. If you’re worried about moving or damage claims, check our advice on Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

Need to find a new home quickly? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for a wide range of listings.

FAQ: Legal Support and Evictions in Saskatchewan

1. Can my landlord evict me without giving notice in Saskatchewan?
   No. Except in emergencies or if you abandon the unit, your landlord must serve you the correct written notice using ORT-approved forms and provide a fair amount of time based on the reason for eviction.
2. What can I do if I disagree with my eviction notice?
   Submit a written response to the ORT as soon as possible, attend the hearing, and present evidence or witnesses to support your side.
3. Where can I get free legal help as a tenant in Saskatchewan?
   Try Legal Aid Saskatchewan, a community legal clinic, or tenant advocacy services. The ORT can explain the process but cannot give legal advice.
4. What happens if I lose my eviction hearing?
   If the ORT orders eviction, you'll receive a date to vacate. Failing to leave could allow the landlord to get sheriff assistance to remove you. You may be able to appeal, so act fast and get legal advice.
5. Will I lose my security deposit if I'm evicted?
   Not automatically. Your security deposit may only be used to cover unpaid rent or property damage—see the rules about deposits for more detail.

How To: Respond to an Eviction Notice in Saskatchewan

1. How do I respond to an eviction notice from my landlord?
   Carefully review your eviction notice, download the Tenant Response/Statement form from the ORT, fill in your reasons, and submit it along with any evidence before your scheduled hearing.
2. How do I prepare for my hearing at the Office of Residential Tenancies?
   Collect documents like your lease, rent receipts, emails or texts, witness statements, and pictures to support your case, and be ready to explain your side.
3. How do I find legal support for my eviction dispute in Saskatchewan?
   Contact Legal Aid Saskatchewan, a tenant advocacy service, or a local community legal clinic for free or low-cost advice and possible representation.

Key Takeaways

• Tenants have the right to fair notice, a hearing, and legal support in Saskatchewan eviction disputes
• Responding quickly to notices and preparing evidence improves your chances at the ORT
• Seek legal advice and review resources to protect your housing situation

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) – Dispute resolution, forms, and information
• Legal Aid Saskatchewan – Free legal support for those who qualify
• Local community legal clinics and tenant advocacy groups
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)

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