Maintenance & Repairs: New Tenant Guide for Saskatchewan

Moving into your first rental in Saskatchewan? Understanding rental maintenance and repairs is key for keeping your home comfortable and safe. As a tenant, you have rights and responsibilities when it comes to repairs. This guide explains who handles what, how to request repairs, and what steps to take if things go wrong—so you can rent with confidence.

What Are Landlord and Tenant Maintenance Duties?

Under The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, both landlords and tenants have responsibilities for keeping rental properties safe and livable. In general:

• Landlords must keep the property in good repair and meet health, safety, and housing standards.
• Tenants must keep their unit reasonably clean and not cause damage on purpose or through neglect.

Common examples include landlords fixing leaking roofs and tenants promptly reporting any broken appliances. For more details on shared responsibilities, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Types of Repairs: Routine vs. Emergency

Repairs usually fall into two main categories:

• Routine repairs (e.g., dripping taps, malfunctioning appliances) should be reported to your landlord as soon as possible. Landlords generally must address them within a reasonable timeframe.
• Emergency repairs (e.g., loss of heat in winter, broken plumbing, major leaks) require prompt attention. You should notify the landlord immediately—ideally in writing and by phone.

Sometimes, tenants are allowed to arrange emergency repairs and deduct costs from rent if the landlord can’t be reached within a reasonable period. Always check with the Office of Residential Tenancies before acting.

Reporting a Maintenance Issue: Action Steps

• Document the problem (photos or video can help).
• Notify the landlord in writing (email is best, or use a letter), explaining the issue clearly and requesting repairs.
• Keep copies of all communications.
• Follow up if there is no response within a reasonable time—typically a few days for urgent repairs, or up to a week for non-urgent matters.

Having trouble getting repairs addressed? A detailed initial inspection report can help resolve disputes. See the Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants for best practices when moving in.

Making a Formal Repair Request in Saskatchewan

If the issue isn’t resolved informally, you can take further steps by applying to the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT), Saskatchewan’s government tribunal for rental disputes. You can request an order that your landlord complete repairs or that your rent be reduced if proper repairs aren’t completed.

Important Forms and How to Use Them (Saskatchewan)

• Application for Claim (Form 6):
  
  • When to use: If the landlord doesn’t make necessary repairs after you’ve made a written request, complete Form 6 to apply to the ORT. For example, if your heating is out and the landlord doesn’t act, this is the form you submit.
  • Download Application for Claim (Form 6)
• Notice to Landlord (Written Notice):
  
  • When to use: There’s no specific form for initial repair requests, but always provide written notice by email or letter. Keep a copy for your records.

Both forms and further details are available from the Government of Saskatchewan: Renting and Leasing Forms.

Potential Consequences for Tenants and Landlords

Failing to report or fix problems can lead to unwanted consequences. If you ignore needed repairs for damage you caused, you may lose part of your deposit or even face eviction. If a landlord ignores major repairs, you can seek orders, compensation, or permission to end your lease.

Tip: Always communicate about repairs in writing and keep records—this protects your rights if a dispute arises.

Related Health and Safety Concerns

Inadequate repairs can lead to health hazards, from mold to faulty wiring or pests. For more on staying safe, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Moving Out? Don’t Forget Final Inspections

Before leaving, ensure repairs are addressed and the unit is left in good condition. This helps protect your deposit. Explore resources like Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home for more on move-in and move-out best practices.

For continued up-to-date provincial info, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

If you’re searching for a new home, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings with interactive tools and up-to-date postings.

FAQ: Saskatchewan Maintenance and Repairs

1. Who pays for regular wear-and-tear repairs in Saskatchewan?
   Landlords must pay for ordinary wear-and-tear; tenants are not responsible for these costs. Tenants are only liable for damages caused intentionally or by neglect.
2. How quickly must a landlord complete emergency repairs?
   Landlords must act as soon as reasonably possible, usually within 24–48 hours for emergencies like heat loss in winter. Notify them right away, and escalate if they don’t respond promptly.
3. Can I hire my own contractor if the landlord ignores repairs?
   Not without permission unless it’s an emergency and you’ve tried to contact your landlord. Always try to reach the landlord and the ORT before spending your own money.
4. Is mold from leaks the landlord’s responsibility?
   If mold is due to leaks or external factors, it’s typically the landlord’s duty to repair both the leak and the mold damage. Tenants must promptly report such issues.
5. Do I need to let my landlord enter to do repairs?
   Yes, but your landlord must give you 24 hours’ written notice before entering, except for emergencies.

How To: Handle a Repair Request in Saskatchewan

1. How do I properly notify my landlord of a needed repair?
   Write a clear email or letter with detail on the problem and keep a record. Include photos if possible and specify if it’s urgent.
2. What if my landlord refuses or doesn’t respond?
   If no action in a reasonable time, submit a written complaint to the Office of Residential Tenancies using Application for Claim (Form 6).
3. How can I document a repair issue for evidence?
   Take clear photos, collect witness statements if relevant, and keep all written communication and receipts related to the problem.
4. How do I apply for a repair order from the ORT?
   Fill out Form 6 and provide copies of your notices and evidence. Submit via mail, email, or in person at an ORT office; include the application fee.
5. How can I check my rights for specific issues?
   Visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan or contact the ORT for detailed guidance.

Key Takeaways

• Report all repairs in writing and keep records.
• Use official forms and follow proper steps if problems aren’t fixed.
• Contact the Office of Residential Tenancies for unresolved issues.

Staying informed helps ensure your rental remains safe and comfortable for the long term.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Saskatchewan: Problems with Your Rental Unit
• Government of Saskatchewan - Renting and Leasing
• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT)
• Contact ORT: 1-888-215-2222 or ort@gov.sk.ca

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1. Saskatchewan Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Full text)
2. Government of Saskatchewan. Renting and Leasing Official Portal
3. Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): Official Website

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