Many renters in Saskatchewan encounter listings or verbal promises that overstate safety features or amenities. If a landlord advertises a unit with working smoke alarms, reliable heating, or included appliances that are not present or functional, tenants have options to challenge those claims and seek remedies. This article explains what the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 requires in Saskatchewan, how to document misrepresentation, the official bodies and forms you may need, and practical steps tenants can take to report false listings and protect their rights as renters.
What the law says in Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan’s rules for rental agreements and landlord obligations are set out under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006. The Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) administers complaints and dispute resolution for residential tenancy matters in the province[1][2]. If a listing or a landlord’s statement about safety equipment or included amenities is false, the ORT can consider fines, orders, or remedies depending on the severity and evidence.
Common misrepresentations and possible penalties
Examples of misrepresentation include claiming that a unit has required safety devices or that certain appliances or services are included when they are not. Penalties vary with the nature of the breach and can include fines and orders to correct the listing or provide compensation.
- Safety code violations claimed but not met, such as non-working smoke or carbon monoxide detectors.
- False statements about required heating or hot water being provided.
- Misstated security or building code compliance that affects tenant safety.
How to document and report misrepresentation
Good documentation increases the chance of a successful complaint. Start by saving the original listing, screenshots, emails or texts, and any rental advertisement. Take dated photos or video showing the missing or non-functional safety device or amenity. Contact the landlord in writing to request correction or repair and keep a record of that communication.
- Gather dated photos, screenshots, messages, and receipts as evidence.
- Contact the landlord in writing and request a fix; keep copies of that message.
- If the landlord does not resolve it, prepare to file an application with the Office of Residential Tenancies using the official form and directions[3].
- Note and respect any filing deadlines or windows for disputes under the Act.
Filing official complaints and the forms to use
To start a formal complaint, tenants typically complete the ORT application for dispute resolution or the application for an order, depending on the remedy sought. For example, a tenant who rented a unit advertised with included heat that is absent could complete the ORT application form, attach evidence (screenshots, photos, messages), and explain the outcome sought (repair, rent abatement, or compensation). The ORT website lists current forms and fee details to submit with your application[3].
Practical steps tenants can take
- Collect and organize all evidence in one folder before filing a complaint.
- Fill out the correct ORT application form and include a clear statement of facts and desired remedy.
- Use official ORT contact channels to confirm receipt and next steps.
- Attend any scheduled hearings or provide requested documents by the stated deadline.
FAQ
- Can a landlord be fined for advertising incorrect safety features?
- Yes. If an investigation finds that a landlord knowingly misrepresented safety features, the ORT can impose fines or orders to fix the problem and may award compensation to affected tenants.
- What if the listing is corrected after I move in?
- If a listing was false at the time of your agreement, you can still file a complaint; corrective action after the fact does not prevent an investigation or remedies for impacted tenants.
- Do I need a lawyer to file with the ORT?
- No. Tenants can file on their own using the ORT forms, though legal advice may help in complex cases.
How-To
- Gather all evidence: screenshots, photos, messages, receipts, and dates.
- Complete the appropriate Office of Residential Tenancies application form and attach evidence.
- Submit the form to the ORT by the method listed on their site and keep confirmation.
- Prepare for the hearing by organizing a concise timeline and copies of evidence to present.
Help and Support / Resources
- Office of Residential Tenancies, Government of Saskatchewan
- Residential tenancy information, Government of Saskatchewan
- ORT forms and fees, Government of Saskatchewan
