Office of Residential Tenancies ORT Application

Dispute Resolution & LTB Saskatchewan 3 min read · published March 09, 2026 Flag of Saskatchewan

If you are a tenant in Saskatchewan dealing with a rent dispute, eviction notice, unpaid repair, or deposit problem, the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT)[1] is the provincial tribunal that handles tenancy disputes. This page explains when to apply, what forms to use, common deadlines, and how to prepare practical evidence so your case is clear and organized. The guidance is written for tenants who are not legal experts and focuses on steps you can take before, during, and after filing. If you need to know how to report habitability or repair problems, or how to respond to a landlord notice, see practical sections below and related tenant resources.

What the ORT does and when to apply

The ORT hears disputes between tenants and landlords about rent arrears, damage to rental units, deposit returns, eviction orders, and access or maintenance problems. Apply to the ORT if informal negotiation hasn’t resolved the issue or when a landlord has served a formal notice and you need a binding decision.[2]

Keep a clear timeline of events and copies of all notices and receipts.

Key forms and where to find them

Use the official ORT forms to start or respond to an application. Common documents include the tenant application form and the landlord response form. Read the form instructions and attach evidence like dated photos, repair requests, and rent receipts before filing.[3]

  • File the correct application form and pay any fee required by the ORT.
  • File within any deadline given on a notice or within the statutory time limit for the issue.
  • Attach clear evidence: photos, receipts, repair logs, and written communication.

Preparing for a hearing

Once your application is accepted, you will get a hearing date and instructions. Use the hearing notice to confirm deadlines for submitting documents and to see whether the hearing will be by phone, video, or in person. Bring originals and copies of all documents and plan a short, factual timeline to present at the hearing.

Organizing documents in chronological order makes hearings easier for everyone.
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Practical steps tenants should take now

  • Document each issue: date-stamped photos, written requests for repair, and notes of phone conversations.
  • Keep copies of all notices and any signed rental agreement or lease pages.
  • Keep rent payment records and receipts to show amounts paid and any outstanding balance.
Tenants can represent themselves at ORT hearings or choose to bring an advocate.

Common tenant problems the ORT can help with

  • Eviction orders and unlawful notices.
  • Repair and habitability disputes when landlords do not act.
  • Security deposit returns and deductions.

FAQ

How long does it take to get a hearing date after applying?
Timing varies with caseload, but you will receive a hearing date and instructions from the ORT after your application is processed; urgent issues may be scheduled sooner.
Do I need a lawyer to apply or attend?
No. Many tenants represent themselves, though you may bring a lawyer or an advocate if you prefer.
What happens if the landlord doesn’t follow an ORT order?
An ORT order is binding; if a landlord fails to comply, ask the ORT about enforcement steps or file a request for enforcement.

How-To

  1. Gather all documents: your lease, notices, photos, receipts, and any written repair requests.
  2. Complete the official ORT application form carefully and attach evidence as directed on the form.
  3. Pay any filing fee required or request a fee waiver if eligible, following the instructions on the forms page.
  4. File the application by the method the ORT accepts (mail, in-person drop-off, or online if available) and note the deadline on the confirmation.
  5. Prepare a simple hearing summary of facts with dates and a list of documents to submit to the tribunal.
  6. Attend the hearing on time, present facts calmly, and follow the tribunal directions for questions and evidence submission.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) - Government of Saskatchewan
  2. [2] Residential Tenancies Act (Saskatchewan)
  3. [3] ORT forms and filing instructions - Government of Saskatchewan

For related tenant guidance, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them and How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant's Guide. Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings.

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Sarah Mitchell
Sarah Mitchell

Senior Housing Rights Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Sarah has spent over a decade researching tenant legislation across Western Canada, with a particular focus on British Columbia and Alberta. She holds a certificate in Housing Policy from Simon Fraser University and has contributed to several housing advocacy organizations.

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