Rent and Deposit Laws for Tenants in Saskatchewan

Renting a home in Saskatchewan means understanding your rights and responsibilities when it comes to rent and deposits. The province has clear laws to protect tenants—like you—whether it’s how much a landlord can ask for a deposit, what rules apply to rent payments and increases, or how to get your deposit back when you move out. This article breaks down Saskatchewan’s specific rent and deposit regulations, explains common forms, and points you to useful official resources.

How Rent Payments Work in Saskatchewan

In Saskatchewan, both tenants and landlords have rights and obligations regarding rent payments. Rent is generally due at the time specified in your lease and cannot be increased at random. Tenants can pay by cash, cheque, or another method agreed to in writing. Your landlord must give you a signed receipt for each rent payment if you ask for one.

Security Deposits: How Much, When, and Your Rights

The maximum security deposit a landlord may charge in Saskatchewan is no more than one month’s rent. The deposit must be paid either in one lump sum when signing the lease, or in two equal instalments (the first when the lease is signed, the second no later than two months after move-in).

• Landlords must deposit your security deposit in a trust account and may be required to pay interest on it.
• Deposits can only be used towards unpaid rent, damages (beyond normal wear and tear), or other lease breaches.
• Your landlord must provide you with a written statement if any deposit funds are kept.

For a deeper understanding, check Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Legislation and Regulatory Body

All rental relationships in Saskatchewan are governed by the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT). The main law is the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)¹. The ORT handles disputes about rent, deposits, evictions, and landlords’ and tenants’ rights.

Rent Increases: Notice and Rules

Landlords generally can only increase rent once every 12 months for existing tenants. Written notice must be given:

• Yearly or Monthly Leases: At least 12 weeks’ (about three months) written notice is required.
• Fixed Term Leases: No increase allowed during the term unless your lease specifically allows for it and you agree.

The notice must include the new rent amount, when the increase takes effect, and be served in person or by registered mail.

For more on challenging rent increases and your options, visit Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know.

What Happens if Rent is Late or Not Paid?

If you miss a rent payment, the landlord may serve a notice to end your tenancy. It’s important to communicate with your landlord if payment will be late. If you disagree about rent owed, you can apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies for a hearing.

If you receive a notice about late rent, review it carefully and respond promptly. You may be able to prevent eviction by paying the overdue amount quickly.

For day-to-day guidance on paying rent, check Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

Return of Your Deposit: Inspections and Deductions

When you move out, your landlord must do a move-out inspection with you present (if you request it). This is to see if there’s any damage beyond normal wear and tear and determine if any part of your deposit will be withheld.

The landlord must return your security deposit, with interest, within seven business days after you move out, unless there’s a dispute over damages or unpaid rent. If your landlord keeps any part of the deposit, they must provide a written explanation.

Relevant Forms for Tenants

• Notice to Tenant: Used if your landlord wants to end your tenancy due to non-payment or other causes. This must conform to Form 7 – 'Notice to Vacate' (official form). If you receive this notice and do not agree, you have the right to dispute it through the ORT.
• Application for Hearing: If you have a deposit dispute or other issue, tenants can file Form 5 – 'Application for Hearing' ( official form). Example: You move out but your landlord keeps your deposit without good reason—use this form to request a hearing.

What Happens in Rental Disputes?

If you and your landlord disagree about a rent increase, deposit return, or any tenancy issue, you can apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies for a hearing. The process is guided, tenant-friendly, and decisions are enforceable.

For more details on tenant and landlord rights in your province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much security deposit can a landlord ask for in Saskatchewan?
   Landlords can require up to one month’s rent as a security deposit, paid in one or two instalments according to the law.
2. How much notice must a landlord give for a rent increase?
   In most cases, at least 12 weeks’ written notice is required for annual or monthly leases before a rent increase.
3. Can my landlord keep my deposit for routine cleaning or wear and tear?
   No. Deposits can only be withheld for unpaid rent or damage beyond normal wear and tear. Routine cleaning or minor wear are not valid reasons.
4. When should I get my deposit back after moving out?
   Within seven business days, unless there’s a dispute or deduction—with a written explanation if any funds are kept.
5. Where do I go if I have a dispute over rent or deposits?
   You can apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies for help.

How-To: Steps for Disputing a Deposit Withholding

1. How do I get my deposit back if my landlord refuses?
   1. Ask your landlord for a written statement detailing any deductions.
   2. If you disagree, fill out Form 5 – 'Application for Hearing' (official form).
   3. Submit the form to the ORT and attend your scheduled hearing.
   4. Bring move-in/out inspection reports, photos, and receipts as evidence.
2. How do I challenge a rent increase I think is unfair?
   1. Check if proper notice was given and if the increase follows the law.
   2. Contact your landlord to discuss, or file Form 5 to the ORT for a hearing if unresolved.
3. What should I do if I receive a Notice to Vacate for late rent?
   1. Read the notice carefully—check dates and reasons.
   2. If you can pay in full quickly, do so and get a receipt.
   3. If you disagree, submit an 'Application for Hearing' to the ORT with supporting documents.

Key Takeaways

• Saskatchewan limits deposits to one month’s rent and requires written statements for any deductions.
• Landlords must give three months’ notice for rent increases and follow strict procedures for deposit returns.
• Use official ORT forms and processes for any disputes, and know your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Saskatchewan Guide for Tenants
• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) - Contact Information: Phone 1-888-215-2222
• Find advocacy support at local Saskatchewan legal aid offices or tenant resource centres
• Download official forms and guidance: ORT Forms and Documents

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)
2. Office of Residential Tenancies
3. Renting and Leasing: Information for Tenants

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