Rent and Deposit Rules for Saskatchewan Tenants

Renting in Saskatchewan comes with specific rules regarding rent, deposits, and how both are managed. As a tenant, it’s important to know your rights, the protections in place, and the procedures landlords must follow under provincial law. This guide shares up-to-date information on rent payments, security deposits, legal forms, and dispute procedures to help you feel secure in your rental journey.

How Rent and Deposits Work in Saskatchewan

When renting a home in Saskatchewan, two of the first things you’ll handle are the rent itself and the security deposit. Here's how each is treated by law:

• Rent is the regular payment you provide to live in the property. It can only be increased with proper notice and in compliance with legislation.
• Security deposit (sometimes called a damage deposit) is an amount you pay upfront, held by the landlord in trust, to cover potential damages or unpaid rent.

Maximum Security Deposit Allowed

Landlords in Saskatchewan can require a security deposit but cannot ask for more than one month’s rent. This helps ensure deposits remain reasonable and affordable for tenants.

When Is the Security Deposit Returned?

Your deposit should be returned within seven business days after your tenancy ends, provided you’ve met all conditions, such as leaving the property clean and undamaged (apart from normal wear and tear) and returning your keys. If deductions are made, the landlord must provide you with a breakdown of charges.

For a broader explanation of deposits and your rights, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Paying and Increasing Rent

Rent is usually due on the first day of each month unless your agreement says otherwise. Landlords must provide a written receipt for every rent payment upon request.

Rent Increases

• Landlords must give at least three months’ written notice before increasing rent.
• In most cases, rent can only be increased once every 12 months.
• Special rules apply to mobile home sites and subsidized housing.
• The notice must state the new rent amount and the effective date.

Learn more about negotiating and handling increases in Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know.

Paying Different Ways

You can pay rent via cash, cheque, e-transfer, or other agreed-upon methods. Always request receipts and keep records.

For practical rent payment tips and responsibilities, read Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

Key Forms and How to Use Them

Saskatchewan uses official forms for tenancy matters. These make your rights and duties clear, and can help if disagreements arise.

• Form 7 – Notice of Rent Increase: Used by landlords to give written notice of a rent increase. Tenants should receive this at least three months before the increase.
  Example: If your landlord wants to raise the rent, they must use this form to notify you. Download Form 7 from the Government of Saskatchewan.
• Form 5 – Claim for Security Deposit: Used by tenants or landlords to make a claim for the security deposit at the end of the tenancy.
  Example: If you move out and do not receive your deposit back in the legally required time, fill out this form to make a claim. Get Form 5 from the Government of Saskatchewan.

Saskatchewan tenants and landlords resolve disputes through the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT). The ORT provides forms, information, and a process to resolve disagreements.

What Rights Do Saskatchewan Tenants Have?

Your rights are protected under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 of Saskatchewan^[1]. Key rights include:

• Receiving proper notice of rent increases and security deposit claims
• Having your deposit safely held in trust
• Getting receipts for rent and any deposits paid
• Disputing unlawful rent increases or unfair deductions through the ORT
• Protection from eviction without a valid reason or due process

For a full list, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

Other Common Tenant Questions

• Landlords cannot charge extra “pet deposits” over the legal maximum
• Interest on security deposits must be paid annually, if applicable
• Landlords must provide written reasons for any deposit deductions

FAQ: Saskatchewan Rent and Deposit Rules

1. Can a landlord ask for more than one month’s rent as a security deposit in Saskatchewan?
   No. The law limits the deposit to a maximum of one month’s rent.
2. How much notice does my landlord need to give for a rent increase?
   At least three months’ written notice is required before the new rent takes effect.
3. What should I do if I don’t get my deposit back within seven business days?
   You can use Form 5 to file a claim with the Office of Residential Tenancies.
4. Do I have to pay interest on my deposit or does the landlord?
   The landlord must pay you any interest accrued on your deposit, usually calculated annually.
5. What happens if I disagree with a rent increase or deposit deduction?
   You can file an application with the Office of Residential Tenancies to review and resolve the dispute.

How To: Common Tenant Actions in Saskatchewan

1. How do I respond to a rent increase?
   Review the notice to ensure it gives at least three months’ warning and confirms your details. If you believe the increase is invalid, contact the Office of Residential Tenancies to dispute it.
2. How can I get my deposit back?
   After moving out, make sure you return your keys, provide your forwarding address in writing, and request your deposit. If it is not returned, use Form 5 to file a claim with the ORT.
3. How do I make a complaint about a landlord or rental unit?
   Document your issue with dates and evidence, seek resolution with your landlord first, and if unresolved, apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies.
4. How do I obtain a copy of my rental agreement?
   You are entitled to a written agreement. If you do not have one, request it from your landlord in writing.
5. How do I find a new rental home in Saskatchewan?
   Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for current Saskatchewan listings.

Key Takeaways

• Security deposits in Saskatchewan cannot exceed one month’s rent and must be returned (with interest) within seven business days after moving out.
• Rent can only be increased once every 12 months, with at least three months’ written notice.
• Know your rights, save your records, and use official forms and the ORT to resolve disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): Get information, forms, and dispute support.
• Saskatchewan Renting and Leasing: Official tenant and landlord resources.
• Saskatchewan Renters Rights: Advocacy and basic information for tenants in Saskatchewan.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)
2. Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT), Government of Saskatchewan
3. Form 5 – Claim for Security Deposit, Government of Saskatchewan
4. Form 7 – Notice of Rent Increase, Government of Saskatchewan

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