Rent Control Exemptions in Saskatchewan: A Tenant’s Guide

Navigating rent increases can be stressful, especially if you’re unsure whether rent control applies to your Saskatchewan rental unit. Understanding how rent control exemptions work in the province—plus your rights as a tenant—can help you avoid surprises and confidently manage your housing situation.

Understanding Rent Control and Exemptions in Saskatchewan

Unlike some other Canadian provinces, Saskatchewan does not have strict statutory rent control limits. This means that, in general, there is no maximum percentage by which a landlord can increase rent. However, provincial law still sets out notice periods and some conditions landlords must follow under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006¹.

Some housing situations are specifically exempt from these rules. It’s important to know which types of rentals are covered and which are not—so you can understand your rights and responsibilities in the rare cases where exemptions apply.

What Types of Rentals Are Exempt?

Under Saskatchewan law, the following rental situations are typically exempt from the standard rules for residential tenancies:

• Personal care homes, correctional facilities, and certain student housing run by educational institutions
• Units where tenancy is under other specific legislation (such as co-op housing or accommodation provided under an employment contract)
• Rental units used for vacation purposes

For most privately rented apartments, houses, or condos in Saskatchewan, the Residential Tenancies Act still applies—including rules around rent increases notice and process. For more details on your rights in general, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

Rules for Rent Increases When Exemptions Apply

If your unit is not exempt and is covered by the Act, remember:

• Landlords must provide at least two months’ written notice before raising your rent
• Rent cannot be increased during a fixed-term lease until renewal
• No limit exists on the amount of increase, unless otherwise agreed in your lease or covered by special housing programs

If your unit is exempt (for example, student residence or personal care home), you may not be protected by these notice periods or increase restrictions. Always review your contract and ask for clarification in writing if you’re unsure about your unit's status.

Common Tenant Questions: How Do You Know If You’re Covered?

To check if your rental is exempt or protected:

• Ask your landlord what type of housing your unit qualifies as—and request written confirmation
• Review your lease: does it mention special housing programs or institutional housing?
• Contact the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) for clarification

Essential Forms for Disputing Rent Increases or Clarifying Exemptions

If you believe your landlord is trying to raise your rent without proper notice, or you think your unit should not be exempt from the Act, you can dispute the increase.

• Application for an Order (RTB-1): This form is used by tenants to apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies to dispute issues such as improper rent increases or to clarify whether a rental is exempt from the Act. Download the RTB-1 form here. To use it, fill out your details, clearly state your dispute (for instance, "My landlord provided less than two months’ notice for a rent increase"), and attach any supporting documents.
• Notice of Rent Increase: Landlords must use an approved form to notify tenants of a rent increase. If you haven’t received this, ask your landlord for a copy, or refer them to the Notice of Rent Increase Form.

When submitting a form, include supporting documentation such as a copy of your lease, any written communications with your landlord, and the notice you received.

What to Do if You Receive a Rent Increase or Exemption Notice

If your landlord claims your unit is exempt from rent control or you receive a notice of rent increase:

• Request written proof of the exemption
• Check your original lease and compare it with the types of exempt rentals listed above
• If you’re not certain, contact the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT)
• File an application with the ORT if you wish to challenge the rent increase

While rent increases can be stressful, official guidance and dispute processes are available to support tenants. For a more detailed overview of rent increases, you may also find Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know helpful.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Rent Control Exemptions in Saskatchewan

1. What types of rental units are exempt from Saskatchewan’s residential tenancy laws? Most private rentals are covered by the Residential Tenancies Act, but student residences, personal care homes, vacation rentals, and certain institutional housing may be exempt.
2. How much notice does my landlord need to give for a rent increase? In covered units, landlords must provide at least two months’ written notice before raising rent.
3. What can I do if I believe my landlord is ignoring rent control rules? You can file an Application for an Order (Form RTB-1) with the Office of Residential Tenancies to challenge improper rent increases or disputes about exemptions.
4. Can my rent be increased at any time? No, for fixed-term leases, rent cannot be increased until the term expires. If you are on a month-to-month agreement, two months’ notice is required for covered units.
5. Where can I learn more about my rights as a tenant in Saskatchewan? See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan for a full overview.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Most Saskatchewan tenants are not subject to strict rent control limits, but notice rules apply
• Some rentals are exempt—always check your unit type and ask your landlord or the ORT if unsure
• Use official forms and dispute processes if you feel your rights are at risk

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): Handles tenancy disputes, rent increases, and exemption clarification
• Government of Saskatchewan — Renting and Leasing: Official tenant information and forms
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan: Easy-to-read guide to your rights and obligations

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1. Saskatchewan's Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
2. Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): The provincial tribunal for rental disputes.

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