Rent Control Laws in Saskatchewan: What Tenants Need to Know

Rent control is an important issue for tenants across Canada, but the laws vary from province to province. In Saskatchewan, understanding how rent control works helps you avoid surprises when your landlord gives you notice of a rent increase. This guide explains the essentials of rent regulation, how and when your rent can change, and how to protect your rights under Saskatchewan law.

Who Oversees Tenant Rights in Saskatchewan?

In Saskatchewan, residential tenancies are overseen by the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT). This official tribunal handles disputes, enforces the laws, and provides guidance for both tenants and landlords.

Is There Rent Control in Saskatchewan?

Unlike some provinces, there is no formal rent control or a cap on the amount a landlord can increase rent in Saskatchewan. This means landlords can generally set rent at market levels and increase it by any amount, as long as they follow the rules for notice and frequency set out in the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1].

How Often Can Rent Be Increased?

• For month-to-month or week-to-week leases: Once every 12 months.
• For fixed-term leases: Landlords can only raise rent at the start of a new term, unless the agreement says otherwise.

Landlords must provide written notice before increasing the rent. The notice period depends on whether the landlord is a member of the Saskatchewan Landlord Association (SLA):

• Non-SLA member landlords: At least 2 months’ written notice.
• SLA member landlords: At least 1 month’s written notice.

Need clarity on how rent payments work or your obligations as a tenant? See Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips for more.

What Must Landlords Include in a Rent Increase Notice?

• The address of the rental property
• The current rent amount and new rent amount
• The date the increase takes effect
• Landlord’s signature and the date the notice was given

Written notices must be delivered in person or by registered mail. If a landlord fails to give correct notice, the rent increase is not valid.

Your Rights When Facing a Rent Increase

Tenants are protected from unexpected or unjust rent increases in several ways. For example, if you receive a rent increase notice that does not follow the proper timeline or information requirements, you can dispute the increase through the Office of Residential Tenancies.

• If you disagree with the rent increase, you must apply to the ORT for a hearing before the date the increase takes effect, using the proper form.
• Remember, your landlord cannot evict you simply for raising a concern about your rent.

Saskatchewan’s law does not set a specific percentage for allowable rent increases, which is different from provinces with rent control. If you want to compare tenancy laws in other provinces, check out Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

Forms for Disputing Rent Increases

Application for Hearing (Form 7)

Form name: Application for Hearing (Form 7)
When to use: If you believe a rent increase is invalid or the notice was improper, use this form to request a hearing at the ORT.
How to use: Complete the form, attach supporting documents (such as your rental agreement and notice), and submit it to the ORT before the new rent takes effect.
Official link: Download Application for Hearing (Form 7)

If you’re unsure what to do after you’ve signed your rental agreement, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement for next steps and responsibilities.

Deposits and Rent Increases

Security deposits in Saskatchewan cannot be increased, even if your rent goes up. Deposits can only be collected once, at the start of your tenancy, and are strictly regulated by law. For details on what you can expect concerning deposits, earnings interest, and getting your money back when you move out, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Useful Resources

• Saskatchewan Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
• Office of Residential Tenancies
• Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is there a maximum rent increase limit in Saskatchewan?
   No, Saskatchewan does not have a maximum limit on rent increases. Landlords can raise rent by any amount, but they must provide proper written notice and follow timing rules.
2. How much notice does a landlord have to give before increasing rent?
   At least 2 months for non-SLA member landlords, and at least 1 month if the landlord is a member of the Saskatchewan Landlord Association.
3. What can I do if I believe my rent increase is unfair or illegal?
   You can file an Application for Hearing (Form 7) with the Office of Residential Tenancies before the rent increase takes effect.
4. Are there rules about how security deposits change when rent increases?
   No, security deposits cannot be increased during your tenancy, even if your rent is raised.
5. Where can I learn more about my rights as a tenant in Saskatchewan?
   See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan for a comprehensive overview.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• No formal rent control in Saskatchewan, but notice rules protect tenants.
• Landlords must give proper advance written notice for any rent increase.
• Tenants can appeal improper or unfair increases at the Office of Residential Tenancies.
• Security deposits do not change if your rent rises.

Knowing these basics can help you plan for rent changes and protect your housing stability.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): Information, applications, dispute resolution, and general resources.
• Phone: 1-888-215-2222 (Saskatchewan)
• Email: ORT@gov.sk.ca
• Government of Saskatchewan: Housing and Renting Information
• Local tenant advocacy groups: Contact your city or community centre for tenant counselling services

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1. Saskatchewan Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
2. Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT)

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