Rental Rights for Newcomers and Refugees in Saskatchewan

Arriving in Saskatchewan as a newcomer or refugee can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding your rights as a renter. Knowing what to expect—and what you’re entitled to—is key to securing safe, affordable housing and protecting yourself from unfair treatment. This guide will help you understand key protections, processes, and resources available to newcomers and refugees renting a home in Saskatchewan.

Who Handles Tenancy Rights in Saskatchewan?

In Saskatchewan, rental rights and landlord-tenant disputes are overseen by the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT). This government office is your main point of contact if there’s a problem with your rental situation, such as disputes about your lease, deposits, repairs, or if you need help understanding your rights and responsibilities.

Your Rights as a Newcomer or Refugee Tenant

Saskatchewan’s laws protect all tenants equally, regardless of citizenship or immigration status. The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (RTA) is the primary legislation setting out these rights.

• Protection from discrimination: Landlords cannot refuse to rent to you because you are new to Canada, a refugee, or because of your ethnic background, religion, family status, or other protected grounds under human rights law.
• Right to a written agreement: You are entitled to a tenancy agreement outlining the terms of your rental, including rent, rules, and responsibilities.
• Right to privacy and safe living conditions: Your landlord must provide a safe, healthy home and must give you written notice before entering your unit (except in emergencies). For more, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.
• Security deposit rules: Landlords can ask for a security deposit, but it can’t exceed one month’s rent and must follow provincial rules. Learn more in Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Summary: Tenants, including newcomers and refugees, are protected against unfair treatment or discrimination in Saskatchewan’s rental market.

Important Forms and How to Use Them

Making sense of the paperwork is crucial for safe, legal renting. Here are some official forms you might need as a tenant in Saskatchewan:

• Notice of Entry (Form 5): If your landlord needs to enter your rental unit for repairs or inspections (outside an emergency), they must give you a Notice of Entry (Form 5) at least 24 hours ahead of time. Example: Your landlord wants to check the heating, and you receive this notice in writing. You do not have to let them in without proper notice.
• Security Deposit Return Application (Form 12): When moving out, if you believe your landlord is unfairly keeping your deposit, you can submit a Security Deposit Return Application (Form 12) to the ORT. Example: You cleaned and repaired everything, but didn’t get your deposit back—this form can help you claim it.
• Application for Hearing (Form 6): If you are facing eviction or a serious dispute, you can file an Application for Hearing (Form 6) with the ORT, who will review your case in a hearing.

These forms are available from the Saskatchewan Government’s official tenancy forms page.

Steps to Protect Yourself as a Newcomer/Refugee Tenant

It’s important to take a few practical steps when moving into a rental to ensure your rights and finances are protected.

• Always get a written rental agreement and keep a copy.
• Document the condition of your rental with photos at move-in and move-out—this can help with deposit disputes.
• Ask for receipts for any payments, especially rent and deposits.
• Know how much notice is required for moving out or for rent increases (check your agreement and the RTA).

Tip: Before paying a deposit or signing, check that the landlord is the true property owner. Don’t be afraid to ask for identification or proof of ownership.

After You’ve Moved In: Rights and Responsibilities

After moving in, you and your landlord both have ongoing duties. You must pay rent on time, keep the property clean, and follow any agreed rules. Your landlord must do repairs and respect your privacy. For a full understanding after you settle in, read What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Common Problems: What to Do

If you experience unfair rent increases, unsafe conditions, or harassment, document everything and reach out to the Office of Residential Tenancies. The ORT can help resolve disputes or provide information about your legal options. Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for alternative options if you need to move quickly or compare available rentals.

Relevant Legislation

The main law covering landlord and tenant relationships in Saskatchewan is the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006. This law sets basic rules on leases, deposits, rent payments, repairs, and reasons for eviction.

If you are interested in tenant rules and rights in neighboring provinces, you can compare them to Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

FAQ: Newcomers & Refugees Renting in Saskatchewan

1. Can a landlord refuse to rent to me if I am a newcomer or refugee?
   No. Saskatchewan’s laws prohibit discrimination by landlords based on your immigration status, race, religion, or other protected characteristics. You have equal rights as any tenant.
2. What documents do I need to rent an apartment in Saskatchewan?
   You may be asked for identification, proof of income, or references, but a landlord cannot require you to show a Canadian credit history or citizenship if you are new here. Make sure to get a written rental agreement.
3. How do I get my security deposit back?
   If your landlord does not return your deposit within 7 business days of moving out, you can submit a Security Deposit Return Application (Form 12) to the ORT.
4. What if I face a sudden eviction as a refugee?
   You are protected under the law. If you receive an eviction notice and cannot resolve the problem, file an Application for Hearing (Form 6) with the ORT for help.
5. Where can I get help in my language?
   Many newcomer organizations and the Office of Residential Tenancies can connect you with translated resources or interpretation services.

Conclusion: What to Remember as a Newcomer or Refugee Tenant

• Saskatchewan’s laws protect all tenants, including newcomers and refugees, from discrimination and unfair practices.
• Key forms like Notice of Entry, Security Deposit Return, and Application for Hearing are available to support you.
• Help is always available from the Office of Residential Tenancies if problems arise. Always keep documentation and learn your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): Tenant complaints, forms, hearings, and information
• Saskatchewan Intercultural Association: Supports for newcomers and refugees, including housing education
• Newcomer Support Services: Advocacy, interpretation, and tenant guide resources
• Canada's best rental listings platform: Compare rental options and search by city, price, or needs
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan: Full facts and FAQ for tenants in Saskatchewan

---

1. Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT), Saskatchewan
2. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)
3. Official tenancy forms, Saskatchewan government

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy