Repair Rights for Tenants in Saskatchewan

Maintenance & Repairs Saskatchewan 3 min read · published March 09, 2026 Flag of Saskatchewan

As a tenant in Saskatchewan, understanding your rights when it comes to repairs and maintenance is crucial. Landlords have certain obligations to ensure the rental property is safe and livable, while tenants need to know what steps to take if these standards are not met.

Your Rights as a Tenant

Tenants in Saskatchewan have the right to live in a rental property that meets the basic health and safety standards as outlined by provincial law. The landlord is responsible for ensuring that the rental unit is in good repair and complies with health, safety, housing, and maintenance standards. This is detailed in the Residential Tenancies Act, 20061.

Landlords must maintain the unit to health and safety standards and address repair requests in a timely manner. Keep a written log of all communications, include photos and dates, and set a reasonable deadline for urgent issues.

Common Repair Issues

Some common issues tenants face include:

  • Leaky roofs or plumbing
  • Broken heating or air conditioning
  • Inoperable appliances included with the rental
  • Mould or pest infestations
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How to Address Repair Complaints

If you encounter any repair issues, follow these steps:

Informing the Landlord

Notify your landlord in writing about the repair needed. Provide details about the issue, and keep a copy of the communication for your records.

Allow for Prompt Repair

Give your landlord a reasonable amount of time to fix the issue. What is considered "reasonable" can vary depending on the urgency of the repair needed.

Filing a Complaint

If your landlord fails to address the issue, you can file a complaint with the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT). The ORT can help mediate the issue and, if necessary, make a determination. For more guidance on managing issues, visit the How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant’s Guide.

You might also find the Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities page helpful.

Tip: When you draft a repair request, be specific about dates, the exact location of the issue, and any immediate safety concerns to help the landlord respond promptly.

When to Use the Rental Repair Request Form

In Saskatchewan, if repairs are not completed in a reasonable timeframe, tenants can file a formal complaint through the Rental Repair Request Form. This form initiates a process whereby the Office of Residential Tenancies can intervene and potentially conduct an inspection or mandate repairs.

Tip: Always keep copies of all correspondence and document any repair issues with photos and notes.
If mould, water damage, or safety hazards are present, document with timestamps and report them in writing immediately; urgent issues may warrant expedited ORT involvement.

Official Tribunal for Tenants

If the matter remains unresolved, tenants may choose to take the issue to the Office of Residential Tenancies. For more information on this process, you can explore the Facts on Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

If you need further assistance, consult the following resources:

  1. What should I do if my landlord doesn't make repairs? Notify your landlord in writing and allow reasonable time for repairs. If unresolved, contact the Office of Residential Tenancies for assistance.
  2. What constitutes an emergency repair? An emergency repair involves issues that make the property unfit to live in, such as no heat in winter or severe water leaks.
  3. Can I withhold rent if repairs aren't made? Withholding rent without proper legal procedure can result in eviction. Instead, file a complaint with the Office of Residential Tenancies.
  4. What is considered a reasonable time for a repair? It varies; urgent repairs should be addressed immediately, while non-urgent repairs might take longer. Assess the issue's severity to gauge timing.
  5. Who can I contact for tenant legal advice in Saskatchewan? You can reach out to tenant associations or legal clinics in your area for personalized advice.
  1. How to report a repair issue to your landlord
    1. Document the issue with photos and notes.
    2. Write a formal repair request and send it to your landlord.
    3. Keep a copy of your request and follow up if needed.
  2. How to contact the Office of Residential Tenancies
    1. Visit the ORT website for contact details.
    2. Gather documentation related to your repair issue.
    3. Submit a formal complaint through the ORT portal or via mail.

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Sarah Mitchell
Sarah Mitchell

Senior Housing Rights Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Sarah has spent over a decade researching tenant legislation across Western Canada, with a particular focus on British Columbia and Alberta. She holds a certificate in Housing Policy from Simon Fraser University and has contributed to several housing advocacy organizations.

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