Reporting Non-Compliant Landlords in Saskatchewan: A Tenant Guide

Landlord Compliance & Penalties Saskatchewan 4 min read · published March 09, 2026 Flag of Saskatchewan

If you're a tenant in Saskatchewan facing problems such as ignored repairs, health hazards, or illegal rent increases, it's essential to know how to report a non-compliant landlord. Saskatchewanians have specific rights and procedures under provincial law to address these issues. This guide demystifies the reporting process and ensures you feel empowered to protect your rental rights in Saskatchewan.

In Saskatchewan, you file with the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) to seek a legally binding resolution. Start by gathering copies of your leases, notices, repairs requests, photos, and a written timeline of events before you file.

When Is Your Landlord Non-Compliant?

Landlords in Saskatchewan must follow the rules set out in the The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006[1]. A landlord is considered non-compliant if they:

  • Fail to complete necessary repairs or address health and safety issues
  • Do not return rental deposits as required by law
  • Attempt to evict a tenant without proper notice or legal reason
  • Harass or intimidate tenants
  • Increase rent improperly
Take detailed notes on every incident, including dates and who you spoke to. Keep copies of all correspondence and photos; these will be your evidence in any hearing.

If you are not sure whether your landlord’s actions break the law, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan for an overview of your provincial rights.

Steps to Address Landlord Non-Compliance

Before making a formal report, try to resolve the issue directly. Here’s what you should do:

  • Document the issue. Keep photos, letters, and notes.
  • Send a written request to your landlord (email or letter) listing the problem and asking for action by a reasonable deadline.
  • Keep records of all communications and the landlord’s response (or lack thereof).
Keep a detailed timeline and copies of all communications; request written confirmations of any agreed actions and set a clear deadline.
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If the landlord fails to act, you have the right to file a formal complaint with Saskatchewan's Residential Tenancies Office.

How to File an Official Complaint in Saskatchewan

The Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) is the official body for handling tenant–landlord disputes in Saskatchewan. Tenants can file for an order requiring a landlord to comply with the law.

The ORT's orders are enforceable in Saskatchewan courts, and non-compliance can lead to penalties or additional remedies. When submitting, include your written requests, evidence, and any prior communications.

Key Official Forms for Tenants

  • Application for an Office of Residential Tenancies Hearing (PDF)
    Use this form when your landlord has not resolved an issue (e.g., repairs, deposit disputes, improper notices). File with supporting documents, including your written requests and evidence.
Double-check that you attach all supporting documents to the application, including your written requests and evidence. Keep a copy of the completed form for your records, and note deadlines mentioned in the filing guidance.

Practical Example: If your heat is not working in winter and repeated written requests go unanswered, complete the Application for a Hearing and submit to the ORT to seek an order compelling repairs.

How to Submit Your Complaint

  • Download and complete the application form from the official Saskatchewan government forms portal.
  • Submit by mail, fax, in person, or (for some cases) by email to the ORT. Check details and current process on the ORT website.
  • Pay the application fee (fee waivers may be available if you qualify for financial hardship).
If you feel overwhelmed, contact a tenant advocate or legal clinic early in the process to review your documents and explain next steps. They can help you prepare for the hearing and avoid missing key deadlines.

What Can Happen After Filing?

The Office of Residential Tenancies may:

  • Order the landlord to repair, refund, or follow the law
  • Impose penalties or award compensation to you
  • Facilitate mediation to resolve the dispute

All decisions are enforceable in Saskatchewan courts.

Your Rights and Responsibilities

While you have the right to report your landlord, you must also meet your responsibilities as a tenant. Failing to pay rent or follow lease rules may impact the tribunal's decision. For detailed information about your obligations, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

If your concern involves dangerous or unsanitary living conditions, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for more on your rights and steps to take.

  • While you have the right to report your landlord, you must also meet your responsibilities as a tenant. Failing to pay rent or follow lease rules may impact the tribunal's decision. For detailed information about your obligations, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
  • If your concern involves dangerous or unsanitary living conditions, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for more on your rights and steps to take.

Other Supportive Steps

Some tenants may find solutions through mediation or by discussing the issue with a tenant advocate group before formalizing a dispute. Doing this can save time and help preserve a good landlord-tenant relationship.

For additional rental homes and housing solutions, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings and access helpful tools for Canadian renters.

  1. Government of Saskatchewan. The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.
  2. Office of Residential Tenancies — How to Make an Application.
  3. Saskatchewan Government — Forms for Applicants.

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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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