If you are a renter in Saskatchewan who believes you faced discrimination when applying for, living in, or seeking repairs for a rental home, this page explains practical steps to file a housing discrimination claim and other tenancy options. It uses plain language so tenants and renters can understand when to use the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission process versus residential tenancy routes, what evidence to gather, and which official forms to submit. You will also find tips on preserving records, what to expect during review, and where to get help locally in Saskatchewan so you can move forward with confidence and protect your housing rights.
Steps to file a housing discrimination claim in Saskatchewan
Start by deciding whether the problem is discrimination under the Saskatchewan Human Rights Code or a tenancy matter for the Office of Residential Tenancies. If the issue involves a protected ground such as disability, family status, or race, the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission is the right place to file a complaint.[1]
- Gather evidence: take dated photos, save text messages and emails, and keep a detailed timeline of incidents and communications.
- Complete the Human Rights Complaint Form to describe the discrimination and state the protected ground; include examples and witness names if available.
- Keep copies of lease clauses, rent receipts, and repair requests to show whether housing rules were applied differently to you.
When to consider the Office of Residential Tenancies
If your problem is strictly about eviction notice, unpaid rent, or repairs and habitability (for example, heating or plumbing problems), you may file an application with the Office of Residential Tenancies instead of, or in addition to, a human rights complaint.[3]
- For repair and habitability issues, document dates you reported problems and the landlord response; this supports ORT applications.
- If both discrimination and tenancy issues apply, you can file a human rights complaint and still use ORT for remedy related to the lease.
Filing the complaint and what happens next
Complete the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission complaint form online or by mail, following instructions for evidence and signatures.[2] After filing, the Commission reviews the complaint, may attempt early resolution or mediation, and decides whether to investigate or dismiss the claim. If the Commission accepts the complaint, it may lead to a mediated settlement or a formal hearing.
FAQ
- How long do I have to file a human rights complaint in Saskatchewan?
- Generally, file as soon as possible; specific time limits depend on the nature of the discrimination, so contact the Commission quickly to confirm deadlines.
- Can I file a complaint if I already went to the Office of Residential Tenancies?
- Yes. You can pursue a human rights complaint for discrimination even if you used ORT for tenancy remedies; both processes may run separately.
- Will I need a lawyer to file a claim?
- No. You can file on your own and the Commission provides process guidance, though you may choose legal advice for complex cases.
How-To
- Prepare a concise timeline and gather supporting documents such as photos, messages, lease pages, and receipts.
- Complete the Saskatchewan Human Rights Complaint Form with clear examples of discriminatory acts and the protected ground.
- Submit the form online or send by mail following the Commissions filing instructions, and keep copies for your records.
- Respond to Commission requests for information or attend mediation if offered to try to resolve the issue early.
- If the complaint proceeds, prepare for a possible formal hearing by organizing witnesses and documents in chronological order.
Key Takeaways
- Discrimination claims go to the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission while tenancy issues may go to the Office of Residential Tenancies.
- Collect clear, dated evidence and keep copies of all communications and forms.
- Seek free Commission guidance early and consider legal advice for complex cases.
Help and Support / Resources
- Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission - official site
- Human Rights Complaint Form and filing instructions
- Office of Residential Tenancies - applications and forms
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