Saskatchewan Tenant Dispute FAQs: Navigating the LTB Process

If you're a tenant in Saskatchewan facing issues like rent increases, eviction, maintenance disputes, or disagreements with your landlord, it's important to understand your rights and the dispute resolution process. This guide offers answers to the most frequently asked questions about dispute resolution and the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT)—Saskatchewan's residential tenancy tribunal.

Dispute Resolution in Saskatchewan: What Tenants Should Know

Disputes between tenants and landlords can happen for many reasons. Common reasons include unpaid rent, disagreements about repairs, deposit returns, or notice to end a tenancy. In Saskatchewan, the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) manages these matters fairly and efficiently.

What Is the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT)?

The ORT is the official body in Saskatchewan that hears and decides on residential tenancy disputes. Both tenants and landlords can apply for an ORT hearing.

All tenancy matters in Saskatchewan are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1]. This law outlines your rights and responsibilities as a tenant or landlord.

Common Disputes the ORT Handles

• Evictions and ending tenancy
• Rent increases and unpaid rent
• Return of security deposits (damage deposits)
• Repairs and maintenance issues
• Right of entry disputes

If you want to know more about your rights and obligations after signing a rental contract, visit What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Filing a Dispute With the ORT

If you and your landlord can't resolve a problem directly, you can file an application with the ORT. Here is how the process works:

• Review your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.
• Attempt mediation or communication directly, if possible.
• If unresolved, fill out the correct application form for your dispute type and submit it to the ORT with the required fee.
• Attend the hearing (in person or virtually). Both you and your landlord can present evidence. The ORT will issue a binding decision.

Important Dispute Forms for Tenants

• Application for an Order of Possession or Eviction (Form 6): Used if a tenant receives an eviction notice they wish to dispute. Complete this form to request a hearing to challenge the eviction.
  Official info and form: Residential Tenancies Forms
• Application for Return of Security Deposit (Form 9): If your landlord has not returned your damage deposit within seven business days of moving out, use this form to request a hearing.
  Official info and form: Residential Tenancies Forms
• Application for Repairs (Form 5): If essential repairs are being ignored by your landlord, fill out this form to have the ORT order repairs.
  Official info and form: Residential Tenancies Forms

Tips for Tenants When Facing a Dispute

• Try to solve the issue by talking with your landlord first.
• Read your lease agreement thoroughly.
• Document all interactions and keep receipts.
• If your deposit is at issue, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
• Meet all deadlines for submitting applications to the ORT.

Saskatchewan Tenant Rights and Responsibilities

Both landlords and tenants have important rights and responsibilities under the law. For example, tenants must pay rent on time, keep the property reasonably clean, and repair any damage they cause. Landlords must provide a safe home and maintain important services like heat, water, and electricity.
For a detailed summary, read Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

For a broader overview, check out the full Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Tenant Disputes in Saskatchewan

1. What issues can I bring to the ORT as a tenant?
   Tenants can bring disputes about rent increases, unpaid rent, evictions, unreturned deposits, repairs, and more. The ORT hears most disagreements between landlords and tenants.
2. How do I apply for a hearing with the ORT?
   Fill out the appropriate application form (based on your dispute) and submit it with any evidence to the ORT. Details and forms are on the official ORT website. You must pay a filing fee unless you qualify for a waiver.
3. How long does it take to resolve a dispute?
   Most hearings happen within a few weeks of the application. Decisions are usually provided in writing shortly after the hearing.
4. What should I do if my landlord doesn't follow the ORT decision?
   If a landlord doesn't comply, you may be able to enforce the decision through the Court of King’s Bench. The ORT will provide information on enforcement when you receive your order.
5. Can I have someone help represent me at the hearing?
   Yes, tenants may have a friend, family member, or legal representative assist them at the hearing. Make arrangements in advance and notify the ORT if needed.

How to File a Dispute With the Saskatchewan ORT

1. How do I apply for the return of my deposit?
   Complete the "Application for Return of Security Deposit (Form 9)" and submit it to the ORT with evidence of your tenancy and deposit payment.
2. How do I dispute an eviction notice?
   Quickly file an "Application for an Order of Possession or Eviction (Form 6)" before the listed move-out date. Prepare your reasons and any supporting evidence.
3. How do I request urgent repairs?
   If safety or essential services are affected, file "Application for Repairs (Form 5)." Document the problem and attempts to contact your landlord.
4. What happens at an ORT hearing?
   The ORT will schedule a hearing (in person, by phone, or videoconference). Both sides present evidence, answer questions, and receive a written decision from the hearing officer.

Key Takeaways for Saskatchewan Tenants

• The Office of Residential Tenancies is the main body for resolving rental disputes in Saskatchewan.
• File the correct form with evidence to resolve issues like eviction, repairs, or deposit returns.
• Keep communication civil, records organized, and respond quickly to any notices received.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): Information, forms, and dispute resolution (Province-wide)
• Government of Saskatchewan: Renting and Leasing: Guidance for tenants on rights, forms, and assistance
• Public Legal Education Association of Saskatchewan (PLEA): Legal info and referrals
• Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)

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