Saskatchewan Tenant FAQs: Moving In and Moving Out

For tenants in Saskatchewan, moving into or out of a rental property involves certain rights, responsibilities, and practical steps under the province’s residential tenancy laws. Whether you are making your new place a home or preparing to leave, it helps to know the rules that protect you and what actions you should take for a smooth experience.

Moving In: What Should Tenants Know?

Before moving in, tenants should understand their lease agreement, security deposit requirements, and the basics of what to check in their rental unit. Saskatchewan’s Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) oversees rental disputes and enforces rights for tenants and landlords in the province.^[1]

Lease Agreements and Moving-In Inspection

Once your rental application is accepted and you have signed a tenancy agreement, it’s important to get everything in writing. The landlord and tenant should conduct a move-in inspection together, documenting the condition of the unit. This step protects both parties when you eventually move out.

• Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants provides details about checklists and what to look for.
• Always date and sign the inspection report, and request a copy for your records.

Security Deposit Requirements

In Saskatchewan, landlords can ask for a security deposit of up to one month’s rent. This must be deposited within two business days in a trust account. Tenants have the right to a receipt and a full explanation of the rules regarding their deposit. For more information, visit the Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know page.

Essential Tips for a Smooth Move-In

• Get all agreements in writing and read your lease carefully.
• Review the provided rental unit condition report and take your own photos.
• Know where to find official tenant resources, such as the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan fact page.

Moving Out: Steps and Legal Requirements

When it is time to leave, there are a few steps to follow to ensure you get your deposit back and avoid any legal trouble.

Notice to End Tenancy

• Tenants on a month-to-month lease must give at least one full rental month’s written notice before moving out. Fixed-term tenancies usually require you to move at the end of the agreed period unless both parties agree otherwise.
• Use Form 7: Notice to Terminate a Periodic Tenancy (Tenant to Landlord) (download from ORT) when you intend to end your periodic tenancy. Example: If your lease renews monthly, and you plan to move out at the end of June, submit this notice by May 31st.

Move-Out Inspection and Returning Keys

• Schedule a move-out inspection with your landlord. This inspection must occur on or near the day you move and helps determine if you will receive your security deposit back.
• Hand over all keys and fobs, ensure the rental is cleaned, and return the property to its original condition (excluding normal wear and tear). For next steps and practical guidance, visit Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

Getting Your Security Deposit Back

If there are no damages or unpaid rent, the landlord must return your deposit, plus interest, within seven business days of the lease ending. For more details on recovering your deposit and what deductions are allowed, read How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

Government Forms Tenants May Need

• Form 7: Notice to Terminate a Periodic Tenancy (Tenant to Landlord) – Used to give your landlord proper written notice before moving out. Download here.
• Security Deposit Claim Form – If you believe you are unfairly denied your deposit, you can file a claim with the Office of Residential Tenancies. Get the form.

What If There Are Disputes or Problems?

If you and your landlord disagree about damages, amounts owing, or process, you can file an application with the Office of Residential Tenancies. The ORT provides forms and guidance for tenants who need to resolve disputes about moving in, moving out, or money owed.

Official Saskatchewan Tenancy Legislation

All tenant and landlord relationships in Saskatchewan are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.^[2]

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions for Tenants in Saskatchewan

1. What is required for a legal move-out in Saskatchewan?
   Tenants must provide their landlord with written notice at least one rental month before moving out. The notice should be delivered using Form 7 or by written letter.
2. Is a move-in or move-out inspection mandatory?
   Saskatchewan law requires landlords to offer both move-in and move-out inspections, and tenants are encouraged to attend both. This helps protect your right to recover your security deposit.
3. How much can my landlord deduct from my security deposit when I move out?
   Landlords can only deduct costs for damages (beyond normal wear and tear), unpaid rent, or fees outlined in your agreement. An itemized list must be provided.
4. Where can I get help if my landlord refuses to return my deposit?
   You can file a security deposit claim with the Office of Residential Tenancies, which investigates and resolves these issues.
5. Where do I go for more info on tenant rights in Saskatchewan?
   Read the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan fact page for a detailed overview.

How To: Step-by-Step Guidance for Tenants

1. How to Do a Move-In Inspection in Saskatchewan
   
   • Arrange a date and time with your landlord to walk through the property together before moving in.
   • Use the inspection checklist provided or create your own. Examine each room, noting existing damage or cleaning issues.
   • Take dated photos or videos and have both parties sign off on the report.
2. How to Serve Notice When Moving Out
   
   • Download and fill out Form 7: Notice to Terminate a Periodic Tenancy (Tenant to Landlord) from the ORT website.
   • Deliver the notice to your landlord in person or by registered mail, ensuring you keep a copy and proof of delivery.
3. How to Claim Your Security Deposit
   
   • If your landlord fails to return your deposit within seven business days, fill out the Security Deposit Claim Form from the ORT website.
   • Submit it along with supporting evidence (photos, inspection report, correspondence) to the ORT for review.

Key Takeaways for Tenants Moving In or Out

• Be familiar with rental laws and your rights in Saskatchewan under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.
• Always document the unit’s condition at move-in and move-out, and use official forms to serve notice or make claims.
• For faster rental searches, browse apartments for rent in Canada using reliable online tools.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Saskatchewan Renting and Letting: Government Portal
• Office of Residential Tenancies (Disputes, applications, forms)
• Read more in our Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan summary

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1. Office of Residential Tenancies (Saskatchewan): official tribunal for rental disputes
2. Legislation: Residential Tenancies Act, 2006

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