Saskatchewan Tenant Guide: Handling Rent & Deposit Issues

Dealing with rent and deposit matters can be stressful for tenants in Saskatchewan—whether you’re signing a lease, moving out, or managing rent increases. This plain-language guide walks you through your rent and deposit rights, key responsibilities, and how to navigate common problems under provincial rules.

Understanding Rent Payment Rules in Saskatchewan

As a tenant, paying rent on time is one of your main responsibilities. Here’s what to remember:

• Rent is usually due on the date in your lease (most often the first of the month).
• Landlords must give written notice of any change in where or how you pay rent.
• If you pay late, your landlord may issue a warning or begin eviction proceedings—but they must follow the law.

For more on your rent duties and protecting yourself, read the Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

What If You Can't Pay Your Rent?

If you're having trouble, communicate with your landlord as soon as possible. Explain your situation and ask about payment arrangements. If this fails, your landlord may apply for an eviction order, but you are entitled to proper notice and a hearing before any action is taken.

Your Rights with Deposits in Saskatchewan

A security deposit (sometimes called a damage deposit) is money you pay to your landlord as financial protection in case of unpaid rent or property damage. In Saskatchewan, specific laws protect your deposit:

• A security deposit cannot be more than one month’s rent.
• It must be placed in a trust account by the landlord.
• After moving out, your landlord must return your deposit with interest—unless there’s damage beyond normal wear and tear or unpaid rent.

Be sure to keep all receipts and records of your payments. For a detailed explanation, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

How Are Deposits Returned?

Your landlord must return your deposit (plus interest) within seven business days of your lease ending, unless you both agree in writing to extend the time. If there are deductions, your landlord must provide a written itemized statement. If you disagree, you can file an application with the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT).

Rent Increases: What’s Allowed in Saskatchewan?

Rent can be increased, but only with proper notice:

• Landlords must give at least two months’ written notice before increasing rent for existing tenants on a month-to-month or fixed-term lease.
• There is no provincial cap on how much rent can increase, but the landlord cannot raise it more often than once per year.
• The rules are set out in the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)^[1].

Disputing a Rent Increase

If you believe your rent increase was not properly served or is in violation of your lease, you may apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies.

Common Rent & Deposit Issues for Tenants

Some of the most frequent problems faced by Saskatchewan tenants include:

• Late or missing security deposit returns
• Rent increases without proper notice
• Unjustified deductions from your deposit
• Confusion about lease terms after moving in

For a broader look at these and how to resolve them, read Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Key Forms for Tenants in Saskatchewan

• Form: Application for Return of Security Deposit – Use if your landlord fails to return your deposit within seven business days after you move out.
  Find the form and instructions at the Office of Residential Tenancies Forms Page. To use it: Complete the form, describe the problem, and submit by mail, email, or in person to the ORT, including supporting documents such as your lease and proof of payment.
• Form: Application for Order of Possession (Eviction) – If you’re facing eviction for rent nonpayment and believe it’s unfair, you can respond using the procedure outlined with this form. The landlord must also use this form to apply for eviction.
  Find details at: Official Saskatchewan Tenancy Forms.
• Form: Notice of Rent Increase – Landlords must use this form to provide written notice of a rent increase.
  Learn more and download templates at the ORT’s website.

Always read the instructions on each form and include as much detail as possible.

About the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT)

The ORT is the official tribunal for landlord-tenant disputes in Saskatchewan. They handle applications on issues like rent, deposits, evictions, and more. For rules, applications, and guides, visit the Office of Residential Tenancies.

For more details on tenant rights and general rental law in your province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

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Frequently Asked Questions for Saskatchewan Tenants

1. How much can my landlord ask for as a security deposit?
   By law, landlords in Saskatchewan can request a maximum of one month’s rent as a security deposit.
2. How long does my landlord have to return my deposit?
   Your security deposit must be returned within seven business days of your lease’s end, plus interest, unless there’s a dispute.
3. Can my rent be increased more than once a year?
   No, rent can only be increased once every 12 months, and you must receive at least two months’ written notice first.
4. What do I do if my landlord withholds my deposit without a valid reason?
   You can submit an Application for Return of Security Deposit to the ORT, providing evidence of your claim and supporting documents.
5. Is there a rent cap or limit on how much rent can go up?
   There is currently no provincial rent cap, but landlords must provide legal notice and can only raise rent once per year.

How To: File for Return of Security Deposit in Saskatchewan

1. Gather documentation
   Collect your tenancy agreement, move-out inspection report, and any correspondence about your deposit.
2. Download the correct form
   Get the "Application for Return of Security Deposit" from the ORT’s official forms page.
3. Fill out the form in detail
   Include your details, landlord’s info, and description of the issue. Attach copies of receipts or evidence.
4. Submit the application
   Send the completed form to the ORT by mail, in person, or by email, as specified on the form.
5. Prepare for a hearing
   If your case goes to a hearing, bring all your evidence and be ready to explain your side.

Following each step increases your chances of getting your deposit back quickly.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Rent and deposit rules in Saskatchewan offer protections—know your rights around payments, deposits, and rent increases.
• Always ask for written notice and save receipts for payments or correspondence.
• If you experience an issue, use the correct ORT form and act promptly.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): Official information, forms, and dispute resolution
• Saskatchewan Legal Aid: Legal Aid Saskatchewan (free/low-cost legal help for low-income tenants)
• Public Legal Education Association of Saskatchewan (PLEA): Tenant rights guides and explanations

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan) – Legislation text
2. Office of Residential Tenancies – Official tribunal and information
3. Saskatchewan Tenancy Forms (Official)

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