What counts as an emergency repair in Saskatchewan?

Repairs needed to fix dangerous, urgent hazards—like no heat in winter, burst pipes, or electrical outages—are considered emergencies under Saskatchewan law.

Can I withhold rent if repairs aren't done?

No, you must not withhold rent without an order from the Office of Residential Tenancies. Always follow the official complaint process.

Do I have to pay for all damages in my unit?

No. Tenants are only responsible for damage beyond normal wear and tear, or for anything caused by their actions or guests.

How quickly must my landlord make repairs?

Landlords must make emergency repairs as soon as possible. Routine repairs should be completed within a reasonable time frame.

Can my landlord enter my unit to do repairs?

Yes, with at least 24 hours’ written notice, except in emergencies where immediate entry may be necessary.

Saskatchewan Tenant Guide: Maintenance & Repairs Explained

Maintenance & Repairs Saskatchewan published July 01, 2025

If you’re renting in Saskatchewan, understanding your rights and responsibilities around maintenance and repairs can make a big difference in your rental experience. This tenant-focused guide explains what you and your landlord are each responsible for, how to request repairs, what to do if they’re delayed, and the steps to protect your home and your rights under Saskatchewan law.

Who Is Responsible for Maintenance and Repairs?

Under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1], landlords and tenants share certain duties when it comes to keeping the rental unit in safe, habitable condition. In general:

Landlords must keep the building and rental unit in a reasonable state of repair, suitable for occupation, and comply with health, safety, and housing standards.
Tenants must keep the unit reasonably clean and not cause damage beyond normal wear and tear.

For more details on landlord and tenant duties, check our Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained page.

How to Request a Repair: Step-by-Step

When something breaks or becomes unsafe, it’s important to address it quickly. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Create a written request. Describe the problem, what needs fixing, and the date you noticed the issue. Keep a copy for your records.
Step 2: Send your request to your landlord, property manager, or official contact listed in your lease. Email is usually best for having a timestamped record.
Step 3: Wait a reasonable period (usually a few days for routine repairs, or immediately for emergencies). For urgent health and safety risks (like no heat, major leaks, or electrical failures), landlords must act as soon as possible.
Step 4: If there’s no action, send a follow-up. Restate your request and note the earlier communication.
Step 5: If still unresolved, apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT). See the forms and process below.

For recurring problems like pest infestations or persistent leaks, you can learn more at Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

Emergency vs. Routine Repairs

Understanding the difference between routine and emergency repairs helps you take the right action:

Emergency Repairs: Problems that threaten your health or safety, such as a burst pipe, no heating in winter, or loss of electricity.
Routine Repairs: Maintenance or minor issues like a dripping tap, broken closet door, or worn window screens.

If you face an emergency and can’t reach your landlord, you may arrange repairs yourself and seek reimbursement, but keep all receipts and notify the landlord as soon as possible^[2].

Related Health and Safety Concerns

Maintenance issues can sometimes affect your health or safety. For guidance on dealing with hazards like mould, failing smoke detectors, or unsafe conditions, visit Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Official Forms and the Complaint Process

If your landlord does not address your repair request, you can file an official application with the ORT:

Form Name: Application for Remedy
When to Use: When you want the ORT to order your landlord to complete repairs, compensate you for losses, or allow you to complete urgent work and seek repayment.
How to Use: Complete the Application for Remedy form, attach supporting documentation (like repair requests, photos, receipts), and submit to the Office of Residential Tenancies. You may need to pay a fee.^[3]
Tip: Always detail dates, communications, and evidence for your case.

Recordkeeping and Inspections

Documenting issues, keeping photos, and noting the timeline of repair requests is important if disputes arise. When you move in or out, conduct a detailed inspection. Learn more in our Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

What If the Issue Is Not Resolved?

After applying to the ORT, a hearing may be scheduled. The tribunal may order the landlord to complete repairs, reduce your rent, or let you do the repairs and deduct the cost from the rent—if proper steps are followed. To learn more about tenant rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

If you’re seeking a change in your housing situation, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as an emergency repair in Saskatchewan?
Repairs needed to fix dangerous, urgent hazards—like no heat in winter, burst pipes, or electrical outages—are considered emergencies under Saskatchewan law.
Can I withhold rent if repairs aren't done?
No, you must not withhold rent without an order from the ORT. Instead, follow the official complaint process to address repair issues.
Do I have to pay for all damages in my unit?
No. Tenants are only responsible for damage beyond normal wear and tear, or for anything caused by their actions or guests.
How quickly must my landlord make repairs?
Landlords must make emergency repairs as soon as possible. For routine repairs, they should be done within a reasonable time.
Can my landlord enter my unit to do repairs?
Yes, with at least 24 hours’ written notice, except in emergencies where immediate entry may be necessary.

How To: Getting Maintenance Issues Resolved

How can I request a repair from my landlord?
Put your repair request in writing, include the nature of the issue, and send it to your landlord or property manager.
What should I do if my landlord ignores my request?
Send a follow-up written reminder. If there’s still no action, file an Application for Remedy with the Office of Residential Tenancies.
How do I apply to the ORT for repair orders?
Fill out the Application for Remedy form from the ORT website, include evidence (photos, communications), and submit it along with any required fee.
What evidence should I include with my application?
Keep copies of all requests, responses, dated notes, and photos of the issue to strengthen your case.

Key Takeaways

Landlords are responsible for major repairs and health or safety issues; tenants keep their unit clean and report problems promptly.
Always put repair requests in writing—document everything.
If repairs aren’t addressed, apply to the ORT using the official Application for Remedy form.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Government of Saskatchewan Rental Rights
Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) — complaint forms, tenant info, and dispute resolution
For local support, consult Saskatchewan renters’ advocacy services or legal clinics
Explore Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan for more provincial details

Residential Tenancies Act, 2006: Saskatchewan Acts and Regulations
Guidance on Tenant and Landlord Repair Responsibilities: Government of Saskatchewan Housing Rights
Application for Remedy Form: ORT Official Forms