Sealing Eviction Records in Saskatchewan: Tenant Guide

Dealing with an eviction can be stressful for tenants, and concerns about the long-term impact of an eviction record are common—especially in Saskatchewan. Understanding whether your eviction record can be sealed, what this means for your future rental opportunities, and how to protect your rights is crucial. This guide simplifies the rules, explains key terms, and shows what actions you can take as a tenant in Saskatchewan.

Understanding Eviction Records in Saskatchewan

In Saskatchewan, eviction records typically refer to decisions made by the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT), the tribunal responsible for handling disputes between landlords and tenants. When a landlord files an application to evict a tenant and a hearing is held, the outcome is generally a matter of public record posted on the ORT's official website or made available on request.^[1]

Are Eviction Records Public?

Yes. Decisions and orders from the ORT are considered public documents, in line with the principles of open justice. Information such as names, addresses, and reasoning for eviction may be accessible to the public and, in some cases, tenants screening companies or future landlords.

Can You Seal or Remove an Eviction Record?

Saskatchewan does not currently offer a formal process to seal or expunge an eviction record through the ORT or another government body. This means that, once a decision is published, it typically remains in the public domain except in rare, exceptional circumstances (like publication bans in sensitive cases).

• There is no standard form or application to request a record be sealed.
• In rare cases, you may apply for limited publication bans (such as for personal safety) directly to the Office of Residential Tenancies.
• A successful appeal may overturn a previous eviction decision, but past records generally remain visible.

For full information about the provincial tenancy board, visit the Office of Residential Tenancies.

Your Rights and Next Steps After an Eviction

If you have been evicted, you may be wondering what you can do to protect your renting opportunities:

• Prepare for future rental applications by collecting positive references or proof of responsible tenancies since the eviction.
• Understand your rights and responsibilities as a tenant to avoid similar issues in the future. If you’re unsure, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan for a clear overview.
• Keep copies of all paperwork, including the final decision from the ORT. If you feel the process was unfair, you may appeal within the set deadlines—see the ORT’s guidance on appeals and reviews.

Maintaining good communication with new landlords and being honest about your rental history can help. Saskatchewan law does not prohibit landlords from accessing this information, but focusing on your most recent positive references can make a difference.

Forms and Processes: What if I Dispute My Eviction?

• Request for Review – If you believe there was a mistake in your eviction hearing, you can submit a Request for Review to the ORT. All details and the form are on the official appeal page.
  Example: A tenant believes new evidence could change the outcome of their eviction; they fill out and submit this form within 15 days of the decision.

Dealing with the Impact of an Eviction Record

While you cannot remove a public eviction record in Saskatchewan, you may be able to reduce its impact by:

• Building a strong rental history after the eviction
• Offering to explain your circumstances calmly and honestly to future landlords
• Securing a cosigner or paying a larger deposit, where possible (provided it’s within provincial landlord-tenant rules)

How Does an Eviction Affect Other Rights?

Aside from your tenancy record, eviction may impact your ability to claim your security deposit, reapply for future rentals, or maintain positive rental references. To help with a smooth transition, see Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can a landlord see my eviction record in Saskatchewan?
   Yes. Most ORT decisions are publicly accessible, and landlords or agencies can view them as part of tenant screening.
2. Is there a way to seal or hide an eviction in Saskatchewan?
   No. There is currently no formal process to seal or remove an eviction record except in extremely rare circumstances involving publication bans.
3. How long does an eviction record stay public in Saskatchewan?
   Indefinitely, unless a specific reason for removal or restriction is approved by the tribunal (rare for ordinary cases).
4. What should I do if my eviction was unfair?
   Apply for a review with the ORT as soon as possible. Use their official ‘Request for Review’ process and meet the deadlines stated in your decision letter.
5. Where can I find trusted information about my rights as a tenant?
   See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan for reliable and updated advice.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• There is no process to seal eviction records in Saskatchewan. They remain public except in rare cases.
• Act quickly if your eviction decision was unfair, using the official Request for Review process.
• Focus on building a strong rental history and accessing tenant resources to improve your chances for future rentals.

For more information about maintaining positive tenancies, see Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) – Main tribunal for Saskatchewan tenants and landlords, with forms, guides, and contact info for appeals and reviews.
• Official tenant information from the Province of Saskatchewan
• Saskatchewan Landlord and Tenant Support Centre: Tenant consultation and advocacy services (resource page).
• For your rights and obligations, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

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1. [1] Office of Residential Tenancies, Saskatchewan: Access to Tribunal Decisions and Forms
2. Legislation: The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)

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