Renters moving into a new place in Saskatchewan who rely on service animals need to know their rights and how to request accommodations. This guide explains what tenants should expect during move-in, how to make a written accommodation request, what documentation a landlord can reasonably ask for, and what to do if a request is refused. It covers practical steps, timelines, and where to get help from the Office of Residential Tenancies and human rights bodies. Clear examples and simple action steps will help tenants protect their health and housing while respecting property rules. Language is plain and aimed at tenants, not legal professionals, so you can follow the process with confidence.
What the law says in Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan protects people with disabilities under provincial human rights law and tenancy rules that require landlords to consider reasonable accommodation requests for service animals. The Office of Residential Tenancies handles many tenancy disputes and provides guidance for renters and landlords[1]. The relevant provincial law is the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, which sets out rights and obligations for both parties[2]. For plain-language summaries of tenant rights in this province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.
Requesting a service animal when moving in
When you are moving into a new rental home, approach the accommodation request clearly and in writing. Make your request before or at move-in to avoid misunderstandings. Be factual, polite, and concise in explaining the accommodation you need and why it is necessary for your disability-related needs.
- Submit a written request to the landlord describing the service animal and the accommodation you need.
- Provide supporting documentation if the landlord asks for it, such as a brief letter from a health professional or a statement describing the assistance provided.
- Offer reasonable information about how you will care for the animal and prevent damage, including vaccination and waste plans.
- Give the landlord a reasonable time to respond; suggest a timeframe such as 7–14 days for an initial reply.
Documentation, privacy and what landlords can ask
Landlords may ask for enough information to understand the accommodation request, but they cannot require detailed medical records or ask for the full diagnosis. Focus on sharing information that explains the functional need for the service animal. If privacy is a concern, you can state that the information is health-related and provide a brief professional note instead of full files.
If your request is refused or ignored
If a landlord refuses or does not respond, follow these practical steps. Keep clear records of every communication and attempt to resolve the matter informally before filing a formal application.
- Keep copies of all messages, emails, letters and any photos or notes that document conversations or dates.
- Contact the Office of Residential Tenancies for guidance on next steps and how to file an application if needed[1].
- If informal resolution fails, file the appropriate application with the Office of Residential Tenancies or a human rights complaint, using the official forms listed by the province[3].
- If the case proceeds to a hearing, bring all records and a clear timeline of events to support your claim.
Finding a suitable rental that accepts service animals
When searching for rentals, include service-animal considerations in your search and ask landlords early about accommodation policies. You can also use national listings to find pet-friendly or accessible units; for a map-based search of pet-friendly listings try Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca.
Before signing a lease, review move-in expectations and consider the initial inspection. For practical moving tips, see Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home.
FAQ
- Can a landlord refuse a service animal?
- Generally, no. Landlords must consider reasonable accommodation requests for service animals and cannot refuse solely because of a no-pets policy, unless accommodation would cause undue hardship.
- What documentation can a landlord ask for?
- A landlord may ask for information that explains the need for the service animal, such as a short letter from a health professional, but not detailed medical records.
- Where do I file a complaint if my rights are ignored?
- If informal attempts fail, file an application with the Office of Residential Tenancies or contact the provincial human rights commission for disability discrimination concerns.
How-To
- Prepare a short written accommodation request that states your need and the type of service animal.
- Attach concise supporting documentation from a health or social service professional if requested.
- Send the request by email and keep a copy; consider registered mail if you need formal proof of delivery.
- Keep all records and follow up in writing if you do not receive a timely response.
- If refused, file the appropriate application with the Office of Residential Tenancies or seek human rights advice.
Help and Support / Resources
- Office of Residential Tenancies - official tribunal and contacts
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)
- Forms and publications — Office of Residential Tenancies
