Settling Disputes at LTB Case Conferences in Saskatchewan

If you're a tenant in Saskatchewan facing issues like rent increases, repairs, or disputes with your landlord, understanding how settlements can be reached at case conferences is crucial. The Saskatchewan Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) offers tenants and landlords an opportunity to resolve disputes early—often before a formal hearing. This guide explains the settlement process, what to expect, and how to protect your rights as a tenant during these important meetings.

What Is a Case Conference in Saskatchewan?

The Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) handles rental disputes in Saskatchewan under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006¹. A case conference is an informal meeting with a dispute resolution officer. It's your opportunity to discuss issues and work toward an agreement (settlement), such as payment plans, repair timelines, or ending a tenancy on agreed terms.

Purpose of Settlements at Case Conferences

Settlements help both tenants and landlords avoid lengthy, formal hearings. Common outcomes include:

• A landlord agreeing to complete repairs by a set date
• A tenant agreeing on a payment schedule for overdue rent
• Both parties agreeing to end the tenancy mutually

This approach can save time and stress for everyone involved. If no settlement is reached, the case moves to a formal hearing.

The Settlement Process: What to Expect

When an application is filed (e.g., dispute over repairs, rent, or eviction), the ORT may schedule a case conference before a hearing. Both parties are invited to participate. Here’s how it usually unfolds:

• A dispute resolution officer explains the process and clarifies the issues
• You and your landlord can share your perspectives and proposed solutions
• The officer may suggest ways to resolve the dispute
• If an agreement is reached, it can be put into writing and made enforceable

If communication is challenging, you can often bring someone to support you, such as a family member or tenant advocate.

Relevant Official Forms for Settlement Agreements

• Notice of Application (Form A): Initiates the dispute process. Tenants use this form to apply to the ORT for issues like repairs, deposit returns, or disagreements with landlords. Download from the Saskatchewan government. For example, if your landlord hasn’t returned your security deposit or addressed urgent repairs, you’d start by submitting this form.
• Settlement Agreement/Consent Order: If you and your landlord agree to settle at the case conference, the officer can prepare a written agreement. This agreement is then approved and becomes enforceable. (There is no standard downloadable form, as the officer prepares this after the meeting.)

Protecting Your Tenant Rights When Settling

It's important to fully understand any proposed settlement before agreeing. Don’t feel pressured to accept a deal that isn’t fair or practical. You have the right to:

• Ask for time to consider the agreement
• Request that terms be put in writing
• Get help from a tenant advocate or legal aid clinic if you are unsure

Before accepting a settlement, consider how it might affect your tenancy, your obligations, and your Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan. Agreements made at case conferences carry the same legal weight as a tribunal order.

Troubles Commonly Settled at ORT Case Conferences

• Disagreements over rent increases or payment plans
• Requests for urgent or routine repairs (Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities)
• Security deposit return issues
• Early lease termination arrangements
• Mutual agreements to vacate a rental unit

The informal, solution-focused nature of the case conference often benefits tenants facing these types of problems.

Next Steps: How to Prepare for Your Conference

Arrive prepared by bringing:

• Your application and any Response forms (if applicable)
• Relevant correspondence or repair requests
• Photos, receipts, or written agreements
• Questions or outcomes you wish to achieve

Reviewing the specific rights and obligations of both parties can clarify your position. Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained provides a useful starting point.

After the Settlement: What Happens Next?

Once you finalize a settlement, you’ll receive a written decision or order. Ensure you understand your next steps—whether it’s paying rent, moving out by a certain date, or waiting for repairs. If an agreement is broken, you can apply to have it enforced through the ORT.

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1. Do I have to agree to a settlement at a Saskatchewan case conference?
   No, you are never required to settle. If you can’t agree, your case will proceed to a formal hearing with the Office of Residential Tenancies.
2. Are settlements legally binding?
   Yes. Once both parties agree and sign, settlements are enforceable just like tribunal decisions.
3. Can I get help during the case conference?
   Yes. You can have someone support you, such as a family member or a tenant advocate. Legal advice is also available from community resources.
4. What if the landlord breaks the settlement?
   You can apply to the ORT for enforcement of the agreement. The ORT may issue orders to ensure compliance.
5. Is there a fee to attend a case conference?
   No. The only fees are for filing initial applications, such as Form A. Participation in the conference is included in this process.

Key Takeaways:

• Case conferences promote quick, practical resolutions for common tenant issues.
• Any agreements made are legally binding and enforceable.
• Always review your rights and prepare before attending a conference.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Saskatchewan Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): Access forms, guides, and contact details
• Saskatchewan Government: Renting and Leasing – Rights & Responsibilities
• Local tenant advocacy groups or Saskatchewan legal aid services
• Review detailed rights on Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)
2. Office of Residential Tenancies Official Site

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