Sexual Harassment by Landlords in Saskatchewan

Sexual harassment by a landlord can leave tenants feeling unsafe and uncertain about their rights. If you rent in Saskatchewan, it helps to know what behaviour counts as harassment, how to document incidents, and where to get help. This guide explains your rights as a renter, practical steps to protect yourself, and how to report misconduct to the correct provincial authorities. It also covers immediate safety measures, collecting evidence, and using formal complaints or tribunal processes if needed. The information focuses on clear, tenant-focused actions and resources so you can make informed choices about safety, repairs to your unit, and preserving your legal options.

What counts as sexual harassment in rental housing

Sexual harassment in a rental relationship can include unwanted sexual comments, requests for sexual favours, sexual touching, stalking, exposing yourself, or any conduct that creates a hostile or intimidating living environment. In Saskatchewan these issues may intersect with protections under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1] and other criminal or human rights laws, depending on the behaviour and circumstances.

Immediate steps for safety and evidence

• Keep a dated log of each incident with times, locations, what was said or done, and any witnesses.
• Save texts, emails, voicemails, photos, or recordings that show the behaviour.
• Call 911 or local police if you are in immediate danger; ask for a police report to document the event.
• Tell the landlord in writing to stop the behaviour and keep a copy of that message as formal evidence.

Reporting, formal complaints and key forms

If the behaviour continues or is serious, you can raise the matter with the Office of Residential Tenancies in Saskatchewan^[2] or pursue criminal or human-rights options. The Office handles disputes and orders related to rental agreements; you may need to file specific forms or an application to request a decision.^[3]

• Notice to End Tenancy (Landlord or Tenant) — used when safety concerns justify ending the tenancy. Example: a tenant who receives repeated sexual threats may use a safety notice and follow with an application to end the lease.
• Application to the Director / Tenancy Dispute Form — used to ask the Office for orders (for example, an order to stop harassment or to seek compensation for distress); a tenant would file this when informal requests do not stop the conduct.
• Guides and supporting documents — templates and instructions that explain how to prepare evidence, submit an application, and what to expect at a hearing.

For practical help with preparing complaints and communicating with a landlord, see How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant's Guide. To review what landlords must and must not do, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained. For housing search support while you consider next steps, you can Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings to look for alternative units.

FAQ

Can a landlord evict me for reporting sexual harassment?

No. Retaliatory eviction for reporting harassment is generally prohibited; if you face eviction after reporting, document timelines and seek help from the Office of Residential Tenancies or legal advice.

Should I call the police or the tenancy office first?

If you are in immediate danger call 911. For breaches of the tenancy agreement or to seek orders, contact the Office of Residential Tenancies.

What counts as strong evidence?

Dates, times, photos or screenshots, written messages, witness names, and official reports (police or medical) are all helpful when making a formal complaint.

How-To

1. Ensure immediate safety and call emergency services if you are in danger.
2. Document the incident with dates, times, descriptions, and save any messages or photos.
3. Send a brief written request to the landlord to stop the behaviour and keep a copy for your records.
4. File an application with the Office of Residential Tenancies or seek police reports if conduct is criminal.
5. Contact local tenant advice services or legal aid for help preparing a hearing or understanding remedies.

Key Takeaways

• Document every incident and preserve messages as evidence.
• Call police for immediate danger and report to the tenancy office for civil remedies.
• Use official forms and follow tribunal steps to protect your rights and safety.

Help and Support / Resources

• Office of Residential Tenancies, Government of Saskatchewan
• Tenancy rights and responsibilities — Government of Saskatchewan
• Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 — Official PDF

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1. [1] Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 — Government of Saskatchewan
2. [2] Office of Residential Tenancies — Government of Saskatchewan
3. [3] Forms and publications — Office of Residential Tenancies