Renting in Saskatchewan means both landlords and tenants must manage winter hazards like snow and ice. As a tenant, you should know who clears sidewalks, stairs and shared entryways, when to report dangerous conditions, and how to document requests for repairs. This guide explains common responsibilities, safety tips, how to ask your landlord to act, and the official forms and dispute process if snow and ice arent cleared. It uses plain language for tenants and renters and points to Saskatchewan government services and the Office of Residential Tenancies so you can find forms and timelines quickly. Keep records of notices, photos and follow deadlines to protect your rights and safety during winter months.
Who is responsible for snow and ice?
Responsibility depends on your lease and which areas are shared. Generally, landlords must keep common areas, building entrances and pathways reasonably safe, while tenants may be asked to clear their own private walkways or balconies. Check your rental agreement and ask for clarification in writing if duties are unclear. For an overview of landlord and tenant duties, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
Practical tenant steps
- Clear your units sidewalk and entry within 48 hours after a snowfall to reduce slip risks.
- Use sand or salt to reduce slip hazards and maintain safety around your door.
- Report dangerous ice build-up that affects habitability and request repairs in writing to your landlord.
Landlord duties and common issues
Landlords are typically responsible for snow and ice removal on shared paths, exterior stairs and building entrances. If removal affects multiple tenants or public access, landlords should arrange professional services quickly. If your lease shifts some responsibility to you, the landlord must still ensure the property meets basic habitability and safety standards.
- Keep common walkways, stairs and building entrances free of hazardous ice and snow within a reasonable time after a storm.
- Arrange professional removal when hazards affect multiple units or public access.
When to ask for repairs and which forms to use
If snow and ice create a safety or habitability problem, start with a written request to your landlord describing the issue and the remedy you want. Save a dated copy and photos. If the landlord does not respond, you may apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies for dispute resolution [1]. Common official steps include a written notice asking for repair and, if unresolved, an application to the tenancy office to order removal or remediation [2].
Practical example: if the building entry is iced over and the landlord does not arrange removal after a written request, photograph the area, send a dated email or text asking for action, and file an application with the provincial tenancy office if there is no response within a reasonable time.
How to document and report problems
- Keep dated photos or video of icy conditions and save copies of all messages and notices.
- Send a written request for removal or repair so there is a clear record of when the landlord was notified.
- If the issue is urgent and the landlord is unresponsive, call your property manager or emergency contact listed in the lease.
FAQ
- Who clears the sidewalk outside my rented house in Saskatchewan?
- Responsibility depends on your lease. Many landlords clear common areas while tenants clear private walkways; always check your rental agreement and ask for written clarification.
- Can a landlord charge me for snow removal?
- A landlord can charge only if your lease allows it or if the cost is a lawful deduction; get any agreement in writing and keep receipts. If you believe a charge is unfair, you can apply to the tenancy office.
- What if my landlord does nothing about dangerous ice?
- Document the condition, send a written request for action, and if there is no timely response you can file an application with the Office of Residential Tenancies for dispute resolution.
How-To
- Document the hazard with photos, date stamps and notes describing the location and time.
- Contact your landlord or property manager in writing and request removal or repairs, keeping copies of the message.
- If there is no response, file an application with the Office of Residential Tenancies and attach your documentation.
- Attend any scheduled dispute hearing and bring originals or copies of your photos, messages and lease clauses.
Help and Support / Resources
- Government of Saskatchewan: Residential Tenancies
- Office of Residential Tenancies: Forms and dispute resolution
