Splitting Rent and Deposits With Roommates in Saskatchewan

Living with roommates in Saskatchewan can be a great way to save on housing costs, but it requires careful planning when it comes to splitting rent and deposits. Understanding your rights and responsibilities can help prevent confusion and protect your interests during your tenancy.

How Rent and Deposits Work With Roommates in Saskatchewan

When two or more tenants share a rental home, it's important to know how payments, deposits, and legal obligations are divided. In Saskatchewan, the rules depend on how your rental agreement is set up:

• All roommates sign one lease together: Each tenant is jointly (together) and severally (individually) responsible for the full rent and any damage or cleaning deposits.
• Each roommate has a separate lease or agreement: Each tenant is only responsible for their part.

Discuss splitting payments before moving in and put all agreements in writing. The Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) handles rental disputes in the province.

How to Split Rent Fairly

Here are some common methods to divide rent among roommates:

• Equally: Split the rent evenly if rooms and amenities are similar.
• By room size: Adjust for larger bedrooms or private bathrooms.
• Custom agreements: Factor in who gets parking, storage, etc.

If possible, set up a joint bank transfer or e-transfer schedule so everyone pays their share of the rent on time.

Damage and Security Deposits in Saskatchewan

Landlords can charge a security deposit up to one month's rent. Typically, all roommates pay a share of this deposit. It's important to clarify:

• Who paid what portion of the deposit
• What happens if someone moves out early
• How the deposit will be split when returned

For more on deposit rules—including required receipts, return timelines, and what deductions are allowed—read Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Handling Move-Outs and Roommate Changes

If one roommate moves out before the lease ends, the remaining tenants may still be responsible for the full rent and damages. It’s a good idea to create a written agreement about what happens in this scenario.

To get your deposit back, all tenants usually need to agree. If there are disputes, the ORT can help resolve them.

Relevant Forms and Practical Steps for Tenants

Here are some useful forms and steps when splitting rent and deposits:

• Condition of Premises Report (Form 5): Used to document the unit’s state at move-in and move-out. Each roommate should sign. Download from the Government of Saskatchewan. This protects your deposit by recording existing damages.
• Notice of Termination of a Tenancy (Form 7A or 7B): Used if you or a roommate wish to end the tenancy. Fill this out and give correct notice as required by law. Download from the official site.

Filling out these forms properly can prevent disagreements when roommates change or move out.

Paying Rent and Protecting Yourself

Every roommate should contribute their share of the rent on time. If someone's payment is missing, all tenants listed on the lease may risk late fees or eviction.

Read Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips for strategies on managing payments and what to do if there's a problem.

Make sure everyone keeps proof of payments (bank records, receipts) and communications with the landlord.

What the Law Says: Key Protections in Saskatchewan

The The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 outlines rights and duties for tenants and landlords in Saskatchewan. It covers rent, deposits, repairs, and terminations. All roommates are protected under this law, but it’s crucial to know that the law applies collectively if all names appear on the lease.

For a detailed overview of provincial rights, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

Finding Rental Homes and Moving In

If you’re planning to rent with roommates, start your search early and compare options. You can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to discover apartments and houses suitable for groups. Always tour the rental together and read the agreement carefully before signing.

FAQ: Roommates, Rent, and Deposits in Saskatchewan

1. Who gets the deposit back if one roommate moves out?
   All tenants named on the lease are entitled to a share of the deposit when the tenancy ends. If a roommate leaves early, it’s best to agree in writing on internal reimbursements.
2. Can a landlord split the deposit and rent between tenants?
   Landlords collect one deposit and one rent payment per lease, not per roommate. Roommates should arrange how to split costs among themselves.
3. What happens if only one roommate pays rent late?
   If rent is late, the landlord can apply to the ORT against all tenants on the lease, not just the one who missed payment.
4. Are roommates responsible for damage caused by others?
   Yes. If you’re all on the lease, everyone is responsible for the cost of damages—even if caused by only one roommate. Make a written agreement about sharing liabilities.
5. How do I remove my name from a lease if I move out?
   Speak with your landlord. They may require written notice and a new agreement with remaining tenants. Use the Notice of Termination form and ensure proper notice is given.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tenants Sharing Rent and Deposits

• Decide in writing how rent and deposits are divided among roommates
• Use official forms—such as Condition of Premises Report—to protect your rights
• Everyone on the lease is responsible for rent, damages, and deposits under Saskatchewan law
• Keep records of payments and agreements

Discuss responsibilities early and put your agreement in writing to avoid misunderstandings later.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) – Saskatchewan's tribunal for rental issues, complaints, and forms
• Government of Saskatchewan – Housing and Renting
• Saskatchewan Renters Rights (Advocacy)

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1. The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006: Read the official law here
2. Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) forms and guides: Official forms page
3. Saskatchewan Government Housing and Renting: Information and FAQ

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