Can my landlord increase the rent during my lease term as a student?

Generally, rent cannot be raised during a fixed-term lease. For month-to-month agreements, landlords must provide at least three months’ written notice and comply with provincial regulations.

Is my security deposit refundable after I move out?

Yes. If you meet your lease obligations and leave the unit clean and undamaged, your deposit (with interest) should be returned within seven business days.

Are university residences covered by the same rental laws as private apartments?

University-owned residences are often exempt from the Residential Tenancies Act. Check with your campus housing office.

What can I do if my landlord refuses to do urgent repairs?

You may apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies using Form 7 to request an order for repairs if your landlord does not address them promptly.

How do I legally leave my lease early if I transfer or drop out?

You'll need to provide proper written notice, or potentially find another tenant to take over your lease. Always consult your lease and provincial rules before acting.

Student Lease Rules in Saskatchewan: Key Tenant Tips

Special Tenancy Situations Saskatchewan published: June 19, 2025

Renting student housing in Saskatchewan comes with its own set of rules and protections. If you're a student signing your first lease or moving off-campus, understanding your rights and responsibilities is essential. This guide covers key regulations, common issues faced by student tenants, and the steps you can take to safeguard your rental journey.

Which Laws Apply to Student Housing in Saskatchewan?

In Saskatchewan, most student tenancies are covered by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (RTA)¹. University residences owned and operated by public bodies may be exempt, but private off-campus rentals and most shared accommodations fall under the Act.

Institutional Vs. Private Student Housing

University Residence (On-Campus): Often exempt from the RTA, with separate university-run contracts and complaint mechanisms.
Private Rentals: Typical apartments, rooming houses, and shared homes rented off-campus are usually covered by the RTA.

Always double-check if your accommodation is governed by the RTA or by a different set of rules with your landlord or institution.

Key Lease Features for Student Tenants

Before you sign a student housing lease, pay close attention to these vital areas:

Lease Type: Most student rentals use fixed-term (for example, September–April) or month-to-month leases. Understand if you're committing for a full school year or if you can end your lease early.
Roommate Agreements: If you share your unit with roommates, clarify whether you are all on the same lease (joint tenants) or have separate agreements. Joint tenants are equally responsible for the full rent.
Rental Deposits: Landlords can collect a security deposit of up to one month's rent in Saskatchewan. Learn your rights for deposit refunds, deductions, and timelines.

For an in-depth look at how deposits work, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Moving In: Inspections, Repairs, and Safety

Every rental should be safe and habitable. Landlords have a legal duty to maintain the property, address major repairs, and ensure it meets provincial health and safety standards.

Before you move in, it's a good idea to request a written inspection of the unit's condition.
Take photos of any pre-existing issues and document them in writing to avoid disputes when moving out.

If you're unsure about property condition or rights around repairs, consult Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

What About Repairs During Your Stay?

Landlords must act promptly when you request essential repairs. For emergencies, like broken heat in winter, there are accelerated timelines and extra protections for tenants.

Always report repair needs or safety issues to your landlord in writing. Keep copies of all correspondence.

Common Student Rental Challenges

Student tenants sometimes run into unique problems, such as:

Ending the Lease Early: If your plans change, know your duties. Breaking a fixed-term lease may require finding a replacement tenant or paying fees.
Privacy Rights: Your landlord must give proper notice (usually 24 hours) before entering your unit, except in emergencies.
Subletting: Many students leave for the summer. You usually need landlord approval in writing to sublet your place. Follow proper process to avoid penalties.
Rent Increases: Rent can only be increased with written notice and in line with provincial rules. In many cases, increases are regulated by the Office of Residential Tenancies.

Official Forms and Practical Steps

The Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) handles tenancy disputes in Saskatchewan. If you have a problem, these forms and processes are especially helpful:

Form 7: Application for Hearing – Used to resolve most tenancy disputes, such as disagreements over deposits, repairs, or lease termination. Download it from the official Rental Housing Forms page.
Notice to Vacate Forms – To end a lease, landlords and tenants must use the prescribed notice forms, also available from the province's Rental Housing Forms library.

Example: If your landlord does not refund your deposit within seven business days after you move out, you can complete Form 7 and submit it to the ORT for a hearing.

Your Rights: Where to Learn More

Understanding your protections is empowering. You can review a detailed breakdown of your rights and obligations as a tenant on the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan page. For expanded rental support and apartment search tools, Browse apartments for rent in Canada with trusted listings.

FAQ: Student Tenancy in Saskatchewan

Can my landlord increase the rent during my lease term as a student?
Generally, rent cannot be raised during a fixed-term lease. For month-to-month agreements, landlords must provide at least three months’ written notice and comply with provincial regulations.
Is my security deposit refundable after I move out?
Yes. If you meet your lease obligations and leave the unit clean and undamaged, your deposit (with interest) should be returned within seven business days.
Are university residences covered by the same rental laws as private apartments?
University-owned residences are often exempt from the Residential Tenancies Act. Check with your campus housing office.
What can I do if my landlord refuses to do urgent repairs?
You may apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies using Form 7 to request an order for repairs if your landlord does not address them promptly.
How do I legally leave my lease early if I transfer or drop out?
You'll need to provide proper written notice, or potentially find another tenant to take over your lease. Always consult your lease and provincial rules before acting.

Key Takeaways for Student Tenants

Know whether your rental is covered by the Residential Tenancies Act or separate rules.
Read your lease carefully, especially regarding deposits, repairs, and early termination.
Use official channels for disputes or complaints, and keep documentation of all communications.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Saskatchewan Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) – For forms, dispute resolution, and publications
University of Saskatchewan Student Tenant Resources
Saskatoon Housing Coalition – Tenant support and advocacy

Residential Tenancies Act, 2006: Saskatchewan Government – Rental Legislation
Saskatchewan Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): Official Tribunal for Tenancies
Rental Housing Forms: Saskatchewan Rental Forms