Major repairs can force tenants to leave their rental temporarily. If you rent in Saskatchewan, it helps to know your rights, what notices you should receive, who pays for temporary accommodation, and how to document problems. This page explains when a landlord must provide or compensate for short-term housing, what reasonable timelines apply, and practical steps to protect your rent and security deposit. It also shows how to contact the provincial Office of Residential Tenancies, which adjudicates disputes, and which official forms tenants commonly use. Use these clear steps to communicate with your landlord, keep evidence, and apply for help if you cannot reach agreement. The guidance here is aimed at renters and tenants seeking practical, accessible information.[1]
When major repairs require temporary accommodation
Repairs that make a unit unsafe or uninhabitable — for example, extensive water damage, loss of heat in winter, or major structural work — can trigger the need for temporary housing. Whether the landlord must provide or pay for accommodation depends on the severity, the rental agreement terms, and provincial rules under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.[2]
Who pays, and what counts as reasonable
There are three common outcomes:
- The landlord pays for or reimburses reasonable temporary accommodation costs while repairs are needed.
- The tenant arranges alternative housing and seeks reimbursement or an offset against rent.
- Parties agree on a reduced rent or compensation for disruption.
What is "reasonable" depends on location and duration; keep receipts and written agreements. If you cannot agree, you can apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies for a decision.[1]
Notices, timelines and access
Tenants should expect written notice for planned entries, timelines for repairs, and clear communication about displacement. Key points to track:
- Receive written notice with dates and the reason for entry or displacement.
- Ask for timelines and whether accommodation will be provided within a specified number of days.
- Clarify how cost-sharing or reimbursement will be handled, including payment timing.
How to document problems and protect your rights
Good records make a strong case. Keep dated photos, videos, copies of notices, receipts for accommodation, and a written log of conversations. Send requests and notices by email and certified mail when possible so you have proof of delivery.
Step-by-step: applying for a decision
If discussions fail, you may apply to the provincial tribunal. Typical steps include completing the official application form, attaching evidence, and paying any fee listed on the forms page.[3]
- Use the official application form to request a hearing or decision from the Office of Residential Tenancies.
- Attach photos, receipts, a communication log, and copies of notices.
- Prepare to present your case at a hearing if one is scheduled.
FAQ
- Do landlords have to provide temporary housing during major repairs?
- Not always. In Saskatchewan a landlord may have to provide or pay for accommodation if the unit is uninhabitable; outcomes depend on the situation and can be decided by the Office of Residential Tenancies.[1]
- How should I record damage and repair needs?
- Take dated photos and videos, keep all receipts, save written notices, and log phone or in-person conversations with dates and names.
- What form do I use to ask the tribunal for help?
- Use the Office of Residential Tenancies application form found on the province's forms page to request a hearing or decision; include evidence and a clear statement of the outcome you seek.[3]
How-To
- Contact your landlord in writing to explain the issue and request temporary accommodation or reimbursement.
- Collect evidence: photos, videos, receipts and a dated log of communications.
- Keep all receipts for alternative housing and request written confirmation of reimbursement or payment plans.
- If you cannot agree, complete the official application to the Office of Residential Tenancies and submit supporting documents.[3]
- Attend the hearing or telephone conference with organized evidence and a concise explanation of the remedy you want.
Key Takeaways
- Document everything: photos, receipts, written notices and a communication log.
- Start with written communication to your landlord and seek a clear timeline and plan for accommodation.
- If you cannot resolve the issue, apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies using the official forms.
Help and Support / Resources
- Office of Residential Tenancies, Government of Saskatchewan
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Government of Saskatchewan)
- Office of Residential Tenancies forms and fees
