Everyone in Saskatchewan deserves safe and equitable access to rental housing—whether living solo, with family, or sharing a space with roommates. Unfortunately, some tenants encounter discrimination when searching for a home or during their tenancy. Knowing your rights and the steps you can take if you experience discrimination is crucial for all renters in the province.
What Is Tenant Discrimination in Saskatchewan?
Tenant discrimination happens when a landlord or roommate treats a tenant unfairly or refuses accommodation based on protected characteristics under the Saskatchewan Human Rights Code, 2018[1]. Examples include refusing to rent to someone because of their race, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, family status, disability, or source of income. This applies to both entire units and shared housing situations.
Who Is Protected?
All tenants and applicants—regardless of whether they are family, roommates, or subtenants—are protected from discrimination in rental housing. This includes people seeking to rent, renew a lease, or live in shared housing.
- Race, colour, nationality, or ancestry
- Religious beliefs or practices
- Sex (including gender identity/expression)
- Sexual orientation
- Marital or family status (including pregnancy or children)
- Disability (physical or mental)
- Receipt of public assistance or lawful income sources
- Age
Landlords cannot ask questions or implement policies that exclude, discourage, or penalize applicants based on these grounds.
Examples of Discrimination in Roommate and Shared Housing
Discrimination can take subtle or direct forms. In shared rentals, it is unlawful if:
- Advertisers exclude certain groups (e.g., "not suitable for families" or "adults only")
- Roommates or landlords reject you for your background or beliefs
- You are told you cannot have a support animal
- Your rental term is ended solely due to your relationship status or another protected reason
However, the law sometimes allows exceptions if the owner shares living areas and the building is small. Always check the specific situation or get advice.
What Landlords and Tenants Must Do
Both landlords and fellow tenants (in situations where one is acting as the "landlord" or is subletting) have responsibilities. Under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006[2]:
- Landlords cannot refuse housing or services due to protected personal characteristics
- Tenants must respect the rights of others in shared accommodation
For a clear outline on overall rights and obligations, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.
Your Right to Complain and Get Help
If you believe you've faced unlawful discrimination, you can make a formal complaint to the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission (SHRC). In addition, tenancy disputes over evictions or terms are handled by the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT).[3]
Examples where you may wish to file a complaint include:
- Eviction or refusal to rent because of your sex, family status, or another enumerated ground
- Being denied a necessary accommodation, such as an accessible unit
- Receiving harassing or threatening communications due to your identity
How to File a Discrimination Complaint in Saskatchewan
Filing a complaint with the SHRC is confidential and free. Here’s how to get started:
- Gather evidence: Save emails, text messages, written notices, or rental ads relevant to your claim.
- Contact the SHRC: Submit your complaint online, by phone, or by mail. Use the official Human Rights Complaint Form (PDF) and follow the instructions on the form.
- Receive confirmation: The SHRC will review your documentation and contact you about next steps.
For general tenancy issues (such as illegal eviction or breaches of your rental agreement), use the ORT’s dispute application process. The main form is the "Application for Hearing", found on the ORT forms page.
- Example: If you are evicted as a result of discrimination, you may file with both the SHRC and the ORT to address the human rights violation and tenancy dispute.
Related Tenant Resources
For more information about your rights as a renter, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan. For support in finding housing in your area, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings.
Other Common Issues in Shared Housing
Discrimination isn't the only challenge in shared rentals. Tenants also face disagreements, noise complaints, or disputes about cleaning and repairs. Knowing your basic responsibilities helps prevent misunderstandings. Refer to Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them for practical advice.
FAQ: Tenant Discrimination in Saskatchewan Rentals
- What should I do if I think I'm being discriminated against by my landlord or roommates?
If you believe you're experiencing discrimination, keep records of all interactions, gather evidence, and contact the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission to discuss your options. Filing a formal complaint is confidential and won’t cost you anything. - Is it legal for a landlord to refuse to rent to me because I have children?
No, refusing to rent based on family status (having children) is a form of discrimination under the Saskatchewan Human Rights Code and is generally prohibited. - What about "adults only" listings for shared rentals?
Listings that specify "adults only" or exclude families are often illegal, unless a specific exemption applies (such as owner-occupied buildings). If in doubt, seek legal advice or contact the SHRC. - Who enforces these rules in Saskatchewan?
The Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission enforces anti-discrimination provisions. The Office of Residential Tenancies deals with tenancy agreement disputes such as evictions and rent owing. - Can I be evicted for filing a human rights complaint?
No, it is illegal for a landlord to retaliate against you for asserting your rights. If this happens, seek immediate help from the SHRC or ORT.
Key Takeaways for Saskatchewan Tenants
- Discrimination based on protected grounds is illegal in Saskatchewan rentals—including shared housing and roommate arrangements.
- The Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission and Office of Residential Tenancies provide support for complaints and disputes.
- File your complaint using official forms and submit all evidence to strengthen your case.
If in doubt, always seek advice to protect your rights and document incidents as they occur.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission – Contact: Phone: 1-800-667-8577
- Government of Saskatchewan: Tenant and Landlord Information
- Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): Handles rental disputes and hearing applications
- Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan: Comprehensive information for Saskatchewan renters and landlords
- Saskatchewan Human Rights Code, 2018: Read the Saskatchewan Human Rights Code
- Residential Tenancies Act, 2006: See the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006
- Office of Residential Tenancies: Official Website
