Living with pests can be stressful and affect your health and safety. If you rent in Saskatchewan, you have rights and practical steps you can take when insects or rodents appear in your unit. This guide explains how to document infestations, communicate clearly with your landlord, use official forms, and when to apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies for a remedy. It uses plain language for tenants and renters so you can act confidently and protect your home and health while following Saskatchewan rules and timelines.
Who is responsible and which rules apply
In Saskatchewan, basic habitability standards require landlords to provide premises that are fit to live in and free from serious pest problems. The governing legislation is the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006[1], and disputes or orders are handled by the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT)[2]. If pests create health risks, public health guidance may also apply and can inform recommended treatments and safety steps[3].
Practical steps for tenants
Document the infestation
Start by gathering clear, time-stamped evidence you can show to your landlord or a tribunal. Detailed records make it easier to prove the problem and the landlord's response.
- Take dated photos and videos of pests, droppings, or damage.
- Keep a dated log of sightings: time, place, and what you observed.
- Save receipts for cleaning, temporary accommodations, or supplies you buy because of the infestation.
Notify your landlord in writing
Give the landlord a clear written notice describing the infestation, the date you first noticed it, and the action you request (inspection, treatment, or repair). Keep a copy for your records and send by a method you can prove (email with receipt, registered mail, or in-person with a witness).
- Describe the problem, include photos, and state when you first saw pests.
- Request a date for inspection or treatment and ask the landlord to respond within a reasonable time.
- Keep copies of all messages and responses as evidence.
When landlords arrange treatment
If the landlord hires pest control, confirm who will prepare units, whether you need to temporarily vacate, and how costs and follow-up will be handled. Follow the preparation instructions to ensure effective treatment and keep records of the treatment date and company used.
- Ask for the pest control company's name, treatment plan, and safety instructions.
- Take photos after treatment and note any recurrence.
If the landlord does not act
After documenting the problem and giving written notice, you may apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies for dispute resolution. The ORT can order a landlord to remedy infestations or compensate tenants when a landlord has failed to meet obligations. The application process asks for evidence and a clear statement of the remedy you want.
FAQ
- Who pays for pest control in a rental unit?
- Generally the landlord is responsible to address infestations that affect habitability. If the tenant caused the infestation through neglect, the landlord may seek compensation. Keep records to show whether the problem was pre-existing or caused by tenant actions.
- Can I hire an exterminator and deduct the cost from rent?
- Tenants should not unilaterally deduct pest-control costs from rent without a tribunal order. Instead, document the problem, notify the landlord, and apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies for an order if the landlord fails to act.
- How long will a tribunal decision take?
- Timelines vary. Provide complete documentation to speed the process and attend any scheduled hearing to present your evidence in person or by written submission.
How-To
- Gather evidence: photos, videos, dated logs, and receipts for any expenses.
- Send a clear written notice to your landlord describing the infestation and requested remedy.
- Allow reasonable time for the landlord to respond and arrange treatment.
- If the landlord doesn’t act, complete the ORT application and submit your evidence.
- Attend the hearing or provide written submissions and follow the tribunal order if granted.
Key Takeaways
- Act quickly and document everything with dates and photos.
- Always give written notice to your landlord before filing with the tribunal.
- Use official tenant resources and contact the Office of Residential Tenancies when necessary.
Help and Support / Resources
- Office of Residential Tenancies
- Residential Tenancies information — Government of Saskatchewan
- Public Health guidance on bed bugs — Government of Canada
