What should I do if my landlord ignores my repair requests?

Document your repair requests in writing. If there is no response within a reasonable time, file a complaint with the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT).

Can I withhold rent if repairs aren't made?

No. Saskatchewan tenants must continue paying rent, even during repair disputes. Instead, seek an order through the ORT.

How long should I wait for my landlord to respond?

For urgent repairs, 24–48 hours is reasonable. For non-urgent matters, wait up to 7 days before taking further action.

Who can help if the issue is a health hazard, like mold?

Contact your local Public Health Office or bylaw office, as well as the ORT, to ensure urgent repairs are addressed.

Which forms do I need to submit a complaint?

Use the Application for Hearing (Form 3) from the ORT, including all communication history with your landlord.

Tenant Remedies for Unresponsive Landlords in Saskatchewan

Special Tenancy Situations Saskatchewan published: June 20, 2025

Living in a Saskatchewan rental, tenants rely on their landlords to address maintenance, repairs, and communication promptly. But when your landlord does not reply to calls or written requests—especially about heating, leaks, or health and safety—what are your options? This guide explains practical steps and your legal rights under Saskatchewan law when dealing with an unresponsive landlord.

Your Rights and Your Landlord's Responsibilities in Saskatchewan

Landlords in Saskatchewan are legally required to keep the rental unit in a good state of repair and to respond to reasonable requests from tenants. These requirements are outlined in The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.^[1] This means responding to issues such as heating, plumbing, and safety hazards. If a landlord falls short, tenants have remedies—especially for urgent or health-related matters.

To better understand your ongoing rights and obligations, review Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained, which highlights the duties of both parties in detail.

Common Scenarios Where Landlord Unresponsiveness Matters

No action on maintenance or repairs, such as leaky roofs or broken heating.
Delays in responding to written requests.
Failure to address health or safety issues, like mold or pests.

Step-by-Step: What to Do When Your Landlord Doesn't Respond

Begin by documenting all your communication attempts. Written records strengthen your case if you need to take further action. Here's what you should do:

Send a detailed written request (by email, text, or letter; keep a copy) describing the problem and requesting a timeline for repairs or response.
Wait a reasonable time. For urgent or health and safety concerns, 24–48 hours is typically expected. For non-urgent repairs, a week is generally sufficient.
If you do not receive a reply or repairs are not made, move on to the formal complaint process described below.

Filing a Complaint with Saskatchewan's Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT)

If the landlord continues to ignore your communications, you can seek help from the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT). The ORT resolves rental disputes and enforces tenancy laws in Saskatchewan.

Key Form: Application for Dispute Resolution

Form Name: Application for Hearing/Order of Possession (Form 3, if seeking repairs, rent reduction, or an order for a landlord to act)
When to Use: After your landlord ignores reasonable written requests for repairs, entry, or safety concerns.
How to Use: Fill out the official Application for Hearing form (PDF). Outline your issue, include your documentation, and submit to the ORT. The form provides instructions and current fees. The ORT will schedule a hearing and notify your landlord.
For a practical example: If your heating breaks down in January, you notify your landlord by email and phone but hear nothing. You can fill out this form, submit your supporting documents, and ask the ORT to order repairs or a rent reduction.

Important: Emergency issues like flooding or loss of heat should be reported as soon as possible. Consider referring to Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities if your health or safety is at immediate risk.

If There Are Health or Safety Issues

If your landlord’s unresponsiveness affects your health or safety (mold, pests, broken locks), you should contact your local Public Health Office (for public health risks) or municipal bylaw office. Officials can inspect and order urgent repairs. See Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for details on common habitability problems and your protections.

For more general questions about landlord-tenant laws in your province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

Looking for a more responsive rental experience? Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings and browse properties managed by reputable landlords across Canada.

FAQ: Unresponsive Landlords in Saskatchewan

What should I do if my landlord ignores my repair requests?
Document your requests in writing. If you receive no response after a reasonable time, you can file a complaint with the Office of Residential Tenancies.
Can I withhold rent if repairs aren't made?
No. Saskatchewan law does not allow tenants to withhold rent. Instead, seek an ORT order for repairs or a rent reduction.
How long should I wait for my landlord to respond?
For urgent repairs, wait 24–48 hours. For less urgent matters, 7 days is reasonable before taking formal steps.
Who can help if the issue is a health hazard, like mold?
Contact your local Public Health Office or bylaw office in addition to the ORT. They can order repairs to protect your health.
Which forms do I need to submit a complaint?
Use the Application for Hearing form from the ORT. Include details and copies of your communications with your landlord.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

Always document all attempts to contact your landlord. Written communication strengthens your case.
If your landlord remains unresponsive, you have the right to file an official complaint with the ORT.
Health or safety issues should be reported urgently to local authorities, including Public Health or municipal bylaw officers.

Knowing your rights and the proper steps can help resolve issues efficiently while protecting your tenancy.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) – Saskatchewan: Handles complaints, applications, and dispute resolution.
Saskatchewan Public Health Offices: Find your local office for reporting health and safety hazards.
Local Tenant Advisory Services: Community Legal Assistance Services for Saskatoon Inner City (CLASSIC), or local legal clinics, can provide support with applications and hearings.
For more information on your rights, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan): View official legislation
Office of Residential Tenancies, Government of Saskatchewan: Official tribunal information and forms
Application for Hearing/Order of Possession (Form 3): Official form link (PDF)