Tenant Rights & Responsibilities for New Tenants in Saskatchewan

Moving into a new rental home in Saskatchewan is an exciting step, but it's important to understand your legal rights and responsibilities as a tenant. The province has specific rules designed to protect tenants and set expectations for your landlord. Knowing these will help you avoid common issues and ensure that your tenancy is smooth and trouble-free.

Key Tenant Rights in Saskatchewan

Tenants in Saskatchewan have important rights under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.^[1] Here are the core rights every new tenant should know:

• Right to a safe, healthy home: Your rental must be fit for living and meet health and safety standards set by law.
• Right to privacy: Landlords must give at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your unit, except in emergencies.
• Right to receipts and information: You can ask for receipts for any payment made, and your landlord must provide you with the landlord's name and address in writing.
• Right to dispute resolution: If you have a conflict with your landlord, you can apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) for help.

For a comprehensive overview, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

Common Tenant Responsibilities

Your responsibilities as a tenant help maintain the rental property's condition and support a positive relationship with your landlord. These typically include:

• Paying rent in full and on time every month
• Keeping your unit clean and not damaging the property
• Repairing damage you or your guests cause
• Not disturbing your neighbours or other tenants
• Following the terms of your rental agreement

For more details about rules after you sign the lease, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Rental Agreements and Deposits

Your rental agreement is a legal contract that outlines the terms for your tenancy, such as rent, length, and rules. In Saskatchewan, most agreements are written, but verbal agreements are also valid in law. Always ask for a copy!

When you move in, your landlord can ask for a security deposit (sometimes called a damage deposit), but it cannot be more than one month's rent. This deposit is meant to cover unpaid rent or damages, aside from regular wear and tear.

See Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know for a full explanation of how deposits work and how to get your deposit back when you move out.

Maintenance, Repairs, and Safety

Landlords must keep the property in a good state of repair, meaning everything should be safe, clean, and functional. If you notice a maintenance problem or health and safety concern (like mould or broken heating), notify your landlord in writing as soon as possible.

• Your landlord is responsible for major repairs and maintaining the property’s systems (plumbing, heat, etc.).
• You are responsible for smaller repairs caused by you or your guests.

For more on health and safety, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Rent Payments and Increases

Rent must be paid on time as set out in your agreement. Landlords can only increase your rent once every 12 months, and they must give you at least two months’ written notice.

• Rent increases must follow the rules set by the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.
• If you have questions about paying rent, visit Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

If you feel your rent increase is not legal, contact the Office of Residential Tenancies for clarification or to dispute the increase.^[2]

Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Notice to Vacate (Form 6) – Use this form to give your landlord notice when you plan to move out. The amount of notice required depends on your tenancy type. View and download the official Notice to Vacate (Form 6). Example: If you’re on a month-to-month lease, you must provide a full month’s notice before moving out.
• Application for Dispute Resolution (Form 1) – File this form to the Office of Residential Tenancies if you need to resolve a dispute (e.g., deposit return, unpaid repairs). Download the Application for Dispute Resolution (Form 1). Example: If your landlord refuses to fix a problem after being notified, you can file this form to have the ORT make a decision.
• Condition of Premises Checklist – While not a required legal form, using an inspection checklist at move-in and move-out is strongly recommended. Landlords often provide one; otherwise, you can download the government's checklist here. Documenting the condition protects both you and your landlord.

Disputes and Where to Get Help

If you have a disagreement with your landlord that cannot be resolved, you may apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) for a hearing and decision. The ORT is the tribunal tasked with resolving landlord-tenant issues in Saskatchewan. They can help with:

• Deposit disputes
• Evictions
• Repairs and maintenance failures
• Breach of agreement

Even with disputes, you should keep paying your rent in full until the conflict is officially resolved to avoid risking your tenancy.

Moving In and Out

When you move in, inspect your rental unit thoroughly and note any existing damage or cleanliness issues using the checklist above. When moving out, give proper notice and leave the unit clean and undamaged to ensure a smooth deposit return.

If you're searching for your next home, you can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme with ease, using map-based search and real-time listings.

1. What are my rights if my landlord wants to evict me in Saskatchewan?
   Landlords can only evict tenants for specific reasons outlined in the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006—such as unpaid rent or significant property damage. They must provide written notice and follow official procedures. Tenants have the right to dispute an eviction notice through the Office of Residential Tenancies.
2. How does a rent increase work for tenants in Saskatchewan?
   Your landlord can only increase rent once every 12 months and must give two months’ written notice. If you’re on a fixed-term lease, rent usually cannot be raised during the term.
3. Can my landlord enter my apartment without notice?
   No. Landlords must give at least 24 hours’ written notice, unless there is an emergency (like a fire or urgent repair).
4. What should I do if my landlord won't do necessary repairs?
   First, provide written notice of the required repairs. If the issue is not resolved, you can file an Application for Dispute Resolution with the ORT. Keep a record of all communication and copies of forms submitted.
5. Do I have to use a checklist when moving in or out?
   It's strongly recommended to use a Condition of Premises Checklist and have both parties sign. This helps prevent disputes over damages and deposits later on.

1. How do I dispute a rent increase in Saskatchewan?
   1. Review your notice to ensure it follows the law. 2. If the increase seems unlawful, send a written objection to your landlord. 3. Gather evidence and file an Application for Dispute Resolution (Form 1) with the ORT. 4. Attend your scheduled hearing and present your case.
2. How do I properly end my tenancy and move out?
   1. Download and fill out the Notice to Vacate (Form 6). 2. Provide the required notice to your landlord (usually one month for month-to-month). 3. Clean your apartment and fix any damage. 4. Complete a move-out inspection with your landlord using the checklist. 5. Return your keys and provide your forwarding address for receiving your deposit refund.
3. How do I apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies?
   1. Download the Application for Dispute Resolution (Form 1). 2. Fill out the form and include all relevant documents. 3. Submit it by mail, in person, or online as directed. 4. Pay any required fees. 5. Attend your hearing as scheduled by the ORT.

Key Takeaways

• Understand your rights and responsibilities from day one; it helps prevent issues later.
• Always document your communications and use relevant forms when taking actions.
• Support and official resources are available—don’t hesitate to get help if you have questions or disagreements.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) – Provincial authority for complaints, disputes, and tenancy advice in Saskatchewan.
• Saskatchewan's Renting and Leasing Information – Comprehensive official guide for tenants and landlords.
• Saskatchewan Tenant's Handbook – Downloadable official handbook covering your rights and obligations.

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1. [1] Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 – Government of Saskatchewan
2. [2] Office of Residential Tenancies

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