Tenant Rights When a Landlord Sells a Rental in Saskatchewan

As a tenant in Saskatchewan, you may wonder what happens if your landlord decides to sell the property you're renting. It's important to know that the law offers several protections for tenants in these situations. This guide explains your rights, notice requirements, and how tenancy is affected when a property is sold in Saskatchewan.

What Tenants Need to Know If Their Rental Is Sold

When a landlord sells a rental property in Saskatchewan, the sale itself does not automatically end your tenancy. Your lease continues under the new owner, and your current terms and rent amount remain in effect, whether you are renting month-to-month or under a fixed-term lease.

• Month-to-Month Tenancy: The new landlord becomes your landlord and must follow all the same rules.
• Fixed-Term Tenancy: Your lease terms cannot be changed, and you can stay until the end of your fixed term, unless both parties agree otherwise or a valid termination notice is given as per the law.

If you want a deeper understanding of your ongoing rights and responsibilities, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Notice to Enter for Showings

Under the Saskatchewan Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) regulations, your landlord must provide at least 24 hours written notice before entering your unit to show it to prospective buyers. Showings must be at reasonable times.^[1]

Can a New Landlord End My Tenancy After a Sale?

Usually, a new owner must honour your existing lease. However, in some situations, if the new owner or their close family wants to move in, or if there is a planned demolition or major renovation, they may be able to end the tenancy — but only by following the correct legal procedures and using approved forms with proper notice periods.

• For owner occupancy, at least 2 months' written notice is required.
• Your tenancy cannot be ended merely because the home is sold.
• Your security deposit and any prepaid rent must be transferred to the new landlord.

Required Official Forms and What Tenants Should Expect

• Notice to End a Tenancy for Landlord's Use of Property (Form 7): Used when a new owner or their immediate family intends to move in. You must receive written notice at least 2 months before your tenancy ends. Download Form 7 (Landlord's Use). For example, if you receive this notice on May 15, your tenancy would end July 31.
• Change of Landlord/Agent (Form 12): The new landlord should complete this notice to inform you of ownership change. See Form 12 (Change of Landlord/Agent).

If you disagree with the notice given or believe it is not in compliance with the Saskatchewan Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, you have the right to file a dispute with the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT).

What Happens to My Security Deposit?

Your security deposit is protected by law, and it must be transferred from the old landlord to the new one when the property is sold. Always keep records of your payments.

Tenant Action Steps When Your Rental is Being Sold

• Request written proof of new ownership (such as a Form 12 notice)
• Continue paying rent as usual unless you are formally notified of changes
• If you receive a two-month notice to vacate, check that it’s on the correct official form and submitted properly
• Contact the Office of Residential Tenancies or a tenant advocacy group with any concerns

For more details about ending your tenancy in any situation, see How to Properly End Your Rental Agreement as a Tenant.

Looking for a new place to live after your tenancy ends? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme with easy search tools.

To learn more about regulations and rights in your province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan for a full overview.

FAQ: Tenant Rights After a Property Sale in Saskatchewan

1. Does selling the property automatically end my lease? No. The sale does not terminate your tenancy. Your lease continues with the new owner under the same terms.
2. Can I be asked to move out if the new owner wants to live in the property? Yes, but only with at least two months’ written notice using the correct official form.
3. Who do I pay rent to after the property is sold? Pay rent to the new landlord once you receive official notification of the change.
4. What happens to my damage deposit after a sale? It must be transferred to the new owner and remains protected by law.
5. Where can I go if I think my rights are being violated? Contact the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) to file a complaint or seek guidance.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Saskatchewan Tenants

• Your tenancy is secure even if your landlord sells the property.
• Only a proper legal notice can end your lease early, with required forms and timelines.
• Security deposits and other lease conditions continue with the new owner.

Remember, staying informed ensures you are protected against misunderstandings or unlawful actions if your landlord is selling your rental.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT): Handles tenancy disputes, complaints, and questions throughout Saskatchewan.
• Saskatchewan Landlord and Tenant Board: See full resources, guides, and tenant forms on government sites.
• Saskatchewan Government Renting and Leasing Resource
• Local tenant advocacy organizations: Offer support and information about your rights and dispute resolution.

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1. Saskatchewan Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 – View the full legislation
2. Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT), Government of Saskatchewan – Official site
3. Residential Tenancy Forms (Government of Saskatchewan) – Form library

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