When a building is condemned in Saskatchewan, renters need clear, practical steps to protect health, finances and legal rights. This guide explains what condemnation means for tenants and renters, how to document hazards, who to contact, and which official forms and deadlines apply in Saskatchewan. You will learn immediate actions to stay safe, how to request written orders or decisions, and how to pursue deposits or compensation if the unit becomes uninhabitable. The goal is to help tenants navigate safety notices, communicate effectively with landlords and access government resources so they can find safe housing and preserve their tenancy rights.
What condemnation means and your immediate rights
Condemnation usually follows a municipal or provincial safety order declaring a unit unsafe to occupy. Tenants are entitled to clear information about the reason for the order, the deadlines to vacate (if any), and any steps required before they can safely return. The authority that issues the order will set timelines and conditions; you should get a written copy and keep it with your records for any future dispute or application.[1] The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 sets the legal framework for tenancy rights and remedies in Saskatchewan and is the statute used when disputes about habitability or ending tenancies arise.[2]
- Document the problem: take dated photos and videos of the hazard and write short notes describing when you first noticed it.
- Tell your landlord in writing (email or text and a printed letter if possible) that the property has been condemned and request the official order or report.
- Get the official order: ask the inspector or municipal office for a copy of the condemnation notice and any timelines it contains.
- Follow safety instructions: if the order requires evacuation, leave promptly and follow any guidance from emergency or public health officials.
- Keep receipts for extra expenses such as hotels, storage or moving costs — these can support claims later.
Steps to protect your tenancy and finances
After immediate safety needs, focus on formal steps: request written confirmation of the reason for condemnation, ask the landlord in writing how they will address repairs or relocation, and preserve any security deposit or rent receipts. If the landlord or authority suggests ending the tenancy, request clear, dated paperwork defining terms and effective dates so you can rely on it in a tribunal application or for deposit recovery.[2]
Official forms and where to find them
In Saskatchewan the government publishes forms and guidance for tenants and landlords. Common documents relevant after a condemnation include a written evacuation or order from the inspecting authority and tenancy forms you can use to request a ruling or decision. For practical use:
- Order or Condemnation Notice — issued by the municipal inspector or public health official; ask the issuing office how to get a certified copy and retain it as evidence.
- Application to the Director or the residential tenancy decision-maker — use when you need a formal determination about ending the tenancy, deposit returns, or compensation; include photos, receipts and a timeline of events.
If you need temporary housing or are searching for a new rental quickly, consider resources that list available units and support short-term searches. Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme can help you view current listings by area while you sort the tenancy issues.
If you want more detail on health hazards and when to involve public health or code enforcement, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for practical tips on documenting and reporting unsafe conditions.
FAQ
- Can my landlord evict me immediately if the property is condemned?
- No. A condemnation or safety order may require you to vacate for safety reasons, but landlords must follow the formal tenancy rules and any timelines in the official order or under the Residential Tenancies Act. If a landlord attempts a summary eviction or requests you leave without proper written notice and process, you can apply to the decision-maker for directions or to protect your deposit.[2]
- Am I entitled to compensation or relocation assistance?
- Compensation depends on the circumstances. If the unit is uninhabitable through no fault of your own, you may be able to seek reimbursement for reasonable relocation costs or a return of deposits. File an application with the appropriate residential tenancy decision-maker and include receipts and evidence. The decision-maker will consider the official order, the landlord's actions, and your losses.[1]
- How do I get my security deposit back if I have to move because of condemnation?
- Request the deposit in writing from your landlord and keep copies. If the landlord refuses, file an application with the residential tenancy decision-maker and attach your move-out evidence, the condemnation order, and receipts. The tribunal can order return of the deposit with interest when appropriate.
How-To
- Obtain and save the official condemnation or inspection order and note any deadlines in the document.
- Document the condition with dated photos, short notes and videos showing hazards.
- Notify the landlord in writing, request their remediation plan or written confirmation of next steps, and keep copies of all messages.
- Prepare and submit an application to the residential tenancy decision-maker if you need a formal order for compensation, deposit return, or to confirm the tenancy status.
- Arrange temporary housing if required, keep all receipts, and ask the decision-maker to consider those expenses in any claim.
- Seek advice from tenant services or legal clinics early — they can help you prepare evidence and represent your interests in an application.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies, Government of Saskatchewan
- Publications Saskatchewan (legislation and official acts)
- Residential Tenancies: Forms and publications, Government of Saskatchewan
