Top 5 Maintenance & Repairs Tips for Saskatchewan Tenants

As a tenant in Saskatchewan, understanding your maintenance and repair rights can prevent frustrations and protect your living conditions. This guide breaks down the most important things you should know about rental repairs, who is responsible, how to report issues, and where to turn if problems arise. Whether it’s a leaky roof or a heater that won’t turn on, knowing your options can make all the difference.

The Basics: Landlord and Tenant Maintenance Responsibilities

Both landlords and tenants have clear roles when it comes to upkeep. Landlords must keep the property safe, fit for habitation, and ensure vital services—like heat and water—are operational. Meanwhile, tenants should promptly report any issues and avoid causing damage. These obligations are set out under The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1].

• Landlords must address structural repairs, heating, plumbing, pest control, and appliances provided in the lease.
• Tenants are responsible for keeping the unit clean and doing minor routine tasks (like replacing light bulbs), plus reporting damage or malfunctions quickly.

For a more detailed look at obligations, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Routine vs. Emergency Repairs: What’s the Difference?

Routine repairs may include minor faucet leaks or appliance fixes. Emergency repairs are urgent—such as no heat in winter or broken plumbing—and must be addressed immediately for health or safety. For more, visit Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities and Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

If your landlord won’t respond to a true emergency, you may have the right to pay for the repair and deduct it from your rent—but always document attempts to contact your landlord first and keep all receipts.

How to Report Maintenance Issues in Saskatchewan

Always notify your landlord as soon as you notice a problem. While phone calls are helpful, putting your request in writing provides a record. Include:

• Date and time you noticed the problem
• Detailed description of the issue
• Photos or video (where possible)
• How the issue affects you (e.g., can’t use the shower)

If the landlord fails to make repairs in a reasonable time, you can apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT).

Official Repair/Complaint Form

• Form Name: Application for Remedy (Form 7A)
• When to Use: When urgent repairs are ignored or to seek compensation for unaddressed maintenance issues.
• Where to Find: Application for Remedy (Form 7A)
• Example: If your heating system fails in winter and the landlord does not fix it after you provide written notice, you can submit Form 7A to the ORT to order the repair or seek compensation.

Health and Safety: When Repairs Affect Your Well-being

Some maintenance issues can compromise your health and safety, such as mold growth, pest infestations, or problems with heating and water. Landlords must prioritize these repairs to keep the rental habitable under the law.

For further details, read Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Dispute Resolution: The Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT)

If a repair dispute cannot be resolved with your landlord, you can apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT), Saskatchewan’s tribunal handling rental matters. The ORT handles complaints, holds hearings, and issues binding decisions.

• Include copies of written requests and evidence (photos, correspondence) with your application.
• The ORT can order repairs, award compensation, or other remedies depending on your case.

Disputes should be handled promptly to avoid escalation and ensure your rental remains safe and comfortable.

If you want to know more about tenant rights and legal rules in your province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

For more housing tips, Browse apartments for rent in Canada.

1. What if my landlord doesn't respond to a repair request?
   If your landlord does not address repairs after written notice, you can apply to the ORT using Form 7A for a remedy, such as ordering the repair or compensation.
2. Can I withhold rent until repairs are made?
   No. Saskatchewan law requires that you continue paying rent. Instead, use the official process through the ORT to resolve repair disputes.
3. Who pays for pest control in my rental?
   Generally, landlords are responsible unless the tenant caused the infestation. Always report pests in writing and keep records.
4. How quickly must emergency repairs be carried out?
   There is no set legal timeframe, but emergencies (like no heat in winter or broken plumbing) must be addressed as quickly as possible to ensure health and safety.
5. What documents should I keep after reporting a repair?
   Keep copies of all written requests, correspondence, receipts (if you paid for repairs), and photos/videos of the issue.

1. How do I report a maintenance issue to my landlord?
   Write a dated letter or email describing the problem, include photos if possible, and keep a copy for your records.
2. How do I apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies for a repair order?
   Complete Form 7A, gather your evidence (photos, written requests), and submit them to the ORT in person or by mail.
3. How can I get help if my rental is unsafe?
   Contact your local health authority and submit an application to the ORT if repairs are not made.
4. How long should I wait before escalating a repair issue?
   Give your landlord a reasonable amount of time (usually a few days to a week for urgent repairs); escalate if no action is taken.

Key Takeaways for Saskatchewan Tenants

• Landlords are responsible for most repairs; tenants must report issues promptly.
• Document all repair requests in writing for your protection.
• If repairs aren’t made, you can apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies for help.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Government of Saskatchewan: Renters' Rights and Responsibilities
• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) – Inquiries: 1-888-215-2222 or ort@gov.sk.ca
• Local Public Health Inspectors – Contact your regional health authority for health/safety complaints
• Find more tenant resources at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan

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1. ^[1] The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (SK)

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