Top 50 Moving In/Out Questions for Saskatchewan Tenants

Moving In / Out Saskatchewan published June 26, 2025 Flag of Saskatchewan
Who regulates rental housing in Saskatchewan?
The Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) regulates residential tenancies. Learn more.
What law covers renting in Saskatchewan?
The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 governs most rentals in Saskatchewan.
How much notice must I give to move out?
For month-to-month, you must give one full month's written notice.
How do I give proper notice to end my tenancy?
Give written notice with your move-out date to your landlord at least one full rental period in advance.
Can I give notice by email or text?
Written notice must be delivered in person, by mail, or as allowed by your lease—check if email is accepted.
What form do I use to give notice?
The ORT does not require a special form for tenants, but provides a Notice to End Tenancy by Tenant template.
Can my landlord ask for a damage/security deposit?
Yes, up to one month’s rent is allowed as a security deposit.
When should my security deposit be returned?
Within 7 business days of tenancy ending and keys returned, unless you agree otherwise.
Can the landlord keep my deposit for cleaning or damages?
Yes, but only for unpaid rent, damages, cleaning beyond reasonable use, or unpaid utilities.
What if my landlord won’t return my deposit?
You can apply to the ORT to recover your deposit. Use the Application for Hearing (Form 5).
Do I need to clean before I move out?
Yes, restore the unit to the same condition it was at move-in, minus normal wear and tear.
What is a move-in inspection?
It’s a walk-through with your landlord at move-in to record the condition of the property.
What is a move-out inspection?
It’s a walk-through at move-out to check for damages compared to move-in condition.
Is a move-in or move-out inspection required by law?
Yes, both tenant and landlord must complete written condition reports together at both move-in and move-out.
What happens if I miss the inspection?
The landlord must give you 2 opportunities. If you miss both, the landlord can do it without you but must provide the report within 7 days.
Do I have to pay rent for the whole notice period if I move early?
Yes, you’re responsible for rent until the notice period ends unless a new tenant moves in before then.
Can I get out of my lease early?
Only if you and the landlord agree, or in specific situations like risk of violence with proper proof.
What if my landlord tries to evict me during my notice period?
If you have paid rent and given legal notice, you can remain until your end date unless otherwise ordered by the ORT.
How does subletting work?
You can sublet with written landlord consent; they can’t unreasonably refuse.
What’s the difference between assigning and subletting?
Assigning transfers the lease to someone new. Subletting means a new tenant temporarily occupies the unit, but you remain responsible.
If I break my lease, will I lose my security deposit?
You may lose it if you owe rent, caused damages, or didn’t give proper notice.
Can my landlord enter during move-out?
Yes, for showings with 24 hours written notice to you, unless you agree to less.
What notice does my landlord need to enter for an inspection?
24 hours written notice, except in emergency.
Can I withhold rent if my deposit isn’t returned?
No, you must pay rent on time and seek deposit return separately through the ORT.
What if my lease says something different about moving out?
The law overrides lease terms if they provide fewer rights than the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.
Can my landlord keep my deposit for “normal wear and tear”?
No, only for damages, not regular wear and tear.
Do I need to pay for professional carpet cleaning?
No, unless the carpets are unusually dirty beyond normal use.
Can I move out mid-month?
Yes, but you must still pay rent for the notice period.
What if I lose my keys during move-out?
You may be charged for lock replacement or key copying if not returned.
Do I get a statement of account at move-out?
Yes, the landlord must provide a written statement showing any deposit deductions.
Can I end my tenancy early due to family violence?
Yes, apply for a 28-Day Notice with a Victims Services Certificate. Info: More details.
Can my landlord refuse to do a walk-through?
No, landlords must give you two opportunities for both move-in and move-out inspections.
What is the Notice to Vacate (Form 7)?
Form 7 is used by landlords to end tenancy. You may receive it for valid reasons. See Form 7.
How do I dispute a Notice to Vacate?
Apply to the ORT using Form 5: Application for Hearing within 15 days.
How do I get my mail redirected after I move?
Contact Canada Post to set up mail forwarding to your new address.
Can I remove any fixtures I installed?
Only if you restore the unit to its original condition, or as agreed with the landlord.
Can my landlord charge for painting?
Not for normal wear, but you may be charged if you painted without permission or damaged walls.
Can a landlord raise the rent before I move out?
Only with proper written notice, and not during a fixed-term lease.
Can the landlord show my unit to new tenants before I leave?
Yes, with 24 hours written notice, and reasonable frequency.
When should I turn off utilities after moving out?
After the end of your tenancy and with mutual agreement; otherwise, keep them on until you return the keys.
What if I leave things behind when I move out?
The landlord must store them for 30 days. You may be charged for storage.
Can my landlord keep my furniture if I owe money?
Landlords can't sell or keep your property without ORT order.
What’s a Notice to End Tenancy for Cause?
It's a written notice from your landlord explaining the reason (such as non-payment, damages, etc.).
Do I need renter’s insurance to move in?
Not by law, but your landlord can require it in your lease.
Can I get my deposit back if I move out before the lease starts?
Not usually, unless the landlord re-rents quickly or agrees to refund.
What if my landlord won’t sign the inspection report?
Note the refusal on the form and keep a copy. This helps if you dispute deposit deductions.
Does the landlord have to make repairs before I move in?
Yes, the unit must be habitable and comply with health and safety laws.
Do I pay rent if my move-in date is delayed?
No, you only pay from the actual day you take possession.
Can I change the locks when moving in or out?
Not without landlord’s written permission.
What happens if my landlord sells while I’m moving out?
Your rights continue until your tenancy ends; new owners must honour your tenancy.

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

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