Top 50 Questions: Mental Health & Tenancy in Saskatchewan

Who handles tenancy and mental health issues in Saskatchewan?
The Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) handles tenancy matters. Learn more.
What law protects tenant rights in Saskatchewan?
The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, governs rental housing in Saskatchewan.
Can my landlord evict me because of my mental health condition?
No, discrimination based on mental health is prohibited under human rights law.
Are landlords required to accommodate mental health disabilities?
Yes, landlords must accommodate to the point of undue hardship under The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code.
What is an accommodation in rental housing?
It means reasonable changes to rules, policies, or the unit due to disability-related needs.
How do I request an accommodation for my mental health?
Ask your landlord in writing, explaining your needs related to your mental health. Supporting documents help.
What evidence or documents support accommodation requests?
A note from a health professional explaining your needs (without detailed diagnosis) can support your request.
Can my landlord ask for my diagnosis?
They may request confirmation of disability but cannot require your exact diagnosis.
What if my landlord refuses to accommodate me?
You can contact the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission or the ORT for help.
Can my tenancy be ended because I was hospitalized for a mental health reason?
No, time in the hospital alone is not grounds for eviction.
What forms do I use to apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies?
Use "Application for Hearing" Form 7 when you have a dispute, such as denial of accommodation. View Form 7.
How do I file Form 7 (Application for Hearing) at the ORT?
Fill out the form and submit by email, mail, fax, or in person to the ORT. Attach any evidence regarding your issue.
How much does it cost to file at the ORT?
The application fee is $50. Fee waivers may be available if you qualify for income assistance.
Can I ask for a reasonable change to my unit (like a quiet room) due to my mental health?
Yes, if medically necessary and reasonable, landlords must consider such requests.
Can my landlord discuss my mental health with other tenants?
No, your health information is private and protected under privacy laws.
Can I break my lease early due to mental health issues?
You may apply to the ORT to end your lease early for medical reasons. Evidence may be required.
What form do I use to ask to end my tenancy early for health reasons?
Use "Application for Hearing" Form 7 to apply for early termination. Form 7.
What evidence helps if I ask to end my lease early due to mental health?
A letter from a health care provider recommending moving is most helpful.
Can I be evicted for behavior related to my mental health?
Only if your behavior seriously affects others’ safety or property, and reasonable accommodation failed.
What if my landlord gives me a Notice of Eviction?
You have the right to respond or dispute the notice by filing at the ORT. Contact support as soon as possible.
How do I dispute an eviction at the ORT?
Submit a "Tenant Application Disputing Notice to Vacate" (Form 7). Hearings are usually quick.
Where can I find support for mental health and housing?
Contact the Saskatchewan Health Authority or call HealthLine 811 for resources and referrals.
Is my mental health considered a disability in housing law?
Yes, most mental health conditions are protected as disabilities under The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code.
What if my rent is late because of a mental health crisis?
Inform your landlord as soon as possible. While laws do not excuse late rent, landlords may accommodate in some circumstances.
Can I have a support animal in my rental due to mental health?
Yes, with appropriate medical documentation, support animals are allowed even in no-pet buildings.
Can my landlord charge me a fee for a support animal?
No, landlords cannot charge extra fees related to properly documented support animals.
Is there a form to ask for a support animal?
No special form is required, but a written request and a letter from a health professional are recommended.
Can I ask for repairs due to mental health needs?
Yes, if a repair is related to your well-being, ask your landlord in writing with supporting documentation.
How do I file a complaint against my landlord for discrimination?
File a complaint with the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission. Start here.
Can I get help filling out forms for tenancy issues?
Yes, contact the Office of Residential Tenancies or local legal aid for assistance.
Can my landlord require me to move because I need extra supports?
No, needing supports is not a valid reason for eviction if you can pay rent and follow rules.
What if I feel harassed due to my mental health status?
Harassment is illegal. Document incidents and report to your landlord, ORT, or Human Rights Commission as needed.
Are there housing subsidies for people with mental health challenges?
Some programs offer housing help. Contact the Ministry of Social Services or local agencies for options.
What do I do if my mental health affects my ability to clean or maintain my unit?
Inform your landlord if you need help. Community supports may be available to assist.
Can a roommate evict me because of my mental health?
Only the landlord can legally evict you, not a roommate. Contact the ORT if under threat.
Are emergency shelters available for people facing mental health and tenancy crises?
Yes, emergency shelters and crisis services exist. Call HealthLine 811 or local shelters.
Can my landlord ask for additional damage deposit due to my mental health?
No, only one damage deposit is allowed by law regardless of health status.
Can the ORT help if a landlord enters my unit without notice due to my health situation?
Yes, the ORT can handle breaches of privacy under tenancy law.
Can I bring a support person to my ORT hearing?
Yes, you may bring a friend, advocate, or support person to your hearing.
Does public housing have to accommodate my mental health?
Yes, all landlords, including public housing, must accommodate disabilities.
Is mental health considered when assessing an eviction?
Yes, the ORT considers mental health as part of the circumstances, especially for accommodation.
Can I refuse care workers my landlord wants to send for my support?
Yes, you decide whether to accept supportive care unless a court orders otherwise.
What is "undue hardship" for landlords under accommodation laws?
It means significant difficulty or expense. Most routine accommodations are not undue hardship.
Can I appeal an ORT decision if I disagree?
Yes, you can appeal to the Court of King’s Bench within 30 days of the ORT decision.
Is my tenancy secure while a complaint is being heard about discrimination?
Normally, your tenancy continues while complaints are under review.
Are there free legal services for tenants with mental health concerns?
Yes, Saskatchewan Legal Aid and community clinics may help eligible tenants.
How long does an accommodation request take to process?
There is no set time, but landlords should respond promptly. Delays should be explained.
Can I stay in my unit during renovations if I have mental health needs?
Landlords must give proper notice and accommodate where feasible, especially if disruptions worsen your health.
Can the ORT order my landlord to accommodate my mental health?
Yes, the ORT has authority to issue such orders as part of disputes.
Who can I talk to confidentially about mental health and rental problems?
You can contact HealthLine 811 or a mental health outreach worker for confidential advice.
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 tenants everywhere.