Top 50 Questions on Landlord Compliance & Penalties in Saskatchewan

Landlord Compliance & Penalties Saskatchewan published June 26, 2025 Flag of Saskatchewan
Who enforces landlord compliance in Saskatchewan?
The Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) handles enforcement. Visit ORT
What law covers landlord and tenant rights in Saskatchewan?
The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 governs rental rights and obligations.
What happens if a landlord does not make repairs?
You can file an application with the ORT to order repairs or compensation.
How do I file a complaint against my landlord?
Submit Form 7: Application for Hearing with the ORT. Get Form 7
Can my landlord be penalized for breaking the law?
Yes, landlords can face orders, fines, or be required to pay compensation.
What types of violations can landlords be penalized for?
Violations include illegal entry, failing to repair, unlawful eviction, or not returning deposits.
How much are landlord fines in Saskatchewan?
Fines vary; the ORT may order payments up to $30,000 for breaches.
What if my landlord enters without notice?
You can apply to the ORT for a remedy or an order against the landlord.
Does my landlord have to give written notice to enter?
Yes, 24 hours written notice is required except in emergencies.
What if my landlord turns off utilities?
It is illegal; report it to the ORT and apply for an order or compensation.
Who do I call for emergency repairs?
Contact your landlord first, then the ORT if not resolved quickly.
Can I stop paying rent if repairs aren't done?
No, keep paying and file an application with the ORT for repairs or compensation.
How do I request repairs in writing?
Give your landlord a dated letter; keep a copy for your records.
What can I do if my landlord won’t return my damage deposit?
File Form 7 with the ORT to claim your deposit back. See Form 7
Are there time limits for landlords to fix issues?
Repairs should be made within a reasonable time, depending on the severity.
Can I report my landlord anonymously?
Complaints need your information, but the ORT keeps hearings confidential.
What evidence do I need to file a complaint?
Gather photos, written requests, and any correspondence as evidence.
Can a landlord retaliate if I complain?
Retaliation is prohibited by law; report any such actions to the ORT.
Will I have to go to a hearing?
Possibly, if the matter can’t be resolved informally; hearings can be virtual or in person.
Are hearings free?
There are modest fees for some applications, but fee waivers may be possible for low income tenants.
How quickly does the ORT act on complaints?
Processing times vary, but urgent issues get priority handling.
Can I get compensation for landlord non-compliance?
Yes, if the ORT finds the landlord breached the Act, you may be awarded compensation.
What if my landlord refuses to cooperate with an ORT order?
You may enforce the decision through court, with guidance from the ORT.
How do I prove a landlord’s non-compliance?
Provide documentation, witness statements, and all related evidence.
Are verbal repair requests enough?
Written requests are always better for proof and protection.
How much notice before rent increases?
Landlords must give 2 months’ written notice for rent increases.
What if my landlord raises rent illegally?
File a complaint with the ORT. The rent increase may be reversed.
Can landlords lock out tenants for unpaid rent?
No. They must follow legal eviction procedures through the ORT.
Can my landlord evict me without cause?
Landlords must follow strict rules; they cannot evict without valid reasons under the Act.
How do I know if a notice is legal?
It should be in writing, state reasons, and include required notice periods as per the Act.
What is the penalty for illegal eviction?
The ORT may order the landlord to pay damages or reinstate your tenancy.
How does the ORT decide penalties?
The ORT reviews evidence and applies penalties based on the law and each case’s facts.
Can I get my rent reduced for poor living conditions?
You can apply to the ORT for a rent abatement if the landlord fails to maintain the property.
Can landlords be criminally charged for violations?
Most breaches are civil, but serious misconduct could result in criminal charges by police.
What happens to landlords with repeat offences?
Repeat violations can lead to higher penalties and stricter enforcement.
What forms do I need for compliance issues?
Use Form 7: Application for Hearing for most compliance complaints. Download Form 7
Do I need a lawyer for a hearing?
Legal representation is optional; you may represent yourself at the ORT.
Can I settle with my landlord before a hearing?
Yes, and you can inform the ORT if you resolve the issue before your hearing date.
Does the ORT offer mediation?
They may assist with dispute resolution, but formal mediation is not always available.
Will filing a complaint affect my tenancy?
Landlords cannot evict you or raise rent in retaliation for complaints.
How do I appeal an ORT decision?
File a Notice of Appeal to the Court of King’s Bench within 30 days.
Can the ORT help with harassment by my landlord?
Yes, harassment is a breach; you may seek orders through the ORT.
Can I get help with filing forms?
The ORT and local tenant resources may help explain forms and the process.
Can my landlord be held responsible for other tenants’ actions?
Only if the landlord fails to address breaches that affect your right to quiet enjoyment.
How do I serve documents to my landlord?
Serve documents in person, by mail, or post on the door if personal service is impossible.
What is the limitation period for filing a complaint?
File within 2 years of becoming aware of the landlord’s breach.
Can I withdraw my application to the ORT?
Yes, notify the ORT in writing if you wish to withdraw your application.
What support is available for tenants with disabilities?
The ORT and community resources offer accessibility supports for hearings if needed.
Can I file a group complaint with other tenants?
Yes, multiple tenants can apply together if facing the same compliance issue.
What are my landlord's obligations for pest control?
Landlords must maintain the premises, including pest control, under the Act.
How are penalties collected from landlords?
The ORT’s orders can be enforced in court if the landlord does not pay voluntarily.
Are landlord penalties public record?
ORT decisions are published online but may limit personal details.

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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 tenants everywhere.

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