Top 50 Questions: Special Tenancy Situations in Saskatchewan

Special Tenancy Situations Saskatchewan published June 26, 2025 Flag of Saskatchewan
Who handles tenant-landlord disputes in Saskatchewan?
The Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) (official site) manages tenancy disputes.
What law covers rental housing in Saskatchewan?
The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (official legislation).
What is a special tenancy situation?
A situation that doesn't follow usual rental rules, like subletting, roommates, family violence, or unique lease terms.
Can I sublet my unit in Saskatchewan?
Yes, with your landlord’s written consent. They can't refuse unreasonably.
What form do I use to assign or sublet my place?
Use the "Tenant’s Request to Assign or Sublet" form. Give it to your landlord and keep a copy. View the official form.
What’s the difference between subletting and assigning a lease?
Subletting: You remain responsible for the lease. Assigning: The new tenant takes over your rights and responsibilities.
What notice is required to end a periodic tenancy?
You must give one full rental period’s written notice for most periodic tenancies.
What if I need to end my tenancy early due to family violence?
You can apply for a "Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Certificate" to end your tenancy early. Learn how here.
Can my landlord refuse a sublet?
No, unless they have a good reason like the new person isn’t suitable as a tenant.
How do I remove a roommate from the lease?
All tenants and the landlord must agree in writing to change the lease.
Do special rules apply for seniors or supported housing?
Some senior or supported housing has special program rules. Check your agreement and ask the landlord.
I’m a student—are there special rules for student housing?
Student housing often has unique rules. Ask your housing provider or campus authorities for details.
Who is responsible for repairs when subletting?
The original tenant remains responsible unless the landlord agrees otherwise in writing.
What if I rented from someone who isn’t the owner?
You still have tenant rights, but issues might arise—contact the ORT if problems occur.
How do I prove I have the right to occupy my rental?
Show your written lease or rent receipts. If uncertain, contact the ORT.
Can a landlord end my lease if I get married?
No, marriage alone is not a valid reason to end a tenancy.
What if my co-tenant abandons the unit?
You are responsible for the full rent unless the lease is changed with the landlord’s agreement.
Can I add a new roommate?
Only with your landlord's written approval, unless your lease says otherwise.
How do I transfer my lease to someone else?
Use the "Tenant’s Request to Assign or Sublet" form, and follow the official process. View form.
My landlord sold the property. Do I have to move?
No. The lease continues under the new owner on the same terms and conditions.
I am separated or divorced. Can my ex remove me from the lease?
No. Both names remain unless all parties and the landlord agree in writing.
What happens if my landlord dies?
The lease continues with the landlord's estate or new owner.
My place is uninhabitable due to disaster. What can I do?
Contact the ORT for guidance. You may apply to end your tenancy if repairs are not done promptly.
What if the tenant passes away during the tenancy?
The estate or next of kin must give proper notice to the landlord to end the tenancy.
Can a landlord require extra deposits in special cases?
Only those allowed by law—security deposits cannot exceed one month’s rent.
What are my rights in transitional or second-stage housing?
You usually have tenancy rights, but special program rules may also apply. Clarify with your provider.
Can I be evicted for having guests or additional occupants?
Not unless it breaks the lease, causes problems, or exceeds allowable occupant limits.
How do I respond to an eviction notice in a special situation?
File a dispute with the ORT quickly using their application forms. Get help right away.
Do I sign a new lease when an assignment is approved?
Yes, the new tenant will typically sign a new lease or an addendum with the landlord.
My rental unit is government-subsidized. Are there special rules?
Yes. Subsidized housing may have more requirements—contact your program administrator or the ORT for help.
Can I break my lease if I'm accepted to a long-term care home?
You may be able to end your lease early by giving written notice and supporting documentation. Discuss with your landlord.
Do group home or assisted living tenants have different rights?
Some group homes fall outside the Act—ask your program provider or the ORT to confirm your rights.
Can a landlord refuse to rent because of pets in special housing?
Landlords can set pet rules, except in cases where service animals are protected by law.
What happens if the rental becomes unsafe or unhealthy?
You can ask the ORT to end your tenancy early or order repairs if your place is not fit to live in.
Can my rent increase during a special tenancy?
Rent increases must follow the law, with written notice at least two months before the increase.
Are short-term rentals (like Airbnb) covered?
If you rent for more than a month and have exclusive possession, you may have rights under the Act.
Do refugees or newcomers have special tenancy rights?
They have the same tenancy rights as any other tenant in Saskatchewan under the Act.
Can I terminate my lease if I join the military?
Special termination rights may apply. Seek advice from the ORT and provide notice with documentation.
If a tenant is under 18, can they sign a lease?
Yes, minors can legally sign rental agreements in Saskatchewan.
Can the landlord change the lease after assignment or sublet?
Not unless everyone agrees in writing.
What if the landlord refuses to return my security deposit in special circumstances?
Apply to the ORT for a hearing to recover your deposit if you disagree with deductions.
Can I get legal help for issues with sublets or assignments?
Yes. Contact Legal Aid Saskatchewan or the ORT for advice.
Is eviction faster or different for special situations?
Some circumstances, like violence, may allow for quicker termination, but you still have the right to a hearing at the ORT.
Do my rights change if my rental is part of my job?
Additional rules may apply. Review your lease and talk to the ORT for details.
Can a landlord limit visitors in special housing?
Limits must be reasonable. Rules should be in your tenancy agreement.
Can a landlord change the locks in a special situation?
Not without your permission or an ORT order, except for urgent repairs or safety.
Is insurance required for special tenancy arrangements?
Insurance is not required by law, but is strongly recommended.
Can a landlord refuse service animals in special tenancies?
No. Service animals are allowed under human rights laws.
My landlord wants to move a relative in. Do I have to leave?
Only if proper notice is given and all rules are followed. Contact the ORT for help.
What if my subsidized rent changes due to my income?
Non-profit and government housing may adjust rents; your tenancy role continues.
Can a co-tenant sue me for unpaid rent?
Possibly, if you had a private agreement. The landlord can seek full rent from any tenant on the lease.
How do I dispute a landlord's refusal to consent to an assignment or sublet?
You may apply to the ORT for a decision. The landlord must have reasonable grounds to refuse.

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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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