Top 50 Questions: Tenant Insurance & Liability in Saskatchewan

Tenant Insurance & Liability Saskatchewan published June 26, 2025 Flag of Saskatchewan
Is tenant insurance required by law in Saskatchewan?
No, tenant insurance is not required by law, but landlords can require it in your lease agreement.
Can my landlord force me to buy tenant insurance?
A landlord can require tenant insurance as a condition of your lease, but not as a legal obligation unless specified in your rental agreement.
What does tenant insurance cover in Saskatchewan?
Tenant insurance typically covers your belongings, personal liability, and additional living expenses if you can't stay in your unit after a covered event.
What does tenant liability mean?
Tenant liability means you could be held financially responsible if you accidentally damage the property or harm someone in your unit.
Who is responsible if my personal belongings are stolen or damaged?
You are usually responsible unless the landlord was negligent. Tenant insurance may cover stolen or damaged items.
Does my landlord's insurance cover my belongings?
No. The landlord’s insurance covers the building and their property only, not tenants’ belongings.
If I accidentally cause a fire, am I liable for damages?
Yes, you could be liable for damages to the building and other units. Tenant liability insurance can protect you in such cases.
Is tenant insurance expensive?
Costs vary, but basic coverage in Saskatchewan often ranges from $15 to $30 per month.
Where can I get tenant insurance?
You can purchase tenant insurance from most insurance companies or brokers in Saskatchewan.
Do I need tenant insurance if I live in a basement suite?
Yes, tenant insurance is advised for all renters to protect belongings and personal liability, regardless of the type of unit.
What happens if my guest causes damage?
You can be held responsible for any damage caused by your guests; tenant liability insurance may cover this.
Can I be evicted for not having tenant insurance if my lease requires it?
Yes, a landlord may issue a notice to end the tenancy if you violate lease terms requiring insurance.
Is flooding or water damage covered by tenant insurance?
It depends on the policy. Not all insurance covers flooding. Check your policy details with your insurer.
Can I choose any insurance company I like?
Yes, you can choose any licensed insurance provider in Saskatchewan.
What happens if I don't have tenant insurance and cause a major accident?
You may be personally responsible for all repair and liability costs, which can be significant.
Are roommates covered by my tenant insurance?
Usually no, unless you add them to your policy. Each tenant should have their own insurance.
Are pets covered under my tenant insurance?
Your insurance may cover liability for pet-related incidents, but not all policies include this. Check with your insurer.
If my building has a sprinkler problem that damages my stuff, who pays?
Unless the landlord was negligent, your own insurance would cover your belongings, not the landlord's insurance.
What if another tenant in my building causes damage to my unit?
You may be able to claim through your insurance or seek compensation from the responsible party, possibly via the landlord or tribunal.
How do I prove to my landlord that I have tenant insurance?
Provide your landlord with a copy of your insurance certificate or letter from your insurer.
My landlord wants to see my policy details. Is that allowed?
Your landlord can request proof of coverage, but not all policy details. Only basic confirmation is normally required.
Do I need to tell my insurance company if I move?
Yes, always update your insurer with your new address so your coverage is valid.
I rent a furnished unit. Does tenant insurance cover the landlord's furniture?
No, your insurance covers your property, not furnished items supplied by the landlord.
Can my landlord be held responsible for damages if the building is unsafe?
Yes, if the landlord was negligent in maintaining a safe property, they may be responsible for some damages.
Am I responsible if plumbing leaks and damages my stuff?
You are usually not responsible unless the leak was your fault; your tenant insurance may cover your belongings.
Can my insurance be cancelled if I make a claim?
Claims may affect your premiums or eligibility, but cancellation depends on your insurer’s policies.
Does tenant insurance cover theft from my car?
Generally, theft from your vehicle is covered under car insurance, not tenant insurance.
Am I liable if my pet injures someone on the property?
Yes, you may be legally responsible. Liability coverage in tenant insurance can help in these situations.
What amount of coverage should I get?
Choose coverage based on the value of your belongings and potential liability risks. Discuss with your insurer.
Is mold damage covered by tenant insurance?
Often, mold is not covered except in specific circumstances. Review your policy or ask your insurer.
Can a landlord deduct the cost of damages from my security deposit?
Yes, if you cause damage beyond normal wear and tear, your landlord may deduct repair costs from your deposit.
How do I file a tenant insurance claim?
Contact your insurer as soon as possible, provide details, proof of damage/loss, and follow their process.
What if my landlord’s insurance company contacts me after a loss?
Respond honestly, but you can seek legal advice or contact your own insurer if unsure.
Can a landlord increase rent if I get tenant insurance?
No, tenant insurance does not affect legal rent increases, which must follow rules under the Residential Tenancies Act.
Does my policy cover roommates who move in after I sign?
No, new roommates need their own coverage unless added to your policy with insurer approval.
Does tenant insurance cover accidental breakage like windows?
Personal liability coverage may apply if you cause the damage; check your policy or ask your insurer.
Is proof of insurance needed for lease renewal?
If required by your lease, your landlord may ask for current proof at renewal.
What if my landlord claims I damaged the unit but I disagree?
Gather evidence and contact the Office of Residential Tenancies (official link) for dispute resolution.
What happens if I cause damage after my insurance expires?
You would be personally responsible for all repair and liability costs if you don’t have insurance at the time of loss.
Can I make a claim if my things are damaged by an electrical surge?
Some policies cover electrical surges; check with your insurer about your specific coverage.
Does tenant insurance cover bedbugs or pests?
Most policies do not cover damage from pests like bedbugs. Check your policy for exclusions.
What tenancy laws handle insurance and liability in Saskatchewan?
The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 governs most rental matters in Saskatchewan.
What tribunal handles disputes about rental issues?
The Office of Residential Tenancies hears tenant-landlord disputes in Saskatchewan.
If my landlord asks for insurance, do I have to use a specific form?
No specific government form exists; provide your insurance certificate or letter from your insurer as proof.
What official form do I use to dispute deductions for damages?
Use the Application for Hearing (Form 6) (official link) to dispute deductions with the Office of Residential Tenancies.
How do I use the Application for Hearing (Form 6) for insurance disputes?
File Form 6 if you wish to dispute landlord claims or deductions about damages or liability. Submit to the Office of Residential Tenancies (official forms).
Do I need to pay to file an Application for Hearing (Form 6)?
Yes, a fee applies. Check the most current amounts on the Office of Residential Tenancies website.
Will tenant insurance cover me if I sublet my unit?
Not always. Notify your insurer before subletting; a separate policy may be needed.
Can I end my lease if my unit is uninhabitable and I'm not insured?
Yes, you may have rights under the Residential Tenancies Act if your unit becomes uninhabitable, with or without insurance.
Where can I get help if I can't afford tenant insurance?
Some insurers offer flexible payment plans; local community legal clinics or agencies may give advice.

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy
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.

Related Articles