What If You Can't Pay the New Rent in Saskatchewan?

If you’re a tenant in Saskatchewan and your landlord has raised your rent, you may be wondering what happens if you can’t—or don’t—pay the new amount. Understanding your rights and obligations is crucial to maintaining stable housing and avoiding disputes or eviction.

How Rent Increases Work in Saskatchewan

Landlords in Saskatchewan can only increase rent if proper notice is given and the increase complies with the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006^[1]. Typically, they must provide written notice at least two months before the increase takes effect. The notice must clearly state:

• The amount of the new rent
• When the new rent will start
• The address of the rental unit

If you’re unsure about your rights after receiving a rent increase, review the Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know for more details.

What Happens If You Don’t Pay the New Rent?

Once the new rent amount is in effect, not paying the full amount is considered missing a rent payment. This can have serious consequences under Saskatchewan’s rental laws.

Possible Outcomes

• Late Fees: Some landlords may charge a late fee, but this must be outlined in your rental agreement and conform to the law.
• Notice of Eviction: If you don’t pay the full new rent, your landlord can issue a Notice of Eviction for non-payment.
• Application to the Tribunal: The landlord can apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) for an order of possession to evict you.

Missing even one rent payment can put your tenancy at risk. If you’re unable to afford the new rent, don’t ignore the problem—communicate with your landlord and seek help early.

Responding to an Eviction Notice

If you receive an eviction notice for not paying the increased rent, you have legal rights. You do not have to leave immediately. Here’s what usually happens:

• Notice of Eviction: Usually gives 14 days’ notice before you must move out.
• You Can Pay the Owed Rent: Paying all outstanding rent (old and new) may cancel the eviction, depending on timing.
• Dispute the Notice: If you believe the rent increase wasn’t allowed or the notice wasn’t served properly, you can apply to the ORT to dispute the eviction.

How to Challenge a Rent Increase or Eviction

The Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) handles all disputes between tenants and landlords in Saskatchewan. If you think your landlord has not followed the rules for rent increases or eviction, you can file a formal application.

• Form S1 – Application by Tenant (General): Use this to dispute the validity of your eviction or the rent increase.
  Download Form S1 (Tenant Application – General)
  Example: If you receive an eviction notice after refusing to pay a rent increase you believe is not legal, use Form S1 to ask the ORT to review your case.
• Form S6 – Application for Reduction of Rent: Submit this if you believe the rent increase is unfair or if services are reduced.
  Download Form S6 (Application for Rent Reduction)
  Example: If the landlord raises your rent but reduces building services, use Form S6.

Submit the completed form to the ORT with all supporting documents.

Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Tenant

It’s essential to understand both your obligations and the landlord’s duties. For a comprehensive overview, read Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Programs and Support if You Can’t Afford Rent

If you’re at risk of missing payments due to a rent increase, explore resources for financial assistance or affordable housing through the Government of Saskatchewan - Supports for Tenants.

What To Do If You Must Leave

If you decide you cannot afford to stay, learn how to end your tenancy correctly and avoid penalties. For guidance, see How to Properly End Your Rental Agreement as a Tenant.

For renters looking for alternatives in other cities or provinces, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for updated listings and housing options.

Learn more about your rights as a Saskatchewan tenant by visiting Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I refuse to pay a rent increase in Saskatchewan?
   If a legal rent increase is properly served and takes effect, you must pay the new amount. If you believe the increase breaks the rules, you can dispute it with the ORT without risk of immediate eviction, but you should keep paying the current rent while your case is decided.
2. How much notice must my landlord give for a rent increase?
   Landlords must provide at least two months’ written notice before the increase takes effect. Rent cannot go up more than once every 12 months for the same tenancy.
3. What happens if I pay only the old rent amount?
   Paying less than the new, legally increased rent is considered a partial payment. This can result in a notice of eviction for non-payment of rent.
4. Can I get help if I can't afford my new rent?
   Yes. Saskatchewan offers rent supplement and housing assistance programs. Contact the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation for more details or visit provincial support pages.
5. Who handles rental disputes in Saskatchewan?
   The Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) manages all formal disputes between tenants and landlords.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Failing to pay a legal rent increase is treated like missing regular rent and could lead to eviction.
• If you disagree with the increase, file a dispute through the ORT using the right form.
• Ask for help or try to negotiate with your landlord if you’re struggling financially.

Staying informed and communicating early can help prevent loss of your home.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) Saskatchewan: Tribunal for landlord-tenant disputes, online forms, and guidance
• Government of Saskatchewan: Housing and Renting Portal: Information on tenant supports, complaints, and rent supplements
• Supports for Saskatchewan Tenants: Directory of financial help and advocacy

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1. Saskatchewan. The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (PDF). Current as of 2024.
2. Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) Saskatchewan – official tribunal.
3. Government of Saskatchewan — Supports for Tenants.

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