What To Do If a Landlord Illegally Shuts Off Heat or Water in Saskatchewan

If your landlord has illegally turned off your heat or water in Saskatchewan, you’re facing an urgent issue that affects your health, safety, and comfort—especially during harsh Canadian winters. The law protects tenants from such actions, and there are clear steps you can take right away. This guide explains your rights, how to address utility shut-offs, and where to seek help.

Your Right to Essential Services

Under Saskatchewan's Residential Tenancies Act, tenants have the right to basic services, including heat and water. A landlord cannot withhold, shut off, or interfere with the supply of essential utilities—even if there are disputes about rent or behaviour.^[1]

• Heat and hot or cold water must be provided at all times unless your rental agreement says you pay the utility provider directly.
• If utilities are included in your rent or the lease states the landlord is responsible, they cannot stop or disrupt these services except for brief repairs.

Steps to Take if Heat or Water Is Shut Off

• Document the situation: Take photos, note times, and keep records of any conversations with your landlord.
• Contact your landlord: Inform them in writing (email or text is best) that the service is off and request immediate restoration.
• If the landlord does not fix the problem, proceed with a formal complaint.

Filing a Complaint: The Role of the Office of Residential Tenancies

The Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) is Saskatchewan’s tribunal that handles all landlord-tenant disputes, including illegal shut-off of utilities.

• Use ORT Form 6 ("Application for Claim by Tenant against Landlord") to start your complaint.
• Download Form 6 (PDF)
• Example: A tenant finds their heat shut off in January. They fill out Form 6, explain the situation, and submit supporting evidence such as photos and messages.
• Submit your completed application and evidence to the ORT online, by mail, or in person. Details are on the ORT website.

If you are concerned about health and safety, contact your local public health office as well.

Legal Protections and Outcomes

The Residential Tenancies Act specifically prohibits landlords from interrupting the supply of heat, water, electricity, or gas. Tenants may seek:

• Immediate restoration of the shut-off service
• Compensation for damages (e.g., hotel costs if you had to leave, or spoiled food)
• Orders to the landlord to comply with the law

This issue often ties into broader Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting. If you're facing additional unit problems, broader tenant issues may also apply.

You can learn more about Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan, including protections concerning utilities, deposits, and repairs.

For those searching for a better living situation, try Browse apartments for rent in Canada for secure, up-to-date listings across the country.

FAQs About Utility Shut-Offs in Saskatchewan Rentals

1. Can my landlord ever turn off my utilities?
   No, except for brief repairs or if you agreed in the lease to pay a utility company directly. They cannot disconnect utilities to force you out or as punishment.
2. What if the bill is unpaid but utilities are included in rent?
   The landlord is responsible if your lease includes utilities. It's illegal for them to allow shut-off or disrupt service.
3. How fast will the tribunal restore services?
   The ORT can expedite cases involving health and safety risks and may issue urgent orders.
4. Can I claim for costs if I had to leave my home?
   Yes, the tribunal can order the landlord to compensate for out-of-pocket costs caused by the illegal shut-off.
5. Who do I contact in an emergency?
   If it’s a severe health hazard (e.g., winter without heat), contact your city’s public health office or local authorities immediately, in addition to starting a tribunal claim.

Key Takeaways for Saskatchewan Tenants

• Landlords in Saskatchewan cannot legally shut off your heat or water if the lease requires them to provide these services.
• Act quickly: document the problem, notify your landlord, and apply to the ORT for an order if the issue isn’t fixed.
• Compensation and urgent restoration are possible through official channels.

Stay proactive—knowing your rights and taking action protects your comfort and safety at home.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) – File complaints and get forms
• Residential Tenancies in Saskatchewan – Government Guide
• Saskatoon Renters of Saskatchewan – local advocacy and referrals
• For detailed tenant rights, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, Saskatchewan: Read the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (PDF)
2. Government of Saskatchewan: Landlord and Tenant Rights and Responsibilities
3. Office of Residential Tenancies: Official ORT Website

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