When Is a Rent Increase Legal in Saskatchewan?

If you rent a home or apartment in Saskatchewan, you might worry about unexpected rent increases. It’s important to know the rules and process around legal rent increases, so you can plan your budget and respond promptly. This guide explains Saskatchewan’s rent increase laws, notice requirements, your rights as a tenant, and helpful steps to take if you receive a rent increase notice. All information reflects the latest regulations set by Saskatchewan’s Office of Residential Tenancies and the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006¹.

Who Regulates Rent Increases in Saskatchewan?

Residential tenancies in Saskatchewan are regulated by the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT). They handle rent disputes, landlord-tenant complaints, and enforcement of the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.

When Can a Landlord Increase Your Rent?

In Saskatchewan, a landlord can only increase rent when certain conditions and notice requirements are met. Key eligibility rules include:

• Timing: Rent increases are only allowed after at least 12 months have passed since your tenancy started or since your last rent increase.
• Notice: Landlords must provide written notice in advance.
• Frequency: Only once every 12 months.
• Form and Content: Notices must follow legal regulations. More on forms below.

If your home is subject to rent control (generally for units in buildings with six or more units, not previously exempted), the process may differ. For most privately-owned homes and many apartments, there are no limits on the amount of a rent increase—but all other regulations must still be followed.

Notice Period for Rent Increases

The landlord must deliver written notice:

• 12 months after you began your tenancy, or since your last increase
• At least 2 months’ written notice for month-to-month tenancies
• At least 6 months’ notice for year-to-year or longer fixed-term leases

These timelines ensure tenants have enough warning to adjust their budgets or find alternate housing options.

What Must Be in the Rent Increase Notice?

• The amount of the new rent
• The date the increased rent will start
• Signature of the landlord or agent
• The date the notice is given

Verbal notices are not valid—always require written documentation for your records.

Required Forms: Giving and Receiving Notices

• Notice of Rent Increase (Form 7A): This is the official form landlords should use to notify tenants of a rent increase in most cases. Download the Notice of Rent Increase (Form 7A).

Example: If your landlord wants to raise the rent from $1,000 to $1,050 per month, they must give you the official Notice of Rent Increase (Form 7A) at least 2 months before the increase takes effect, documenting the new amount and start date.

If you believe the notice is invalid, or you have less notice than required, you may file a dispute with the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) using their forms and process.

Exceptions and Special Situations

• Fixed-term leases: Rent cannot be increased during the fixed period unless specifically stated in your lease agreement.
• Subsidized/social housing: May have different rules—ask for details if you receive government assistance.
• Renovations or repairs: A landlord cannot raise rent solely to recover costs unless permitted in your lease.

If you’re signing a new lease or moving into a new unit, rent is negotiated at that stage. For information about paying, deposits, and the moving-in process, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

What to Do If You Disagree with a Rent Increase

• Review the notice for correct form, amount, and timelines
• Talk to your landlord to clarify concerns
• File a dispute with the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) if the law was not followed. Learn more: Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know.

The ORT can investigate and issue a decision. In the meantime, keep records of all communication and never withhold rent unless instructed in writing by the tribunal.

Summary of Your Rights and Responsibilities

• You must receive proper notice before any rent increase
• Always get all rent increases in writing
• If in doubt, seek clarification from the ORT or tenant advisers
• Stay up to date on the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan

You may also want to review Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips for details on your obligations after a rent increase takes effect.

Need a new place? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme and make your next move stress-free.

FAQs about Rent Increases in Saskatchewan

1. How much can my landlord increase the rent in Saskatchewan?
   In most Saskatchewan rentals, there is no limit on the percentage or dollar amount of a rent increase, but landlords must follow notice and timing rules.
2. How much notice does my landlord have to give before raising my rent?
   Two months for a month-to-month tenancy, and six months for a year-to-year (fixed term) tenancy.
3. What can I do if I think my rent increase is unfair or not legal?
   You can file a dispute with the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) if the proper process was not followed, or the notice is not valid.
4. Can my landlord raise the rent during my fixed-term lease?
   No, unless your lease agreement specifically allows for an increase during the term.
5. Does my landlord have to use a special form to notify me of a rent increase?
   Yes, typically the Notice of Rent Increase (Form 7A) is required. Always request official written notice.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tenants

• A rent increase is only legal in Saskatchewan with proper notice and after 12 months of tenancy or since the last increase.
• Always insist on written notice—verbal agreements are not enough.
• If rules are not followed or the notice is improper, file a dispute through the Office of Residential Tenancies.

Understanding your rights will help you respond confidently to rent changes and avoid surprises.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) – rent disputes, forms, and landlord-tenant information
• Saskatchewan Tenant Hotline: 1-888-215-2222
• Saskatchewan Legal Aid: https://www.legalaid.sk.ca
• View full details of Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan
• For moving or new rentals: Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan) – Official PDF
2. Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) – Saskatchewan Government
3. Notice of Rent Increase (Form 7A) – Official Form

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