Window Bars in Saskatchewan Rentals: Tenant Rights & Safety

Many tenants in Saskatchewan want to feel safe and secure in their rental homes. In some cases, landlords install window bars for added protection, especially on ground-floor apartments. But are window bars allowed in Saskatchewan rentals? And if so, what are the rules to keep everyone safe?

Understanding Window Bars in Saskatchewan Rentals

Window bars can provide extra security against break-ins, but they may also pose risks—especially if they block escape routes during a fire or emergency. Tenants and landlords need to balance security with health and safety requirements under Saskatchewan law.

Provincial Regulations: Safety vs. Security

• The Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) oversees rental matters in Saskatchewan.
• The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 ^[1] and the National Fire Code (as adopted by Saskatchewan) apply to window bars and emergency egress.

By law, all sleeping rooms—like bedrooms—must have at least one window that can be easily used as an exit in an emergency. If window bars are installed, they must be able to be opened from the inside without a key, tool, or special knowledge. Fixed (permanent) bars that can't be opened from inside are not allowed on these windows.

When Are Window Bars Legal?

Landlords in Saskatchewan can install window bars, but only if they meet specific requirements. Bars must not block tenants from leaving during a fire or other emergency. This is both a building code and safety issue, as well as a rental law matter.

• Bars must be openable from inside, without keys or special tools, on any window that may be used as an emergency exit.
• Bases for window bars should not obstruct fire escape routes.

If your rental unit has window bars that do not meet these criteria, you have the right to raise the issue with your landlord or with the local fire department.

Tenant Rights and Landlord Responsibilities

Tenants have a right to live in a safe, healthy environment. Landlords are responsible for ensuring that the property meets safety codes, including correct installation of window bars if they are present.

• Landlords cannot install bars that block proper emergency exits.
• Tenants should not remove window bars without consulting the landlord, but must report safety concerns quickly.

For a deeper look at your rights and your landlord's obligations, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

If you're moving into a new place and notice window bars, check their condition and ensure they can be easily opened from inside. You might find helpful information in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Forms and What to Do If There's a Problem

If you have raised a concern and your landlord does not respond, you can apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT). The form to start a claim is the Application for Hearing (Form O1). Use this if your landlord refuses to address life safety concerns, such as improper window bars.

• Form Name: Application for Hearing (Form O1)
• When to use: If your landlord does not fix safety issues after being notified.
• How it works: Complete the form, describe the problem, and submit it to the ORT. They will schedule a hearing.
• Official Application for Hearing Form O1

Relevant Laws & More Resources

• Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (full text)
• National Fire Code of Canada
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan
• Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme

Frequently Asked Questions About Window Bars in Saskatchewan Rentals

1. Can my landlord put bars on my windows in Saskatchewan?
   Yes, but only if the bars do not block emergency exits. Window bars must be openable from inside without a key or tools if the window is needed for emergency escape.
2. What should I do if window bars are permanently fixed and block a bedroom window?
   Document the issue, notify your landlord in writing, and if not fixed, contact your local fire department or file a claim with the Office of Residential Tenancies.
3. Are there specific laws about window bars in Saskatchewan?
   Yes. The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 requires landlords to maintain safe living conditions and comply with building/fire codes.
4. Who can I contact if I feel unsafe because of window bars?
   If your landlord does not address the issue, contact the Office of Residential Tenancies for advice and next steps.
5. Can I remove window bars myself if they are a hazard?
   Do not remove them yourself. Document the problem and contact your landlord or the appropriate authorities for proper resolution.

Key Takeaways for Saskatchewan Tenants

• Window bars are legal only if they do not block emergency exits and comply with fire codes.
• If you believe window bars put your safety at risk, contact your landlord in writing and seek help from the ORT if needed.
• Your right to safe housing is protected under Saskatchewan's Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.

Make sure you understand both your rights and your responsibilities to help keep your home safe.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) – Inquiries, complaint process, claim forms
• Your Local Fire Department – Fire code questions, inspections
• Tenant Advocacy Groups and Legal Aid Saskatchewan
• For more on rental rights in your province, read Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Saskatchewan.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 (Saskatchewan)
2. National Fire Code of Canada
3. Office of Residential Tenancies

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