Discrimination based on age or sexual orientation can affect Yukon renters when applying for a home, signing a lease, or during tenancy. This article explains what protections exist under Yukon human rights and tenancy rules, how to spot unlawful behaviour by landlords or agents, and practical steps tenants can take to document incidents, seek help, and file complaints. We cover the types of actions that may be discriminatory, what evidence to gather, timelines for filing, and the official forms and bodies that handle complaints in Yukon. The guidance is written for tenants and renters who want clear, practical information about protecting their rights and resolving disputes without assuming legal expertise.
What the law protects
Both Yukon human rights law and residential tenancy rules prohibit discrimination on protected grounds including age and sexual orientation. If you believe you faced different treatment when applying, during lease negotiations, or while living in a rental because of your age or sexual orientation, you may have options to respond. For information on human rights complaints and procedures see the Yukon Human Rights Commission.[1] For tenancy matters and the official residential tenancies contact, see Yukon government tenancy resources.[2] You can also review the Yukon human rights legislation that explains prohibited grounds and remedies.[3]
Examples of unlawful behaviour
- Refusing to rent to someone because of their age.
- Charging higher rent or extra fees tied to a tenant's sexual orientation.
- Including lease terms that single out tenants or their guests based on age or sexual orientation.
- Harassment, discriminatory remarks, or threats linked to a protected characteristic.
What tenants can do
If you face discrimination, act methodically: gather evidence, try to resolve the issue directly if safe to do so, and know how to file an official complaint. The Yukon Human Rights Commission accepts complaints about prohibited discrimination and will explain next steps and forms required.[1] For urgent tenancy problems such as unlawful eviction threats or rent disputes, contact the Yukon residential tenancies resources to learn about applications and hearings.[2] Review the human rights legislation to understand possible remedies and timelines.[3]
- Gather evidence: keep emails, text messages, photos, and a dated log of incidents and witnesses.
- Send a clear written request to your landlord describing the conduct and asking for it to stop, and keep a copy.
- Check filing deadlines and act promptly to preserve your right to complain or seek remedies.
- Contact local tenant help services or legal clinics for free or low-cost guidance before applying to a tribunal.
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Key Takeaways
- Age and sexual orientation are protected in Yukon and discrimination can be challenged.
- Keep dated records and copies of all communications to support any complaint.
- Use official complaint forms and follow timelines to preserve your rights.
FAQ
- Can my landlord refuse to rent to me because of my age?
- No. Refusing to rent based on age is discriminatory in Yukon and you can seek help from the human rights body or tenancy resources.
- Is it discrimination if a landlord asks intrusive questions about my sexual life?
- Yes. Intrusive questioning tied to sexual orientation or conduct that creates a hostile environment can be discrimination and should be documented.
- What if my landlord says they have a "no seniors" or "no LGBTQ" policy?
- Policies that exclude people by age or sexual orientation are likely unlawful and you should report them to the Yukon Human Rights Commission and consider tenancy remedies if a lease or access is affected.
How-To
- Gather evidence and write a dated log describing what happened and who was present.
- Complete and submit the Yukon Human Rights complaint form or the residential tenancy application as appropriate.
- Attend any scheduled intake interviews or hearings and bring your copies of evidence and witnesses if possible.
Help and Support / Resources
- Yukon Human Rights Commission — complaints and information
- Yukon Residential Tenancies information and forms
