Are Key Deposits Allowed for Yukon Rentals? Tenant Guide

If you're renting in Yukon, you may be asked by your landlord to pay a deposit for your keys or access cards. Questions often arise: Is a key deposit legal? How much can be charged? What happens at move-out? Let’s look at what tenants in Yukon need to know about key deposits, using up-to-date guidance from official territorial rental laws.

Understanding Key Deposits and Yukon Law

A key deposit is a fee a landlord might ask for to cover the replacement cost if a tenant loses keys or access devices. In Yukon, the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon) governs deposits and fees for residential tenancies.[1]

Key takeaways:

  • Landlords in Yukon can request a key deposit, but only under strict conditions.
  • The deposit amount must be reasonable and is only to cover actual replacement costs.
  • Key deposits are not the same as a security deposit and have separate rules.

What Is Considered a Key Deposit?

Key deposits (sometimes called "replacement deposits") cover the cost to replace lost keys or access cards. Landlords cannot use a key deposit for regular damages or cleaning—it's strictly for replacement if keys are not returned.

Limits on Charges for Deposits

Under Yukon law, landlords can charge:

  • A security deposit (up to one month's rent)
  • A pet damage deposit (if applicable and allowed)
  • A refundable key deposit

Key deposits must reflect the actual value of the key or device. If you return all keys when you move out, you should get the full key deposit back.

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Refunding Your Key Deposit at the End of Tenancy

At the end of your lease or rental period, you should return all keys to the landlord. If no keys are missing or damaged, your deposit must be refunded promptly.

Always request a written receipt when handing over your keys to help ensure your deposit is returned without delay.

This process is separate from getting back your security deposit, which may include deductions for damage or unpaid rent. Learn more by reading How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

What Can (and Can't) Be Deducted From a Key Deposit?

  • Deducted: Replacement cost of lost or unreturned keys and devices
  • Not deducted: General cleaning, repairs to the rental unit, or unpaid rent

If a landlord withholds your deposit for other reasons, you have a right to dispute this.

How to Dispute Unreturned Deposits or Unreasonable Charges

If you believe a landlord is wrongly withholding a key deposit, contact Yukon’s Residential Tenancies Office. This office handles tenant-landlord disputes and can mediate or adjudicate disagreements.

Forms for Tenants in Yukon

Example: If you move out, return your keys, but don't receive your deposit back, you can fill out the Dispute Resolution Form and submit it to the Residential Tenancies Office. Attach any relevant documentation (receipts, messages, inspection forms) to support your case.

Related Tenant Rights in Yukon

Deposits and fees are a common topic when moving into or out of a rental home. Yukon tenants should also be aware of the difference between security deposits and other charges. For a complete overview, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

If you want more information about general rights, check out Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon.

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FAQ: Key Deposits and Rental Fees in Yukon

  1. Are landlords allowed to charge both a security deposit and a key deposit in Yukon?
    Yes, landlords may charge both, provided the total does not exceed legal limits and the key deposit only covers the replacement value.
  2. What should I do if my landlord doesn't return my key deposit?
    First, request the refund in writing. If unresolved, submit an Application for Dispute Resolution to the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office.
  3. Can the landlord deduct money from my key deposit for cleaning or repairs?
    No. The key deposit may only be used for lost or unreturned keys—not for cleaning or other damages.
  4. How much can a landlord charge for a key deposit?
    Only the actual replacement cost of the key or device can be charged, not an additional fee or penalty.
  5. Is a written receipt needed when I give back my keys?
    It is strongly recommended to request a written receipt for returned keys to avoid disputes over deposits.

Summary: What Tenants Should Know

  • Key deposits are allowed in Yukon but must be refundable and set at the real replacement cost.
  • Always get receipts and keep documentation about deposits and key returns.
  • If your deposit isn’t refunded, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for help.

Staying informed helps you protect your rights and avoid common rental issues related to deposits and move-outs.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

  1. Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon)
  2. Residential Tenancies Office, Government of Yukon
  3. Dispute Resolution Form – Yukon Tenancies

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