Can Your Employer Evict You? Yukon Tenant Housing Rights

Living in employer-provided housing is common in Yukon, especially for seasonal, remote, or resource industry jobs. But what happens if your employment ends—can your employer legally evict you? Knowing your rights and the special rules for these situations is essential for tenants across the territory.

Understanding Employer-Provided Housing in Yukon

Some jobs in Yukon include housing as part of your employment. This is often called “employee accommodation” or “employer-provided housing.” In these cases, your employer acts as your landlord, and your ability to remain in the home is sometimes tied to your job status.

However, you still have important rights under Yukon’s tenancy law. If you’re unsure whether your rental is covered, check your agreement and clarify with your employer.

Which Laws Protect Tenants in Yukon?

In Yukon, tenant rights are primarily protected by the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act¹. Most residential tenancies, including employer-provided housing, are covered by this law. If your unit is excluded (for example, certain staff residences in camps or hotels), specific rules may apply, so review your situation carefully.

The Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon page provides detailed information about how these laws apply throughout the territory.

When Can Your Employer Evict You?

As your landlord, your employer cannot simply evict you without following legal steps, even if your job ends. Here are the most common scenarios:

• If you lose your job: Your employer must serve you with proper written notice under the Act.
• If you break tenancy rules: Employers/landlords can only evict for specific legal reasons, such as non-payment of rent or serious damage.
• Immediate eviction: This is only allowed in rare circumstances, such as if there is danger to people or property.

Typically, if your employment ends, you must be given at least one month's written notice to end your tenancy. The exact notice required depends on the employment and tenancy agreement and the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act¹.

Required Eviction Notice and Official Forms

Employers must use formal notice if they want you to leave. The most relevant form is:

• Notice to Terminate Tenancy (Form 1): Download from the Yukon government. Your employer must complete and deliver this form to you with the correct notice period. For example, if your job ends, the landlord should specify that the notice is due to end of employment, as allowed by the Act. If you receive this form, double-check that the termination reason is valid and that required timelines have been followed. If you believe it is unfair or incorrect, you can dispute it (see below).

If you need more guidance on how various rights and responsibilities apply after the rental agreement—regardless of who your landlord is—see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

How to Dispute an Employer Eviction

Tenants who feel wrongfully evicted can file an application to resolve their dispute.

• Application to the Residential Tenancies Office: Yukon’s Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) handles all landlord-tenant disputes, including those involving employer housing. File this application promptly if you want to challenge the eviction, or the deadline may pass.

Dispute Resolution Process

After submitting the application, the RTO may arrange mediation or a hearing. Both sides can present their evidence. If you win, you may be allowed to stay or receive compensation.

Tip: Keep copies of your job contract, tenancy agreement, and all correspondence with your employer. Documentation makes your case much stronger if you need to dispute your eviction.

Your Health, Safety, and Cleanliness Rights

No matter who your landlord is, Yukon law requires safe and healthy rental conditions. If you experience unsafe living conditions in employer housing—such as lack of heat, pests, or maintenance issues—report them to your employer-landlord in writing. If problems persist, you can contact the Residential Tenancies Office for further help.

For more details about these protections, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Your Next Steps if Facing Employer Eviction

If your employer asks you to move out, here’s what to do:

• Check if you received a properly completed Notice to Terminate Tenancy (Form 1), with the correct notice period.
• Confirm the reason for eviction is allowed by Yukon tenancy law.
• Gather relevant documents (employment contract, correspondence, rent records).
• Submit an application to the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office if you want to dispute the eviction or clarify your rights.
• For alternative housing options, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

FAQ: Employer Eviction and Tenant Rights in Yukon

1. Can my employer evict me immediately if my job ends?
   Usually not. Employers must give written notice as required by the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, except in rare emergency situations.
2. What if I live in employer housing but pay rent separately?
   Your rights are still protected by Yukon tenancy law. The rental agreement remains valid regardless of your job status.
3. How do I dispute a termination notice from my employer?
   You must submit an application to the Residential Tenancies Office before your notice period expires to have your case heard.
4. Is seasonal or camp housing covered by Yukon tenancy laws?
   Some camp or temporary housing may be excluded. Check your agreement and contact the RTO if unsure.
5. Where can I learn more about overall tenant rights in Yukon?
   Visit the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon page for comprehensive details.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Employers must follow Yukon law and use proper notice to evict tenants from employer-provided housing.
• You have the right to dispute an eviction by applying to the Residential Tenancies Office before your notice period ends.
• Know your housing rights, keep thorough documentation, and seek help if you’re unsure.

In summary, employer housing does not mean you lose your tenant protections. Understanding the rules—especially around eviction and dispute resolution—can help you remain safe and secure in your home even during job changes.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Yukon Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) – Inquiries and dispute forms: 867-667-5944 or rto@gov.yk.ca
• Yukon's Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon – Your complete guide to Yukon housing law
• Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme if you need to secure alternative accommodation

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1. Yukon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

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