Condo Conversion Rules and Tenant Rights in Yukon

When a landlord decides to convert a rental apartment building into condominiums in Yukon, it can be unsettling for tenants. Condo conversions follow specific rules intended to protect your tenancy and give you time to plan. This guide explains what happens during the process, your rights, forms you might encounter, and practical steps you can take if your building is being converted.

Understanding Condo Conversions in Yukon

A "condo conversion" is when an existing rental building is changed into individual condominium units, often sold to new owners. This process can impact tenants, but the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon)^[1] outlines key protections you should know about.

• Tenants are entitled to receive substantial advance notice if a landlord plans to convert their unit to a condo.
• Your landlord cannot simply evict you because they wish to sell your unit as a condo – strict procedures apply.
• In most cases, your right to remain as a tenant continues until the end of any fixed-term lease and with proper legal notice.

If you want an overview of your rights as a tenant in Yukon, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon.

Notice Requirements for Condo Conversion

Under the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon), a landlord must provide written notice in the proper form before ending a tenancy due to a condo conversion. The required statutory notice is currently at least 120 days before ending your tenancy.

• This notice must include the reason (condo conversion) and the date your tenancy will end.
• Any fixed-term rental agreement must be respected until its end unless both parties agree otherwise.
• Tenants may apply to the Residential Tenancies Office (Yukon) if proper notice is not given or if they believe the procedure was not followed correctly.

Key Forms and How They’re Used

• Notice to End Tenancy for Conversion (Form 3): This official form, required by the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office, is used by landlords to inform tenants when ending a tenancy because of a condo conversion. It clearly states the reason and the date your tenancy ends. Review the notice immediately and check that it matches legal requirements.
  Official source: Notice to End Tenancy for Conversion (PDF)

What Tenants Should Do If Their Building Converts

Here’s what you can do if you receive a condo conversion notice:

• Verify the notice is on the correct form and was delivered properly
• Confirm you received at least 120 days’ written notice
• If your landlord did not follow the rules, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office to challenge the notice
• Begin looking for new rental housing as soon as possible

Planning your move? It’s smart to start researching available properties. Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings and compare different locations to find the right match.

Moving Out and Return of Deposits

When moving out due to a condo conversion, your landlord must return your security deposit as long as you meet all the conditions (such as proper notice, leaving the unit clean, and returning keys). For a detailed explanation, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Tenant Rights and Ongoing Responsibilities

You have the right to:

• Remain in your unit until the end of your notice period or lease
• Proper written notice and clear communication
• Challenge improper notice through the Residential Tenancies Office

Remember that you must continue paying rent, maintaining the unit, and following all usual tenancy obligations until your move-out date. If you need a refresher, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

What If I Want to Stay?

You can discuss the possibility of buying your unit with your landlord or a new condo owner; however, they are not legally required to sell it to you. Once your tenancy ends as per the legal notice, you must vacate the unit unless a new agreement is reached in writing.

FAQ: Condo Conversions and Tenants in Yukon

1. Do I have to move out immediately if my building is converting to condos?
   No. You must receive written notice at least 120 days before you are required to leave. Always check the notice for correct dates.
2. What official notice should my landlord use?
   The landlord must use the official Notice to End Tenancy for Conversion (Form 3) from the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office.
3. Will I get my security deposit back?
   Yes, if you meet all conditions such as cleaning and returning the keys, your landlord must return your deposit after you vacate.
4. Can I challenge the notice if I feel it’s not legitimate?
   Yes. You can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office to review or overturn the notice if it does not meet legal requirements.
5. What should I do to prepare for moving out?
   Start searching for new housing early, keep records of all communications, and ensure the unit is in good condition before your final move-out inspection.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• You are protected by a mandatory notice period of 120 days for condo conversions in Yukon.
• Always make sure your landlord uses the correct form and follows the official process.
• Reach out for support if you feel your rights have been overlooked or if you need help finding new housing.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Yukon Residential Tenancies Office: Get landlord-tenant help, forms, and dispute resolution. Phone: 867-667-5944
• Government of Yukon - Landlords and Tenants: Information, FAQs, and published resources
• For housing search support, Browse apartments for rent in Canada for options beyond Yukon

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1. Yukon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: View the full text on the Government of Yukon website
2. Yukon Residential Tenancies Office: Official tenant and landlord resource
3. Notice to End Tenancy for Conversion (Form 3): Download the official form (PDF)

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