If you're renting a furnished home in Yukon, understanding how deposits work can protect your money and reduce surprises. This guide explains what a landlord may legally request for furnished units, when a deposit must be receipted, and common conditions that can affect refunds. It highlights practical steps tenants can take at move‑in — such as documenting existing damage and asking for inventory lists — and outlines when to use Yukon tenancy forms or contact the territory's residential tenancy office for help. The language is kept plain for renters, with examples of filing disputes, timelines to expect for refunds, and tips to increase your chances of getting the full deposit back.
What landlords can ask for with furnished rentals
In Yukon, landlords may ask for a security deposit or a damage deposit for furnished units. Deposit practices must follow territorial rules and should be documented with a receipt. If your landlord asks for extra payment for furniture replacement or cleaning, ask for a written itemized explanation and a signed receipt.
- Ask for a clear written receipt whenever you pay a deposit or extra fee.
- Request an inventory of furnished items and note condition to avoid disputes at move‑out.
- Keep any written lease clauses about furnished items and deposits together with photos.
At move-in: document condition and agree on inventory
Documenting the condition of furniture and the unit protects both tenants and landlords. Use photos, short video, and a signed inventory when possible. If the landlord does not provide an inventory, prepare your own and ask them to sign it or email confirmation.
- Take time-stamped photos and short videos of furniture, appliances, walls and floors.
- Create a simple inventory list and ask the landlord to sign or acknowledge it in writing.
- Save all communications about repairs or pre-existing damage in case you need to apply for dispute resolution later.
When a landlord can keep part or all of a deposit
Common lawful reasons for deductions include unpaid rent, specific damage beyond normal wear and tear, or unpaid cleaning costs tied to restoring the unit to the condition noted at move‑in. Landlords should provide an itemized statement of deductions and receipts for repair costs.
- Unpaid rent or arrears is a usual ground for deductions.
- Damage beyond normal wear and tear, documented with photos and receipts, can be deducted.
- Missing or broken furnished items listed on the inventory may be charged if proof is provided.
Official forms and where to find them
Yukon publishes guidance and forms for tenancy disputes and procedures. Two tenant-focused forms to know about are:
- Application for Residential Tenancies dispute resolution — use this form to start a dispute when you and your landlord cannot agree about a deposit deduction; for example, if you provided an inventory and photos and the landlord still withholds money. See the official form and filing instructions on the Yukon government site[1].
- Security deposit receipt / record — always ask for a receipt when you pay a deposit; a written receipt that describes the amount and purpose makes it easier to prove payment when you file a claim. Guidance and sample receipt information are available from the Residential Tenancies pages[2].
FAQ
- Can a landlord charge more for a furnished rental?
- Yes, landlords can factor furnished items into the deposit or rent, but any extra charges must be reasonable, documented and supported by receipts for deductions at move‑out.
- What should I do if I don't get my deposit back?
- Start by asking the landlord for an itemized statement and receipts. If you cannot resolve it, file the territory's dispute application with the Residential Tenancies Office as described on the Yukon government site[1].
- Do I need an inventory to get my deposit back?
- An inventory signed by both parties helps a lot, but if you do not have one your photos and communication records can still support your claim.
How-To
- Take comprehensive photos and short videos of every room and furnished item on or before move‑in.
- Create or request an inventory list and get the landlord to sign or confirm it by email.
- Keep copies of all receipts, repair invoices, rent payments and written communications about the unit's condition.
- If the landlord withholds the deposit unfairly, ask for an itemized statement and try to resolve by phone or email first.
- If you cannot settle, file the official dispute application with the Residential Tenancies Office and attach your photos, inventory and receipts.
Help and Support / Resources
- Contact the Residential Tenancies Office (Government of Yukon)
- Residential Tenancies guidance and forms (Government of Yukon)
- Security deposit and dispute information (Government of Yukon)
