Discrimination and Accessibility FAQs for Yukon Tenants

Discrimination and accessibility are critical issues for tenants in Yukon. Knowing your rights ensures you can live in a safe, fair, and welcoming rental environment—no matter your background or abilities. This guide explains what discrimination is, how to handle it, and what resources are available for tenants seeking fair treatment in Yukon rental housing. Whether you have questions about protected grounds or need to request accommodation from your landlord, you'll find clear answers here.

Understanding Discrimination in Yukon Rental Housing

In Yukon, it is illegal for landlords to discriminate against tenants or applicants on certain protected grounds as outlined in the Yukon Human Rights Act^[1]. Landlords must offer equal treatment regardless of:

• Race, colour or ancestry
• National or ethnic origin
• Religion, age, or sex
• Marital or family status
• Physical or mental disability
• Sexual orientation
• Source of income

If you believe you've been treated unfairly during the rental process or while living in your home, it's your right to take action. For a broader look at tenant and landlord rights, see the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon.

Accessibility: What Are Landlords Required To Do?

Yukon landlords must ensure their rental units are accessible and make reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities. This includes allowing modifications such as grab bars, ramps, or other aids, provided the tenant covers restoration costs if required after moving out.

Accessibility is a two-way responsibility—landlords must accommodate up to the point of undue hardship, and tenants should clearly communicate their needs.

Forms You May Need

• Yukon Human Rights Complaint Form: Use this form if you wish to file a discrimination or accessibility complaint. Download it from the Yukon Human Rights Commission website. Example: If your landlord refuses to allow a guide dog or denies your rental application because of your marital status, complete and submit this form.
• Request for Accommodation (sample letter): While there is no specific Yukon government form, submitting a written letter requesting accessibility modifications or accommodation based on a protected ground is best practice.

How to File a Discrimination or Accessibility Complaint

If you believe your landlord discriminated against you or failed to meet accessibility requirements, follow these steps:

1. Write down details of what happened as soon as possible.
2. Communicate clearly with your landlord. Put requests and incidents in writing.
3. If you cannot resolve the issue, file a complaint using the Yukon Human Rights Complaint Form.
4. Send your complaint to the Yukon Human Rights Commission.

After reviewing your file, the Commission may help mediate the situation, launch an investigation, or, in serious cases, hold a hearing to resolve the dispute. The process protects your right to safe, equitable housing.

Examples of Discrimination and Accessibility Issues

• Refusal to rent to someone on social assistance
• Denying reasonable physical modifications for a mobility-impaired tenant
• Imposing stricter rules on one tenant based on ethnicity or family status

For a broader overview of what tenants might face, refer to Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Your Legal Protections and What to Expect

Discrimination and accessibility protections are covered under the Yukon Human Rights Act^[1] and rental laws set out by the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office^[2].

Rental disputes not involving discrimination are generally handled through the Residential Tenancies Office. But when discrimination or accessibility is at issue, the Human Rights Commission is the right place to turn.

Tip: If you're not sure whether your concern is a tenancy or a human rights issue, contact both offices. They can advise you or direct you to the proper authority.

For information on signing a rental agreement and next steps, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

FAQs About Discrimination and Accessibility in Yukon Rentals

1. What should I do if my landlord refuses to allow a service animal?
   If you have a disability and require a service animal, your landlord must allow it as a reasonable accommodation. If refused, file a complaint with the Yukon Human Rights Commission.
2. Can a landlord refuse to rent to me because I'm on social assistance?
   No, source of income is a protected ground in Yukon. If you are refused a rental home for this reason, you can file a human rights complaint.
3. Am I allowed to make my rental unit more accessible?
   Yes, landlords must allow reasonable modifications for accessibility. However, you may be required to restore the unit when you move out.
4. How long do I have to file a discrimination complaint?
   You must usually file within 18 months of the incident. Submit the Yukon Human Rights Complaint Form to start the process.
5. Does my landlord have to accommodate my religious practices?
   Yes, if your religious needs impact your housing (e.g., prayer space, observances) landlords must accommodate unless it causes undue hardship.

How To Handle a Discrimination or Accessibility Issue in Yukon

1. How do I submit a Yukon Human Rights Complaint Form?
   Fill out the form from the Commission website, provide details, and submit by email or mail as instructed on the form.
2. How can I document my discrimination case?
   Record all relevant events, save texts and emails, and write a brief narrative. Documentation strengthens your complaint.
3. What should I do if my landlord ignores my request for an accessibility accommodation?
   Remind them in writing, outline your needs clearly, and let them know you may contact the Human Rights Commission if the issue isn't resolved.
4. Can someone help me with the Human Rights complaint process?
   Yes. The Yukon Human Rights Commission provides guidance. You can also contact local tenant advocacy organizations for support.

Key Takeaways for Yukon Tenants

• Discrimination based on protected grounds is illegal in Yukon rental housing.
• Landlords must allow reasonable accessibility modifications.
• File complaints promptly and keep written records for your own protection.

Ensure you are informed—proactively communicating and seeking guidance helps resolve issues quickly.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Yukon Human Rights Commission – File discrimination and accessibility complaints, get forms, and learn more about your rights.
• Yukon Residential Tenancies Office – Handles general tenancy issues, disputes, repairs, and evictions.
• Yukon Government – Housing and Property – Additional rental information.
• Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings – Canada-wide rental search and resources.

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1. Yukon Human Rights Act
2. Yukon Residential Tenancies Office

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