Key resources: the Residential Tenancies Office handles emergency repair requests and the Yukon residential tenancy law sets the standards and processes for urgent interventions.[1]
When to use the Emergency Repairs Request Form
Use the Emergency Repairs Request Form when a defect poses an immediate risk to health, safety, or the habitability of your rental and the landlord is unavailable or unable to fix it quickly. Typical examples include burst pipes with flooding, loss of heat in cold weather, major gas leaks, severe electrical hazards, or an active sewage backup. If the issue threatens property or personal safety, act fast and follow the steps below to document and seek repairs.
Common emergency problems
- Burst or frozen water pipes causing flooding or loss of water.
- No heating during extreme cold or heating system failure.
- Confirmed gas leaks or strong gas odour.
- Exposed live electrical wiring or imminent fire risk.
- Sewage backups or major plumbing failures creating health hazards.
How the Emergency Repairs Request Form works in Yukon
The form lets tenants tell the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) that they’ve tried to reach the landlord but urgent repairs are needed now. The RTO can confirm whether the situation is an emergency under Yukon rules and may authorize repairs or provide guidance about next steps. When using the form, include clear descriptions, photos, and copies of any messages you sent to the landlord so the Office can act efficiently.[2]
What to include with your submission
- Photos or short videos showing the damage or hazard.
- Dates and times of when you first reported the issue to your landlord.
- A brief list of steps you took to reduce harm (shut off water, turned off breakers, etc.).
FAQ
- What counts as an emergency repair?
- An emergency repair is a problem that makes the unit unsafe or uninhabitable right now, like major flooding, gas leaks, total loss of heat, or serious electrical hazards.
- How do I submit the Emergency Repairs Request Form?
- Complete the RTO form with your contact details, description of the issue, and attach photos; explain any attempts to reach the landlord and submit according to the Residential Tenancies Office instructions.
- What if the landlord still doesn’t act after the RTO is informed?
- If the landlord does not arrange repairs after RTO involvement, the Office can advise on next steps, which may include authorization for repairs and cost recovery procedures; keep copies of all communications.
How-To
- Contact your landlord immediately and record the time and method of contact.
- Document the problem with photos or video and note any danger or damage.
- Complete the Emergency Repairs Request Form for the Residential Tenancies Office and attach your evidence.[3]
- Follow up with the RTO as instructed and keep copies of all responses.
Key Takeaways
- Act quickly for safety: document, report, and seek help if repairs threaten health or habitability.
- Use the RTO form when the landlord cannot address urgent repairs in a timely manner.
- Keep clear records and photos to support any follow-up or cost-recovery process.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Office — Government of Yukon
- Residential Landlord and Tenant Act — Yukon legislation
- Emergency repairs guidance and forms — Government of Yukon
