Eviction Rules for Tenants in Yukon: What You Need to Know

Facing eviction or worried about losing your rental home in Yukon? Understanding how eviction laws work is crucial for protecting your rights. Yukon’s rules are set out in the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon)^[1] and are overseen by the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office. This guide breaks down what tenants should expect, your protections, and what you can do if you receive an eviction notice.

Understanding Eviction: What It Means for Yukon Tenants

Eviction is the legal process where a landlord ends your tenancy, requiring you to move out of your rental home. In Yukon, evictions can only happen for reasons allowed by law, and landlords must follow strict procedures. You cannot be evicted without proper notice or a legal reason.

Common Legal Reasons for Eviction in Yukon

Landlords in Yukon can only evict tenants for certain reasons. Common grounds include:

• Non-payment of rent
• Repeated late payment of rent
• Extensive property damage
• Interfering with others’ enjoyment or safety
• The landlord needs the unit for themselves or close family
• Major repairs requiring the unit to be vacant

For every situation, the landlord must give proper legal notice and use the required forms.

What Notices and Forms Are Required?

Yukon law requires landlords to use set forms and give tenants written notice with specific timeframes.

• Form 1: Notice to Terminate (for Cause) – Used for non-payment of rent, damage, or other "for cause" reasons. Landlords typically must give at least 14 days notice. If you pay the overdue rent before the notice period ends, the termination is void.
• Form 2: Notice to Terminate (without Cause) – Required if the landlord wants to end the tenancy for reasons like moving in or selling; usually 2-3 months notice depending on the reason.

You can access official forms here: Yukon government rental forms.^[2]

Example: If your landlord claims you have repeatedly paid rent late, they would give you a Notice to Terminate (for Cause) with at least 14 days’ notice, outlining the reasons.

Your Rights as a Tenant During Eviction

You do not have to leave simply because you receive a notice. You have rights, including the ability to dispute the eviction through the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office. Landlords cannot change the locks or remove your belongings without an order from the office. Learn more about your protections on the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon page.

How to Dispute an Eviction Notice

• Contact the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office immediately if you disagree with the notice.
• Submit an Application for Dispute Resolution within 10 days of receiving the notice for non-payment of rent, or within 5 days for other types of notice. The office will schedule a hearing to decide your case.

The Residential Tenancies Office oversees all applications and enforces decisions. Their process is designed to be accessible for tenants—not just landlords.

FAQs About Eviction in Yukon

Many tenants worry about eviction, even for common issues like rent increases or disagreements over repairs. For a deeper look into tenant and landlord responsibilities, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

1. How much notice does my landlord need to give for eviction in Yukon?
   It depends on the reason. For non-payment of rent, at least 14 days’ notice is required. Other reasons may require up to 3 months’ notice. Always check the type of notice you received.
2. Can I stay in my unit if I dispute the eviction?
   Yes, if you file a dispute with the Residential Tenancies Office within the required timeline, you may stay until your case is decided.
3. What if my landlord changes the locks without an order?
   This is not allowed. Contact the Residential Tenancies Office—they can order your landlord to let you back in and may penalize the landlord.
4. Does my landlord always need a reason to end my tenancy?
   Yes. Except for some fixed-term agreements, your landlord must have a legal reason and give proper notice using official forms.
5. Where can I get help if I have more eviction questions?
   The Yukon Residential Tenancies Office is your main resource. See the Resources section below for contact details.

How to Respond to an Eviction Notice in Yukon

1. Read the notice carefully
   Check the notice type, dates, and reasons. Make sure the information matches your situation.
2. Check if the form is correct
   Landlords must use official forms and provide legal notice periods.
3. Decide if you want to dispute
   If you believe the notice isn’t valid, or you have an explanation (like paying the overdue rent), file an Application for Dispute Resolution within the deadline.
4. Submit your dispute
   Complete the relevant form from the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office and submit in person, by email, or by fax.
5. Collect evidence
   Gather receipts, communications, and any evidence that supports your case.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Eviction can only happen for lawful reasons and with proper notice in Yukon.
• Always check the form and grounds for eviction—dispute quickly if you disagree.
• The Yukon Residential Tenancies Office is there to help both tenants and landlords resolve disputes fairly.

If you’re looking for a new home after an eviction or just want more options, you can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme today.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Yukon Residential Tenancies Office – Forms, dispute information, and contact details
• Phone: 867-667-5944 or toll free 1-800-661-0408 ext. 5944
• Email: rto@gov.yk.ca
• For more about your rights in the territory, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon

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1. Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon) - current version
2. Official Yukon Landlord and Tenant Forms

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