What counts as evidence in a housing human rights claim
Collect evidence that shows what happened, when, and how it affected your access to housing or accommodation. Prioritize items that record dates, locations and the landlord or agent involved.
- Photos and videos showing the incident, dates and locations.
- Time-stamped screenshots or metadata that prove when messages, photos or repairs occurred.
- Copies of emails, text messages and written notices related to the issue.
- Official notices and forms you received or served, including any written refusals of accommodation.
- Witness contact details and short signed statements describing what they saw or heard.
- Medical notes or professional assessments when the issue involves disability or health-related accommodation.
- Repair requests, inspection reports and habitability records that tie to safety or accessibility concerns.
- Receipts, rent records and deposit documentation that show financial impacts linked to the discriminatory act.
How to label and store documents
Keep a clear folder (electronic and paper) per incident, with filenames or headings that include the date and a short description. Back up photos and key emails to cloud storage and keep originals when possible.
- Use a consistent file name format like YYYY-MM-DD_description to make chronology obvious.
- Group official forms and notices together and attach a one-line note explaining why each item matters.
- Keep a dated log of phone calls and in-person conversations with brief notes of content and outcomes.
Required official forms and how to use them
File the territorial complaint form to start a human rights process and keep a copy of any tenancy dispute application if you also raise related rental issues.
- Human Rights Complaint Form — used to begin a housing discrimination complaint with the Yukon Human Rights Commission; include copies of key documents and a clear chronology when you submit it.[1]
- Residential Tenancies dispute application — used when a tenancy issue must be resolved by the tenancy office or tribunal; attach evidence that overlaps with the human rights complaint (for example, habitability records or notices).[3]
- Refer to the Yukon Human Rights Act for legal definitions and jurisdictional rules to understand what the tribunal will consider.[2]
If you need alternative housing during or after a complaint, consider searching for other listings and note any differences in how landlords handle accessibility and screening. Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
FAQ
- How soon should I file a human rights complaint in Yukon?
- You should file as soon as possible; timelines can vary and may affect evidence preservation, so contact the Yukon Human Rights Commission early to confirm any deadlines and next steps.
- Can I raise the same problems with both the tenancy office and the Human Rights Commission?
- Yes. Tenancy and human rights processes are separate; you can pursue a human rights complaint about discrimination while also using residential tenancy procedures for issues like repairs or eviction.[3]
- What makes a witness statement useful?
- Clear, dated, signed statements that describe who saw what, where and when — and include contact information — are more persuasive than vague recollections.
How-To
- Locate and download the Human Rights Complaint Form and any tenancy application forms you may need.[1]
- Gather all photos, videos, messages and receipts into a single folder labeled with the incident dates.
- Ask witnesses for short written statements and permission to share their contact details if the tribunal will contact them.
- Create a timeline that links dates to documents and statements so the sequence of events is clear.
- Fill in forms carefully, attach evidence, and keep a copy of everything you submit.
- Contact the Yukon Human Rights Commission or the Residential Tenancies Office for filing instructions and confirm how they accept submissions.
Key Takeaways
- Keep dated, orderly records of all communications and incidents.
- Use the official Human Rights Complaint Form and attach clear evidence.
- Act promptly to preserve evidence and confirm filing timelines.
Help and Support / Resources
- Yukon Human Rights Commission
- Yukon Human Rights Act (consolidated legislation)
- Residential Tenancies Office, Government of Yukon
