How to Sublet or Assign Your Lease in Yukon: Tenant Guide

Thinking about transferring your rental lease to someone else in Yukon? Subletting and assignment are options for tenants, but each has specific steps, legal requirements, and risks. This guide explains what tenants need to know about transferring a lease, getting landlord consent, forms to use, and how the laws protect your rights.

What Does It Mean to Sublet or Assign a Lease?

Subletting means you temporarily hand over your unit to a new tenant (the "subtenant") but remain responsible for rent and for following the rental agreement. Assignment is when you permanently transfer your lease—and all obligations—to a new person, with landlord approval.

• Sublet: You move out temporarily but plan to return; you're still legally tied to the lease.
• Assignment: You move out for good, and the new tenant takes over all rights and obligations.

Both require the landlord’s written consent and must follow the Yukon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act^[1].

Step-by-Step: How to Sublet or Assign Your Lease

Here’s what Yukon tenants should do if they want to sublet or assign their unit:

• Review your rental agreement for any subletting or assignment rules.
• Find a suitable new tenant yourself. The law allows this as long as the new tenant is suitable.
• Complete the official form requesting landlord consent:

Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Form: Tenant’s Notice of Intent to Sublet or Assign (No formal number)
  Download the official Yukon sublet/assignment notice form
  When and how to use: Give this form to your landlord when you wish to sublet or assign the lease. Fill in your info and details for your proposed new tenant. For example, if you need to move to a new city but want to avoid breaking your lease, use this form to ask for landlord approval to transfer your responsibilities.

Your landlord must respond within 7 days. If they refuse, they can only do so with valid reasons (e.g., the new tenant does not qualify financially).

Landlord Consent—What If They Say No?

Your landlord can’t refuse subletting or assignment unreasonably under Yukon law. If you think the refusal is unfair, contact the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office for help or dispute resolution.

Key Rights and Responsibilities During Transfer

• Until you get written approval, you remain responsible for rent and damages—even if the new tenant has moved in.
• A sublet means you’re still responsible for the lease; with an assignment, the new tenant takes over everything.
• Security deposits often stay with the unit; ensure a clear written agreement on how the deposit is handled.

You can read more about Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for a full rundown of what’s expected during a lease transfer.

Moving Out After Assignment

If you assign your lease, you forfeit your rights and responsibilities after the transfer date. Make sure to follow all steps for a proper transition. For advice on moving out, check How to Properly End Your Rental Agreement as a Tenant.

What If You Need to Leave Before Your Lease Ends?

Subletting or assignment is often the best solution if you need to leave your Yukon rental early. This can help you avoid penalties for breaking the lease. For other options, see What to Do If You Need to Leave Your Rental Before the Lease Expires.

Which Authority Handles Tenancy Disputes?

The Yukon Residential Tenancies Office oversees all landlord-tenant issues across the territory. They provide information, forms, and dispute resolution services related to subletting, assignment, and other matters.

For a summary of tenant and landlord rights—including around lease transfers—visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon.

Looking for a new rental after assigning your lease? Browse apartments for rent in Canada and find your next home with ease.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need my landlord’s permission to sublet or assign my apartment in Yukon?
   Yes, you must always get written consent from your landlord before subletting or assigning your lease.
2. What happens if my landlord refuses my request to transfer?
   Landlords must have reasonable grounds to refuse. You can apply to the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office if you think the refusal was unfair.
3. Who is responsible for damages or unpaid rent after I sublet?
   In a sublet, you remain responsible; after a lawful assignment, the new tenant takes over.
4. Is there a fee to assign or sublet my lease?
   The landlord may charge a reasonable administrative fee, but it cannot be excessive and must be disclosed.
5. How does the security deposit work during subletting or assignment?
   The deposit typically stays with the rental unit and transfers to the new tenant. Arrange this clearly in writing.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• You can sublet or assign your lease in Yukon, but you must get written landlord consent first.
• Use the Yukon government’s official form and wait for your landlord’s decision before your new tenant moves in.
• The Yukon Residential Tenancies Office can help if there is a dispute over subletting or assignment.

Always confirm all details in writing and know your responsibilities before transferring your lease. This protects your rights and gives everyone clarity.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Yukon Residential Tenancies Office – Main authority for tenant/landlord questions, forms, and dispute resolution.
• Yukon Housing and Property – Information for renters and property owners.
• For additional rights and resources, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon.
• Tenants’ associations and community legal clinics often provide advice if you are unsure of your next steps.

1. Yukon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: Read the official legislation
2. Yukon Residential Tenancies Office – Guidance and forms: Official Yukon renting information