Ignored a Yukon Eviction Order? Next Steps and Tenant Rights

If you’re a tenant in Yukon facing an eviction order—and considering what happens if you ignore it—it’s important to know your rights, possible consequences, and the steps both you and your landlord can take. Understanding the process can help you avoid further legal trouble and protect your housing rights.

What Is an Eviction Order in Yukon?

An eviction order (sometimes called a possession order) is an official document issued by the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office. It means the tenancy has lawfully ended, and you are directed to leave the rental unit by a specific date, usually following a landlord’s application due to non-payment of rent, breaches of the tenancy agreement, or other legal grounds under the Yukon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act^[1].

What Happens If a Tenant Ignores an Eviction Order?

When you receive a legally-issued eviction order and choose not to move out by the specified date, the landlord cannot forcibly remove you themselves. However, they may take the following steps:

• Apply to the Supreme Court of Yukon to enforce the order
• Request a Writ of Possession (a court order allowing officials to physically remove tenants and their belongings)
• Involve the sheriff or bailiff for actual eviction

This means you could be removed from the premises by court officers, and additional costs could be added to you as a tenant—including legal, court, and moving fees.

Can You Appeal or Delay an Eviction Order?

If you believe the eviction order was issued unfairly or there was a mistake (for example, if you didn’t have a chance to present your side), you may be able to:

• Apply for a review of the decision within the Residential Tenancies Office
• Appeal to the Supreme Court of Yukon within 30 days of the order

Act quickly. Missing key deadlines usually means the process will continue.

Before ignoring an eviction order, contact the Residential Tenancies Office or a tenant support service for advice. Remaining in the unit after an order may increase your risks and costs.

Practical Steps: What Should Tenants Do Next?

Here’s a quick summary to help you respond if you’re facing or have ignored an eviction order in Yukon:

• Review the reasons provided in the order and check if there are errors or misunderstandings.
• Gather documents (receipts, correspondence, your rental agreement, etc.). For more on your rights after signing the lease, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.
• Decide whether to comply, apply for a review, or appeal.
• Act within the stipulated timeline (usually within days, or up to 30 days for court appeals).
• If you plan to move out, prepare for a smooth exit—review your obligations, arrange for final inspection, and seek your deposit return. For help, visit Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

Writ of Possession: The Next Legal Step

If you do not vacate by the deadline, your landlord may apply for a Writ of Possession from the Supreme Court. This form gives legal authority to the sheriff to remove tenants and their property from the rental unit.

• Form/Process: Writ of Possession—applied for by the landlord via the Supreme Court of Yukon. Tenants are served notice of the application.
• Resource: Supreme Court of Yukon: Forms and Procedures
• Tenant example: If you receive notice of a Writ of Possession, you generally have only a few days left in the property and final removal can happen quickly.

Your Rights and Responsibilities Under Yukon Law

Yukon’s Residential Landlord and Tenant Act protects both tenants and landlords, setting clear guidelines:

• Tenants cannot be removed without a legal process and formal eviction order
• Landlords must follow the eviction process to the letter of the law
• Tenants remain responsible for rent and other obligations until tenancy legally ends

For a detailed look at tenant and landlord rights, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon.

If you need to find a new place quickly, Explore rental homes in your area for convenient and up-to-date listings.

FAQ: Ignoring an Eviction Order in Yukon

1. What happens if I stay after the eviction order deadline?
   You can be lawfully removed by a sheriff or bailiff after a Writ of Possession is issued by the Supreme Court of Yukon. Additional costs may apply.
2. Can I appeal or challenge the eviction order?
   Yes, but there are strict deadlines. You can ask for a review from the Residential Tenancies Office or appeal to the Supreme Court within 30 days.
3. Will ignoring an eviction order damage my rental record?
   If the matter goes to court or enforcement involves officials, it can negatively impact your rental history and make future renting more difficult.
4. Can my landlord lock me out or remove my belongings?
   No. Only authorized officers (like a sheriff) can do this, and landlords must follow legal procedures strictly.
5. What if I need help finding a new place on short notice?
   You can explore rental homes in your area quickly online, and some local support agencies may assist in relocation.

Key Takeaways for Yukon Tenants

• Eviction orders are legal documents—ignoring them leads to court enforcement and possible added costs.
• Tenants have the right to appeal, but the timeline is very short—act fast.
• Landlords must go through official channels; you can't be locked out without court orders.

Be proactive: seek advice early and understand your rights and responsibilities under Yukon law.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Yukon Residential Tenancies Office – Help with eviction, tenant rights and applications
• Yukon Legal Services Society – Free or low-cost legal advice
• YESS – Yukon Essential Services Society – Tenant support and emergency housing
• Supreme Court of Yukon – For appeals and writs of possession

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1. ^[1] Yukon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

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