Illegal Fees Tenants Should Watch For in Yukon

Understanding what landlords can and cannot charge you for is crucial to a safe and fair renting experience. In Yukon, tenants are protected by clear rules under the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. This guide outlines the most common illegal fees for tenants in Yukon, provides direction on what to do if you’re asked to pay improper charges, and connects you to essential local resources.

What Are "Illegal Fees" in Yukon Rentals?

Illegal fees are any charges that a landlord tries to collect from a tenant which are not allowed under Yukon's Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (RLTA). These may include extra amounts demanded before, during, or after a tenancy – if the law or your written lease does not clearly permit them, they’re likely not allowed.

Most Common Illegal Fees Tenants Encounter

• Additional Security or Damage Deposits: Yukon law limits landlords to only one security deposit per tenancy agreement, usually no more than an amount equal to half a month’s rent. Extra or "refundable" deposits for things like keys or pets are almost always prohibited. For details on deposits, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
• Processing or Administration Fees: Charges such as “lease signing,” "paperwork," or "admin" fees are not allowed unless stated in the written lease and permitted by law.
• Maintenance or Routine Repair Fees: Standard property upkeep and repairs fall under the landlord’s responsibility and cannot be charged separately to tenants, except in rare cases where the tenant caused the damage. If you have questions about repairs, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.
• Charges for Regular Wear and Tear: Deducting costs for normal usage and aging of the property from your deposit or charging extra is not legal.
• Penalty Fees Not Allowed by Law: For example, extra charges for late rent that do not follow legal limits or rules.
• Pest Control Charges: If a pest problem is not caused by the tenant's actions, landlords generally cannot charge tenants for extermination or treatment. Information on this is found in Dealing with Pests in Your Rental: Tenant Rights and Effective Solutions.

In summary, if you’re asked to pay a fee that is not clearly referenced in your lease agreement and the RLTA, it’s probably not allowed.

What Fees Are Permitted for Tenants in Yukon?

Here are some charges that are legal in Yukon if handled correctly:

• Security Deposit: One deposit at the start of your lease, up to half a month’s rent.
• Rent: The agreed-upon rental amount as stated in your signed agreement.
• Return of Keys or Property Damage: If you lose keys or cause damage beyond normal use, landlords may recover those actual costs.

No additional or recurring fees may be collected outside these approved categories unless the RLTA specifically allows it.

What to Do If You’re Asked to Pay an Illegal Fee

If your landlord demands or withholds money for an illegal fee, you don’t have to pay. Document all communication and keep receipts. The Residential Tenancies Office (Yukon) is the main authority handling disputes and illegal fee complaints. Learn more about your rights at the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon page.

How to File a Complaint or Recover Illegal Fees

If faced with an unlawful charge, tenants can file an official complaint or application for dispute resolution through the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office.

• Form Name: Application to the Director of Residential Tenancies
• Where to Find It: Download from the Yukon government website
• When to Use: If you believe you have been charged an illegal fee and cannot resolve the issue with your landlord directly.
• How It’s Used (Example): If your landlord deducts a $200 “cleaning fee” from your deposit not stated in your lease, you would use this application to ask for the money to be returned.

For more information, visit the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office.

Relevant Legislation and Your Rights

The rules on legal and illegal fees are set out in detail in the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act of Yukon. Be sure to review your lease in combination with these laws.

For rental opportunities and guidance, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

Frequently Asked Questions About Illegal Fees in Yukon

1. What do I do if my landlord deducts an illegal fee from my deposit?
   You should first raise the issue with your landlord in writing. If it is not resolved, file an Application to the Director of Residential Tenancies as outlined above.
2. Can a landlord charge me for regular wear and tear?
   No, normal wear and tear cannot be charged to the tenant. Only damages beyond normal use can be deducted from your deposit.
3. Are administration or "move-in" fees allowed in Yukon?
   No, unless these fees are clearly permitted by law and explicitly stated in your rental agreement, administration and similar fees are generally not allowed in Yukon.
4. Where do I find official information about my rights and responsibilities?
   Visit the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon page or the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Landlords in Yukon can only charge fees specifically allowed by law.
• Do not pay or agree to any fee not listed in your written lease and the RLTA.
• Use the Application to the Director of Residential Tenancies if you need to challenge an illegal fee.

Understanding these rules helps ensure a fair, safe rental experience, and protects your rights as a tenant in Yukon.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Yukon Residential Tenancies Office: Official government information, forms, and contacts.
• Dispute Resolution Forms: Application to the Director of Residential Tenancies.
• Local Tenant and Housing Advocacy: Contact the Yukon Housing Corporation for advice or referrals.

---

1. Yukon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
2. Yukon Residential Tenancies Office
3. Application to the Director of Residential Tenancies (Yukon forms and dispute process)

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent & Deposits Leases & Agreements Moving In / Out Maintenance & Repairs Evictions Roommates & Shared Housing Discrimination & Accessibility Utilities & Services Affordable Housing & Subsidies Dispute Resolution & LTB Safety & Security Privacy & Entry by Landlord Special Tenancy Situations Tenant Insurance & Liability Post-Eviction Resources Landlord Compliance & Penalties Legal Precedents & Case Summaries Mental Health & Tenancy