Landlord Rules: What They Can and Cannot Do in Yukon

Are you renting in Yukon and unsure about what your landlord can or cannot do? Understanding your tenant rights helps you stay protected and ensures a fair rental experience. In Yukon, residential tenancies are governed by clear legislation that outlines both landlord and tenant responsibilities.

Who Oversees Landlord and Tenant Matters in Yukon?

In Yukon, the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) handles rental disputes, complaints, and official forms. The main law is the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon)[1].

What Landlords Can Do Under Yukon Law

Landlords in Yukon must follow the legal rules to maintain fair, safe, and habitable rental housing. Here’s what they can do:

  • Collect a Security Deposit: Up to one month’s rent, held according to the Act. For more details, visit Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
  • Enter Your Rental: With at least 24 hours’ written notice, only between 8:00am and 8:00pm, and only for specific reasons (like inspections or repairs).
  • Increase Rent: Only once every 12 months, and with at least three months’ written notice. Learn more at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon.
  • Request Information: Only information relevant to the tenancy, like proof of income or references.
  • Carry Out Repairs: Maintain the unit in a good state of repair—health and safety must always come first.

When in doubt, check your lease or contact the RTO for clarification.

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What Landlords Cannot Do in Yukon

Yukon landlords are not allowed to:

  • Enter Without Notice: Except in emergencies or with your permission.
  • Raise Rent Without Proper Notice: Rent can only be increased after 12 months, with 3 months' written notice.
  • Remove or Withhold Services: Such as heat, electricity, or water—even if you are behind on rent.
  • Evict Without Legal Grounds: Landlords must follow the legal eviction process with proper forms and notice periods.
  • Change Locks Without Consent: Only allowed with tenant's agreement or by official order.
  • Discriminate: It is illegal to discriminate based on race, gender, age, family status, or disability.

Tenants have rights to privacy, safety, and liveable conditions. If you experience issues like pest infestation, heating problems, or unsafe conditions, read Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting or contact the RTO.

Common Landlord-Related Forms: When and How to Use Them

  • Notice of Entry (Form 2): Used when a landlord intends to enter your unit (for repairs, inspection, or showings). They must provide at least 24 hours written notice. Download Form 2 from the Yukon Government.
    Example: If your landlord wants to show your apartment to a new tenant, they must use this form and give you appropriate notice.
  • Notice of Rent Increase (Form 5): Landlords must fill out and give this form to raise your rent, with 3 months' advanced notice and after 12 months from last increase. Download Form 5 here.
    Example: If you pay $1,000/month and your landlord wishes to increase the rent, they must deliver this form three months before the new rate takes effect.
  • Notice to End Tenancy (Form 3/4): Used for giving or receiving legal notice to end tenancy. Forms differ by reason (non-payment, cause, or end of term). Find the correct forms here.
    Example: If your landlord believes you’ve broken your lease, they must serve the termination form officially—not just tell you verbally.
You have the right to written notice for any major changes, including rent increases or access to your home. Always request written documentation if you are uncertain.

Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Yukon Tenant

Both tenants and landlords must follow what’s in the lease, as well as all legislation. For a complete overview, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

  • Pay rent on time and keep the property clean
  • Notify your landlord about necessary repairs in writing
  • Do not withhold rent as a way to resolve disputes (instead, seek help from the RTO)

Yukon has clear steps for handling disputes, repairs, and legal actions. If an issue can’t be resolved, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Office to have it reviewed.

Steps for Tenants: What to Do if Your Landlord Breaks the Rules

If you believe your landlord is violating your rights, here’s a summary of the action you can take:

  • Communicate in writing—keep records and copies of all messages.
  • Fill out the appropriate Yukon RTO form (see above for eviction or notice).
  • Submit a complaint or application to the Residential Tenancies Office in person or by mail.
  • Attend the scheduled hearing, present your evidence, and follow the decision.

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FAQ: Yukon Tenant and Landlord Rules

  1. Can a landlord evict me without notice in Yukon?
    No, they must provide proper written notice using the required forms. Only in emergencies can a landlord ask you to leave immediately, such as for safety concerns. For most evictions, specific notice periods (like 14 days for non-payment) apply.
  2. Is a landlord allowed to enter my apartment at any time?
    No. Except in real emergencies, your landlord must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice and only enter between 8:00am and 8:00pm.
  3. How often can rent be increased?
    Your rent can only be increased once every 12 months, with a minimum of three months’ advance written notice using the required Yukon government form.
  4. Do I have to allow a landlord showing the apartment to new tenants?
    Yes, but only with legal notice—24 hours in writing. You do not have to be home, but your landlord must respect your privacy and permitted hours.
  5. Where can I get official forms about landlord and tenant issues?
    All forms are available from the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office or download landlord/tenant forms here.

Key Takeaways for Tenants in Yukon

  • Landlords must follow strict notice requirements for rent increases, entry, and ending tenancy.
  • You are protected against illegal lockouts, unreasonable entry, or lack of essential services.
  • Always keep written records, use official forms, and contact the Yukon RTO if needed.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

  1. Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon), available at Yukon Laws: Residential Landlord and Tenant Act
  2. Residential Tenancies Office – Government of Yukon: Official RTO Website
  3. Yukon Government Landlord and Tenant Forms: Landlord-Tenant Forms

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