Legal Reasons for Eviction in Yukon: A Tenant’s Guide

Facing eviction as a tenant in Yukon can feel overwhelming, but knowing your rights and the legal reasons landlords can end a tenancy helps you stay prepared. This guide explains the valid grounds for eviction, required processes, and official forms—all under current Yukon law.

Who Regulates Tenant Evictions in Yukon?

Residential tenancies and evictions in Yukon are governed by the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon). All disputes and matters—for both landlords and tenants—are handled by the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office (RTO).

You can visit the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon page for more provincial information.

Legitimate Reasons for Eviction in Yukon

Landlords can only end a tenancy for specific reasons permitted by the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon).1 Some key legal reasons for eviction include:

  • Persistent late or non-payment of rent
  • Serious damage to the property or unit
  • Endangering health and safety or unlawful activity in the rental unit
  • Breach of significant terms of the rental agreement
  • Landlord or close family moving into the property
  • Converting the rental to a non-residential use (e.g., major renovations, sale, demolition)

Most evictions must follow specific notice periods, unless a special circumstance (like immediate danger to health/safety) applies.

Non-Payment or Frequent Late Payment of Rent

If you fail to pay rent on time, your landlord can end your tenancy. They must serve you an official notice, giving at least 14 days before the tenancy ends. If this happens multiple times, the landlord may have additional grounds.

Learn more about rent payment responsibilities in Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

Damage, Disturbance, or Illegal Activity

If a tenant or guest damages the unit, seriously disturbs other renters, or undertakes illegal activity, the landlord can serve notice to terminate the tenancy. YRT Act s.54-57 explains these rules in detail.

Some health and safety breaches (like major fire hazards, dangerous hoarding, or criminal activity) may allow for a shorter notice or even immediate application to the RTO for early termination. Read more about Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Landlord Use of Property or Major Repairs

If the landlord or their close family wants to move in, or the property is to be demolished or converted, eviction may be allowed with proper notice. Major repairs that require the property to be vacant are also grounds for ending the tenancy.

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Required Notices and Official Forms

In Yukon, eviction must be started with a written Notice to Terminate Tenancy, often known as a Notice of Termination. These are some of the common forms and their uses:

  • Form NRT – Notice to Terminate Tenancy: Used by landlords to formally end a tenancy. The notice length can range from 14 days (for non-payment of rent) to 2 months (for owner move-in or major renovations).
  • Form DRA – Application to Dispute Notice: Tenants can use this to dispute an eviction notice. Must be filed at the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office before the notice period ends.
    Find all official Yukon RTO forms here

What to do if you disagree with the notice?

Apply to the RTO with Form DRA as soon as possible. If you do not file before the notice ends, you may lose your right to dispute.

Always read your Notice of Termination fully and check the reason matches what's allowed under the law. Early action is crucial for your rights.

What Should Tenants Do If They Get an Eviction Notice?

You should never ignore an eviction notice. Take the following steps to protect your interests:

  • Read the notice carefully and check dates, reasons, and your next steps
  • If you believe the reason is not valid, promptly file Form DRA (Dispute Notice) with the RTO
  • Gather documents and evidence, especially if the landlord claims you owe money or caused damage
  • Attend any scheduled hearing at the Residential Tenancies Office
  • Contact the RTO for questions or clarification

You can also visit Canada's best rental listings platform if you are actively looking for new rental options in your area.

What Happens After Eviction?

If the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office rules the eviction is lawful, you will need to vacate the property by the date ordered. If you move out, you may also want to review your rights for damage deposit returns and property inspection. Be sure to check our guide on How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can my landlord evict me without a written notice?
    No, landlords must give written notice with the legal reason for eviction, unless the RTO orders otherwise in urgent situations.
  2. What if I fix the problem (like paying rent or repairing damage) after I get a notice?
    You might be able to stop the eviction if you quickly remedy the breach. Check your notice and contact the RTO for next steps.
  3. How much time do I have to move out after receiving an eviction notice?
    It depends on the legal reason for eviction—ranges from 14 days to 2 months. Always check the notice and official forms for the specific date.
  4. What should I do if the eviction seems unfair?
    Submit a Form DRA to dispute the notice at the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office right away.
  5. Can my landlord just change the locks?
    No, landlords cannot change locks or remove your belongings without an official order from the RTO.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Yukon Tenants

  • Evictions must follow Yukon law and use official forms—verbal notices aren't enough
  • If you believe an eviction is unfair, act quickly and file a dispute form
  • Know your rights and seek support from the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office

Understanding your protections helps you make informed decisions if you're ever faced with eviction.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

  1. Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon)
  2. Yukon RTO – Official Forms

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