Moving Out Early in Yukon: Tenant Penalties and Legal Exceptions

If you're a tenant in Yukon and thinking about moving out before your lease ends, it's important to know your legal rights, possible penalties, and the exceptions that could let you leave early without facing steep costs. This guide covers what Yukon tenants need to understand about ending a tenancy early, how the law protects you in specific situations, and where to get help if you're facing discrimination or accessibility challenges.

Understanding Yukon’s Residential Tenancies Law

In Yukon, rental agreements are governed primarily by the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon). Tenants and landlords must follow its requirements for termination, notice, and exceptions, all overseen by the Residential Tenancies Office (Yukon).[1]

When Can You Move Out Early?

Generally, tenants must give written notice before moving out. The minimum notice depends on whether you are in a periodic (month-to-month) or fixed-term lease. Early termination without following the correct process may result in penalties, such as loss of your security deposit or having to pay rent until your landlord finds a new tenant.[2]

Valid Reasons to End Your Tenancy Early

Yukon law allows several exceptions where tenants have the right to move out before the lease end date without penalties. These include:

  • Landlord breach: If your landlord fails to meet their legal obligations (such as keeping the home safe or making repairs), you may give written notice after following the required procedure.
  • Domestic violence or abuse: Special rules exist for tenants needing to leave for their safety. You can apply for early termination with a landlord and tenant board certificate (request details from the Residential Tenancies Office).
  • Discrimination or accessibility barriers: If your landlord refuses reasonable accommodations, tenants facing discrimination may have a legal right to break the lease without penalty. You may also file a complaint with the Yukon Human Rights Commission if needed.

For health and safety-related reasons, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

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Notice Requirements and Forms

When moving out, tenants must provide written notice using the official forms:

Example: If you are month-to-month, you must give at least one month's written notice before moving out, dated to the end of a rental period.[3]

Penalties for Moving Out Early Without Proper Cause

  • You may lose part or all of your security deposit
  • The landlord can require you to pay for lost rent until a new tenant moves in
  • Potential claims for damages if you abandon the unit

For steps to get your deposit back, see How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

Exceptions: When Early Termination Is Allowed

Certain situations allow tenants in Yukon to end a lease sooner without penalties:

  • Uninhabitable or unsafe conditions
  • Violence or threat to tenant's safety
  • Failure of the landlord to fulfill legal duties
  • Accommodation needs for disability or human rights concerns

Contact the Yukon Human Rights Commission if you suspect discrimination or lack of accessibility related to your move.

Practical Steps for Tenants Considering Early Move-Out

  • Speak with your landlord about your situation as soon as possible
  • Check your lease for any early termination clauses or penalties
  • Use the official termination form for written notice and keep a dated copy for your records
  • Document any reasons, such as health concerns or landlord breaches
  • If you need help or face discrimination, contact tenant support agencies
If you need to break your lease early for legal reasons like safety or health, act promptly and keep written records. Seeking advice from the Residential Tenancies Office may help avoid unnecessary penalties.

For more about ending a rental agreement, see How to Properly End Your Rental Agreement as a Tenant.

Looking for a new place? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

For more information on tenant and landlord rights specific to your area, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon.

Frequently Asked Questions About Early Move-Out in Yukon

  1. What notice do I have to give my landlord if I want to move out early?
    In Yukon, most tenants must provide at least one full month's notice in writing, using the official form, with the notice ending at the end of a rental period.
  2. Can I break my lease early if my landlord isn’t making repairs?
    If the landlord is not meeting health or safety obligations, tenants may be able to end the agreement after following required notice procedures and contacting the Residential Tenancies Office for guidance.
  3. Will I lose my security deposit if I move out before my lease ends?
    You may lose all or part of your security deposit if you leave without proper notice or for reasons not covered by law. Proper process is important.
  4. Are there exceptions for leaving early due to discrimination or accessibility barriers?
    Yes. If you face discrimination or if your housing is not accessible and your landlord does not accommodate you, you may have grounds to leave early without penalty. Document your concerns and seek help from the Yukon Human Rights Commission.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

  • Know the required notice period and use the correct official form
  • Understand exceptions for issues like safety, health, or discrimination
  • Communicate early with your landlord and keep records
  • Seek assistance if your rights are not being respected

Following proper steps helps protect your deposit and avoid unnecessary penalties when ending your tenancy early.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

  1. Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon): Current text
  2. Residential Tenancies Office (Yukon): Official site
  3. Notice to Terminate a Tenancy by Tenant Form: PDF download

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