Rent Control Exemptions in Yukon: Know Your Coverage

If you're a tenant in Yukon, you may have heard about rent control and limits on rent increases. But not every rental in Yukon is covered by these rules. This guide explains what rent control means in Yukon, who is exempt, and how you can protect yourself if your unit doesn't qualify for rent control protection.

What is Rent Control in Yukon?

In Yukon, rent control generally means there are rules that limit how much your landlord can raise the rent and how often increases can happen. These regulations are part of the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon)^[1]. The goal is to keep housing affordable and fair across the territory.

Who Oversees Residential Tenancies in Yukon?

All tenancy disputes, rent increase rules, and exemptions are handled by the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office^[2]. They provide resources, forms, and guidance for tenants and landlords.

Which Rentals Are Exempt from Rent Control?

Not every rental contract in Yukon is subject to rent control rules. The main exemptions include:

• New Construction and Recently Built Units: Units built and first occupied after January 31, 2021 are generally exempt from rent control for five years after they become available to tenants.
• Social and Non-Profit Housing: Housing subsidized by governments or operated by non-profits may have separate rent-setting rules and often fall outside standard rent control limits.
• Temporary or Seasonal Housing: Rentals specifically provided for seasonal workers or used only for short durations can also be exempt.
• Owner-Occupied Shared Housing: If you rent part of a home but share living space with the owner (such as a basement with a shared kitchen), you may not be covered under the Act.

Understanding these exemptions is important so you know what rent protections apply to your tenancy.

How Do Rent Increases Work in Yukon?

For tenancies that are not exempt, your landlord must follow these rules to raise your rent:

• Increase rents no more than once every 12 months.
• Give you proper written notice using the official Notice of Rent Increase (Form 2A) at least 90 days before the increase takes effect.
• The amount by which rent can be increased may be capped by government policy for protected units.

You can access Form 2A and other official forms on the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office Forms page. For example, if your annual lease is up for renewal and your landlord wishes to raise the rent, they must use Form 2A to provide notice, or the increase is not valid.

What if My Rental is Exempt from Rent Control?

If you live in an exempt unit (like a new build or social housing), your landlord generally can increase your rent without the standard limits. However, you are still entitled to the required notice, and your lease or agreement may outline additional terms.

For tips on managing your rent payments and understanding your rights, see Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

What Rights Do Tenants Have Outside Rent Control?

Even if rent control does not apply to your unit, you still have important rights under the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon):

• Protection against unlawful eviction
• The right to proper notice before rent increases or ending your tenancy
• Access to dispute resolution through the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office

If you have questions about all tenant and landlord rights, you can review Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon for a helpful overview.

Where Can I Find Rentals in Yukon?

Looking for your next rental home, or wondering what’s available across Canada? Houseme - your rental solution in Canada offers listings for apartments, condos, and houses nationwide, including in Yukon communities.

FAQ: Rent Control and Exemptions in Yukon

1. Are all rentals in Yukon subject to rent control?
   No, new buildings (first occupied after January 31, 2021) and government-subsidized/social housing are usually exempt.
2. How much notice does my landlord have to give for a rent increase?
   Unless you are in an exempt unit, landlords must give 90 days' written notice using Form 2A.
3. Can my landlord increase my rent multiple times in a year?
   For covered units, only one increase is allowed every 12 months.
4. If my rental is exempt, do I lose all my tenant rights?
   No, you still have important protections under Yukon's tenancy laws, such as notice requirements and access to dispute resolution.
5. Where can I get official forms for Yukon tenancy?
   Forms, including the Notice of Rent Increase, are available on the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office website.

Key Takeaways for Yukon Tenants

• Not all rentals in Yukon are protected by rent control; exemptions include new builds and certain subsidized housing.
• Even in exempt rentals, you have other tenant rights, including notice periods and protections from unlawful eviction.
• To dispute rent increases or seek help, contact the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office and keep records of all communications.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Government of Yukon: Renting, housing, and property – Information and forms for tenants and landlords.
• Yukon Residential Tenancies Office – File a dispute, get guidance, and access tenancy forms. Phone: (867) 667-5944. Email: rto@gov.yk.ca
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon – Full overview of tenant and landlord rules.

1. Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon) - full legislation text
2. Yukon Residential Tenancies Office (government site)