Reporting Non-Compliant Landlords in Yukon: A Tenant’s Guide

If you’re renting a home in Yukon and your landlord is not following the law—such as refusing essential repairs, entering without permission, or not returning your deposit—you have rights and options to protect yourself. The Yukon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act offers clear avenues for tenants to address landlord non-compliance, and it’s helpful to know the correct steps, official forms, and resources to use.

Understanding Landlord Responsibilities in Yukon

In Yukon, landlords must follow rules set by the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon) and related regulations. This means providing safe, livable housing, making required repairs, respecting your privacy, and dealing fairly with deposits and rent.

• Ensure the property meets health and safety standards
• Make timely repairs when you report urgent issues
• Respect your right to quiet enjoyment and give proper notice before entering your unit
• Return your security deposit within the legal timeframe, if you meet all obligations

For a deeper understanding of everyone's roles, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

What Counts as Landlord Non-Compliance?

Non-compliance means your landlord has broken the law or your tenancy agreement. Examples include:

• Ignoring needed repairs (e.g., heating or plumbing not working)
• Denying your legal rights (like privacy or notice before entering)
• Withholding your security deposit without cause
• Not addressing health or safety problems in your unit

It's important to keep records of all communications and issues, as they support your case if you need to make a formal complaint.

How to Report a Non-Compliant Landlord in Yukon

If you’ve tried to resolve the issue directly with your landlord and nothing has changed, you can make a formal complaint. Here are your options:

1. Contact the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO)

The Yukon Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) is the tribunal responsible for tenancy matters. They offer guidance, complaint resolution, and access to dispute forms.

2. Use the Right Forms and Follow Official Steps

To begin a formal dispute or complaint process, you’ll generally use the following forms:

• Tenant Application – Dispute Resolution (Form 1):
  Use this form to request a hearing for issues like repairs, return of security deposit, or breach of your rights.
  Access Form 1 and instructions at Yukon’s official site.
• For urgent repairs involving health and safety hazards, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for practical advice.

Example: If your landlord refuses to return a security deposit for no valid reason, fill out Form 1 and submit it, along with evidence (emails, lease, photos), to the RTO for a hearing.

3. Step-by-Step: Filing a Complaint or Dispute

• Download and carefully complete the Tenant Application – Dispute Resolution (Form 1)
• Gather all supporting documents (leases, photos, written requests, etc.)
• Submit your application and materials by mail, email, or in person to the Residential Tenancies Office
• Pay any applicable filing fee (check RTO website for latest costs and payment methods)
• Attend your scheduled hearing (by phone or in person) and present your case

For detailed guidance on Yukon landlord-tenant duties, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon.

What Happens Next?

After you file a complaint, the RTO will review your documents and arrange a dispute resolution hearing. Both you and your landlord will present your sides, and an official will make a binding decision. If the landlord is found to be non-compliant, they may face legal orders or fines ordering them to fix the problem or pay compensation.

Additional Tenant Resources

If you’re searching for a new place or want to know your options, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme—Canada’s best rental listings platform for every city and territory.

Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them

If you’ve encountered other problems—like overdue repairs or unresolved health issues—explore Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them for solutions and next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who handles complaints about landlords in Yukon?
   The Yukon Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) oversees complaints, dispute resolution, and enforcement of the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.
2. Is there a fee to file a complaint against a landlord?
   Yes, there is usually a small application fee for dispute resolution. Fee waivers are sometimes available; check the RTO website for current details.
3. What evidence should I submit when reporting my landlord?
   Submit any relevant items, including your lease, written requests or complaints, emails, repair photos, and records of discussions. These will help the RTO understand the situation.
4. Can I remain in my rental while a dispute is processed?
   In most cases, yes. Filing a complaint does not affect your right to stay in your home unless a separate lawful eviction order has been made.

Key Takeaways for Yukon Tenants

• Landlords in Yukon must follow the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.
• If your landlord is not meeting their obligations, document everything and try to resolve it directly first.
• You can file a formal complaint with the Residential Tenancies Office using the Tenant Application – Dispute Resolution (Form 1).

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Yukon Residential Tenancies Office – Forms, guidance, dispute resolution
• Phone: 867-667-5944 | Email: rto@yukon.ca
• See the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon page for more legal details
• Local tenant help: Yukon Legal Services Society (yukonlegalservices.ca)

---

1. Yukon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: Official Legislation
2. Residential Tenancies Office: Dispute Resolution and Forms

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