If your rental in Yukon becomes unsafe or uninhabitable because of damage, you have practical steps and rights to protect your health and finances. This plain-language guide explains what “temporary housing” can mean, how to document damage, when a landlord must act, and how to seek help from Yukon authorities. It is written for tenants and renters who need clear next steps about repairs, temporary relocation, and applications to the residential tenancy office. Where helpful, this article points to official forms, tribunal contacts and tenant-focused resources so you can act confidently and protect your rights while the unit is repaired.
When is a unit "uninhabitable"?
Uninhabitable generally means the rental cannot safely be lived in: no heat in winter, major water damage, dangerous mould, structural collapse risk, or loss of essential services. If the damage poses a health or safety risk, you should tell your landlord immediately and document the condition with photos and notes.
What landlords in Yukon must do
Under Yukon tenancy rules, landlords must ensure units meet basic habitability standards and carry out necessary repairs in a reasonable time. If the unit is unsafe, a landlord may need to arrange temporary housing, pay reasonable accommodation costs, or provide a rent reduction while repairs proceed. For the exact statute and dispute process see the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act[1] and the Residential Tenancies Office pages[2].
Examples of landlord actions
- Arrange emergency repairs or boarding if the unit poses an immediate danger.
- Cover reasonable temporary accommodation costs when the landlord is responsible for the damage.
- Keep records of repair timelines, invoices and communications relating to the damage.
What tenants should do right away
- Call your landlord or property manager immediately to report the damage and request urgent action.
- Take clear photos and videos of damage and note dates and times.
- Ask for written confirmation of the landlord's repair plan and anticipated timelines.
- Keep all receipts for temporary accommodation, food or emergency purchases related to displacement.
Temporary housing: what it can legally include
Temporary housing can be a hotel, short-term rental, or another unit provided by the landlord. What the landlord must pay depends on the cause of damage and whether the landlord is legally responsible. If damage results from the landlord's failure to maintain the property, tenants can expect the landlord to cover reasonable costs or provide comparable accommodation. If damage was caused by a tenant or a third party, responsibility may differ.
Payments and rent during displacement
- Discuss whether rent continues, is reduced, or is suspended while the unit is uninhabitable.
- Ask for written agreement on compensation or rent adjustment to avoid future disputes.
When to apply to the Residential Tenancies Office
If you and your landlord cannot agree on temporary housing, payment of costs, or repair timelines, you can apply to the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office for dispute resolution. Use the official application or dispute form and include your evidence: photos, receipts, communications and any written repair plans. The Offices and forms explain how to request a hearing and what supporting documents to submit[3].
Practical tenant resources
For general safety and habitability guidance, review Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting and local Yukon facts at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon. To find short-term options while you relocate, consider searching listings: Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
FAQ
- Who pays for temporary housing if my unit is deemed uninhabitable?
- The party responsible depends on the cause. If the landlord's neglect caused the condition, they are usually responsible for reasonable temporary housing costs; if a tenant or third party caused the damage, the tenant may be responsible. If you disagree, apply to the Residential Tenancies Office.
- How long do I have to wait for repairs?
- Landlords must make repairs within a reasonable time depending on urgency. Emergency issues like no heat in winter require immediate action; non-urgent repairs are handled within a reasonable, agreed timeframe.
- Can I arrange my own temporary housing and seek reimbursement?
- Yes, keep all receipts and written communication. If the landlord agrees to reimburse, get that in writing. If denied, you can file an application with the Residential Tenancies Office including receipts as evidence.
How-To
- Call your landlord immediately and describe the damage, asking for an emergency response.
- Photograph and video the damage, and write a short log with dates and times.
- Request written confirmation of repair plans and any offer of temporary housing from the landlord.
- If you secure temporary housing, keep all receipts and communicate cost arrangements in writing.
- Complete and submit the official application to the Residential Tenancies Office if you cannot reach agreement, attaching evidence.
- Attend any scheduled hearings and bring originals and copies of your photos, receipts and communications.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Office (Yukon)
- Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon)
- Residential tenancy forms and guides (Yukon)
