Major repairs can force renters in Yukon to leave their home temporarily. This guide explains tenant rights and practical steps for temporary relocation when repairs affect habitability or safety, covering notice requirements, who pays for alternate housing, how to document damage and costs, what to do about rent reduction or compensation, and how to apply to the Residential Tenancies Office if you cannot reach an agreement. It also explains common forms and timelines so you can act quickly and preserve your rights. The advice is for renters who need clear, step-by-step information on relocation logistics, moving costs, and how to stay safe and legally protected while work is completed.
When major repairs may require temporary relocation
Temporary relocation is usually needed when repairs make a unit unsafe or uninhabitable — for example, a loss of heat, extensive water damage, or structural work that prevents safe use of rooms. Talk with your landlord early about the scope and expected schedule for repairs, and request written confirmation of timelines and any offers to cover temporary housing or moving costs.
What to expect from your landlord
Landlords are expected to maintain habitability and follow notice and entry rules. In Yukon, file a complaint or apply for dispute resolution with the Residential Tenancies Office if you cannot resolve relocation, temporary housing costs, or rent adjustments directly with your landlord[1].
Common landlord responsibilities
- Make necessary repairs in a timely and professional manner.
- Provide proper written notices about entry times and the nature of work.
- Discuss who will pay for reasonable temporary housing and moving expenses.
Practical steps for tenants
- Document the problem with dated photos, videos, and notes about when the issue started and how it affects habitability.
- Tell your landlord in writing about the problem and request a timeline and plan for temporary relocation, including who will pay for lodging and moving costs.
- Keep all receipts for temporary accommodation, transportation and storage so you can request reimbursement or compensation.
- If repairs are urgent or an emergency, ask for immediate measures to make the unit safe or for a clear relocation plan; check emergency repair guidance for tenants.
- If you cannot agree, contact the Residential Tenancies Office to learn about dispute-resolution options and required application steps[1].
Finding temporary accommodation and moving help
When you must move temporarily, consider affordable short-term stays, staying with family, or booking a short-term rental. For help searching rentals across Canada, try Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to compare options and map-based listings while repairs are underway.
Notices, timelines, and forms
Know the notice timelines that apply to entry for repairs and any formal forms for dispute resolution. If you need to file an application with the Residential Tenancies Office, use the official application form on the Yukon government site and follow the filing instructions closely[3]. The Residential Landlord and Tenant Act sets out the rights and obligations that underlie any claim[2].
How to present costs and evidence
- Organize receipts, photos, and a clear log of dates and impacts.
- Send a concise written request to the landlord summarizing costs and your preferred remedy (reimbursement, rent reduction, or relocation reimbursement).
- Keep copies of any formal responses and service attempts by phone or email for later reference.
When to apply for dispute resolution
If your landlord refuses to pay reasonable temporary housing costs, denies habitability problems, or you disagree about timelines, apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for dispute resolution. The Office can order compensation, repair timelines, or other remedies under the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act[1][2].
Additional tenant resources
Read these practical guides on repairs and emergencies for more detail:
- Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities
- Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities
FAQ
- Do I have to move if my unit needs major repairs?
- Not always; you must move if the unit is unsafe or uninhabitable. Ask your landlord for a written timeline and discuss temporary housing options or compensation before leaving.
- Who pays for temporary housing during repairs?
- Often the landlord pays if repairs make the unit uninhabitable. If you disagree, keep receipts and apply to the Residential Tenancies Office for a decision.
- How do I apply for dispute resolution in Yukon?
- Contact the Residential Tenancies Office, complete the official application form, include evidence and receipts, and file according to the Office's instructions to start the dispute process.
How-To
- Document the issue with photos, videos and a dated log of events and health or safety impacts.
- Write to your landlord describing the problem, request relocation or repairs, and ask for written confirmation of timelines.
- Save all receipts for temporary housing, transportation and storage; request reimbursement in writing from the landlord.
- Contact the Residential Tenancies Office for guidance if the landlord does not respond or refuses reasonable compensation.
- Complete and submit the official application form to the Residential Tenancies Office with your evidence and proof of delivery.
- Attend any scheduled hearing or mediation with copies of your documentation and a clear summary of the remedy you seek.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Office (Yukon)
- Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon)
- Residential Tenancies Office — Forms and guides
