Tenant Rights for Newcomers and Refugees in Yukon: Legal Protections and Steps

Moving to Yukon as a newcomer or refugee means starting fresh in a safe, welcoming environment. Finding your first home to rent can be an exciting but sometimes confusing process—especially when you’re unfamiliar with local tenancy laws, legal rights, and landlord obligations. This comprehensive guide explains tenant rights and protections for newcomers and refugees renting in Yukon, practical information about starting a tenancy, and where to get help if you face issues.

Key Tenant Protections for Newcomers and Refugees in Yukon

In Yukon, all tenants—including newcomers, refugees, and recent immigrants—have the same legal rights and responsibilities under the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act. The Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) oversees rental disputes and enforces tenancy laws.^[1]

• Protection from discrimination: Landlords cannot refuse to rent to you because of your citizenship, race, refugee status, religion, or country of origin.
• Written rental agreements: Always get your lease terms in writing. This offers clear documentation and protects your rights.
• Legal deposits only: Landlords are only allowed to collect a security deposit and may not demand extra fees based on newcomer status.
• Privacy and quiet enjoyment: Your landlord must respect your privacy and provide a safe, habitable home.
• Right to repairs: All tenants are entitled to timely repairs and maintenance for essential services, like heat and water.

Understanding Deposits and Starting Your Tenancy

When moving to a new rental home, landlords may ask for a security deposit—sometimes called a damage deposit. By law, the deposit cannot exceed one month's rent and must be held in trust. Learn more about deposit rules in Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

Initial Inspections and Moving In

Before you move in, you and your landlord should complete a move-in inspection report. This protects you from being responsible for pre-existing damages. Use the official Move-In/Move-Out Condition Inspection Report form:

• Name: Move-In/Move-Out Condition Inspection Report (No standard number)
• When: When moving in (and again at the end of tenancy)
• How: Both you and the landlord should sign it; ask for a copy for your records
• Download from Yukon government

This step is crucial for all tenants, including newcomers navigating rental homes for the first time.

What Happens After Signing the Lease?

Once the rental agreement is complete, your responsibilities include paying rent on time, keeping the place clean, and reporting issues quickly. Get familiar with your next steps in What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

Dealing with Repairs, Health, and Safety

All tenants, including newcomers and refugees, have the right to safe and healthy housing. Landlords must keep your home in good repair and respond to essential repair requests—heat, running water, and functioning locks, for example. If repairs are not completed, you can file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Office.

Review details about common health and safety risks in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Filling Out Yukon Tenancy Forms: What Newcomers Should Know

Yukon uses official forms for various tenant situations. Some of the most relevant for newcomers and refugees include:

• Residential Tenancy Agreement: Use this for your primary rental contract. Download the standard Residential Tenancy Agreement form
• Notice to End the Tenancy: If you need to leave before your lease is over, submit a written "Tenant’s Notice to End the Tenancy" form. See the official tenant notice form here
• Repair Complaint Form: To request the RTO's help with unaddressed repairs, complete a "Tenant’s Application for Dispute Resolution." Find the form here

Action Steps Example: If your heat isn’t working and your landlord isn’t responding after 48 hours, fill out the "Application for Dispute Resolution," attach proof of your repair requests, and submit it in-person or by email to the Residential Tenancies Office.

Language Barriers and Support for Newcomers

If English is not your first language, you can request translation support from newcomer organizations in Yukon. Interpreters can also help when contacting the RTO.

General Tips for Safe Renting in Yukon

• Always get receipts for your rent and any deposits paid
• Store copies of all forms and agreements
• If you feel coerced or treated unfairly by a landlord, seek help from the RTO or a settlement agency
• Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings

For a territory-wide overview of tenant protections, check Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon.

Frequently Asked Questions about Tenancy Rights for Newcomers and Refugees

1. Can my landlord refuse to rent to me because I am a newcomer or refugee?
   No. Landlords in Yukon cannot discriminate based on race, national origin, or immigration status. All tenants are entitled to equal treatment under the law.
2. What official forms do I need to start a rental in Yukon?
   You should use the standard Residential Tenancy Agreement and a Move-In Inspection Report. Both forms protect your rights and outline key terms.
3. What should I do if my landlord will not fix urgent repairs?
   Ask for repairs in writing. If they aren’t addressed promptly, file an Application for Dispute Resolution with the Residential Tenancies Office.
4. Can I get help if I don’t speak English or French?
   Yes. Settlement agencies and the RTO can arrange translation support to assist with forms and communication, easing the process.
5. Where can I learn about my full rights as a tenant in Yukon?
   Visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon for a comprehensive summary of legal protections and obligations.

Conclusion: What Newcomers and Refugees Should Remember

• You have strong legal rights as a tenant in Yukon, regardless of your immigration status or language background.
• Request written agreements, keep records, and use official forms for protection.
• Support is available if you need help understanding tenancy laws or resolving disputes.

Settling into a rental home can feel overwhelming, but knowing your rights and available support will make your first Yukon tenancy smoother and safer.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Office (RTO): Call (867) 667-5944 or email rto@gov.yk.ca for official forms, dispute resolution, and complaints.
• Yukon Government settlement and newcomer services: Language support, advocacy, and connect with local resources.
• Multicultural Centre of Yukon (mcyukon.com): Cultural integration, tenant support, and translation assistance.
• Browse apartments for rent in Canada with Canada's best rental listings platform.

1. Residential Tenancies Office official government resource
2. Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon)
3. Application for Dispute Resolution form - Government of Yukon
4. Residential Tenancy Agreement form - Government of Yukon
5. Move-In/Move-Out Condition Inspection Report - Government of Yukon
6. Tenant Notice to End Tenancy form - Government of Yukon