Who oversees rental issues in Yukon?
The Yukon Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) handles rental matters.
What law covers residential tenancies in Yukon?
The Residential Landlord and Tenant Act governs Yukon tenancies.
Do leases need to be in writing?
Written leases are recommended but verbal agreements are legal in Yukon.
What information must be in a lease?
Lease term, rent amount, parties' names, and rules must be included.
Can a landlord require a security deposit?
Yes, but it cannot exceed the equivalent of one month's rent.
How is a lease legally ended?
Proper written notice must be given based on the lease type and law.
How much notice must a tenant give to end a monthly lease?
At least one full month's written notice is required.
How much notice must a tenant give to end a weekly lease?
At least one full week's written notice is required.
Do tenants need a reason to end a fixed-term lease early?
Early ending usually requires landlord agreement or a legal reason.
Can a landlord increase rent anytime?
No, rent can only be increased once every 12 months with written notice.
How much notice is needed for rent increases?
Landlords must provide 90 days' written notice before increasing rent.
Is there a limit on rent increases?
No, Yukon does not have a maximum rent increase limit but rules still apply for notice and frequency.
What is the standard lease form in Yukon?
Yukon provides a Standard Residential Tenancy Agreement for landlords and tenants to use.
What form do I use to give notice as a tenant?
Use the Tenant's Notice to End Tenancy (Form 5) to legally provide notice.
When should I use Form 5?
Use Form 5 to officially end your lease—give proper notice and keep a copy.
What can I do if the landlord doesn’t return my deposit?
You can apply to the RTO using Application for Dispute Resolution (Form 15).
How quickly must a deposit be returned?
Within 15 days after the tenancy ends and keys are returned, unless there are deductions.
What if my lease says something different from the Act?
The Act overrides any lease terms that lower your legal rights.
Are landlords allowed to charge extra fees?
Only fees allowed by the Act are legal; others can be challenged with the RTO.
Do all adults have to sign the lease?
Yes, all adult tenants should sign to be protected and responsible.
Can landlords change a lease after signing?
Lease changes require agreement from both landlord and tenant.
Is subletting allowed in Yukon?
Tenants can only sublet with landlord’s written consent.
Can I get a copy of my lease?
Yes, landlords must provide you with a copy of the lease within 21 days.
Does a lease continue after it ends?
Leases convert to month-to-month unless notice is given or a new agreement is signed.
How do I dispute a landlord’s decision?
Apply for dispute resolution with the RTO using Form 15.
What information must landlords give tenants?
Their name, address, and a way to contact them must be provided.
Can a lease limit the number of occupants?
Yes, leases can set occupancy limits, but they must be reasonable.
Is insurance required by law?
Tenant insurance is not legally required in Yukon, but landlords can request it in the lease.
Can tenants have pets?
Only if your lease allows pets or the landlord agrees in writing.
Can a landlord enter my unit without notice?
No, landlords must give 24 hours' written notice except in emergencies.
What happens if I break my lease?
You may owe rent for the remaining term unless the unit is re-rented quickly.
How can I make a complaint about my lease?
File a dispute at the RTO using Form 15.
Do tenants have to pay for repairs?
Tenants only pay for damage they or their guests cause, not regular wear and tear.
What if the landlord wants to end my tenancy early?
The landlord must use the correct notice form and have a legal reason according to the Act.
Can rules be added to my lease after signing?
Not without your agreement and official documentation.
What if my lease is missing something important?
The Act may supply missing terms, but ask your landlord to clarify in writing.
Can I change my mind after signing a lease?
Once signed, the lease is binding unless both parties agree to release you.
Can the landlord require post-dated cheques?
Landlords can request, but you cannot be forced to provide post-dated cheques in Yukon.
What is a condition inspection report?
It documents the rental's condition at move-in and move-out; both parties should sign it.
Who keeps original lease documents?
Landlords usually keep originals, but tenants should keep copies.
What if repairs are not done?
Write to your landlord; if unresolved, you may apply to the RTO for help.
Is there a standard cleaning requirement on moving out?
Yes, leave the unit reasonably clean and in the same condition as move-in, minus normal wear and tear.
Can my lease say "no guests"?
Restrictions on guests must be reasonable under the Act.
Can a lease be signed electronically?
Yes, electronic signatures are valid in Yukon.
What happens if my landlord sells the property?
The new owner must follow your existing lease until it ends.
Do both parties need to agree to renew a lease?
Yes, renewals or changes require agreement; otherwise, leases become month-to-month.
What if I want to transfer my lease?
Lease assignments require landlord’s written consent.
Can landlords refuse to rent to me for any reason?
Landlords cannot discriminate on protected grounds (e.g. race, disability).
