Top 50 Questions: Landlord Compliance & Penalties in Yukon

Landlord Compliance & Penalties Yukon published June 26, 2025 Flag of Yukon
What rules must my landlord follow under Yukon's rental laws?
Landlords must follow the Yukon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, covering repairs, notice periods, rent increases, and more.
What is the main law for rentals in Yukon?
The main law is the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon).
Who handles tenant-landlord disputes in Yukon?
The Yukon Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) handles these disputes.
What can I do if my landlord doesn’t do required repairs?
You can apply to the RTO to resolve the issue or for an order forcing repairs.
Can my landlord be penalized for not meeting legal duties?
Yes. The RTO can issue fines or orders for compliance if landlords break the law.
What counts as a landlord’s legal duty in Yukon?
Legal duties include maintaining the rental, providing proper notice, and following rent rules.
How do I file a complaint about my landlord?
Complete a Dispute Application Form and submit it to the RTO.
What proof should I gather if my landlord is not following the law?
Keep copies of all communication, photos, and any receipts or notices related to your issue.
Does my landlord need to provide proper notice before entering?
Yes, usually 24 hours’ written notice is required except in emergencies.
What happens if my landlord enters without permission?
You can file a complaint with the RTO, which may order penalties against your landlord.
Can my landlord raise rent without notice?
No, written notice of rent increase must be given at least 3 months in advance using the proper form.
What form must the landlord use to raise rent?
The Notice of Rent Increase must be used.
What if my landlord increases rent without the right notice or form?
The rent increase is invalid; report to the RTO for enforcement.
Can my landlord evict me without cause?
No, valid reasons and notice periods are required by law.
What is the penalty if the landlord gives an illegal eviction notice?
The notice can be cancelled and the landlord may face penalties from the RTO.
What if my landlord doesn’t return my security deposit?
You can apply to the RTO to order your deposit’s return and possible compensation.
Can the RTO charge my landlord a fine for not complying?
Yes, if the landlord breaks the Act, the RTO can order fines or compensation.
Where do I find the dispute application form?
Get it here on the Government of Yukon website.
What is the time limit for filing a complaint?
File as soon as possible; delays may affect your case’s outcome, but the Act does not set strict limits.
Do landlords have to give receipts for rent?
Yes, if you request it. Failure can be reported to the RTO.
Who pays for repairs if something breaks from regular use?
Landlords must repair items due to normal wear and tear.
Can a landlord evict me for reporting them?
No, retaliation evictions are illegal under Yukon's Act.
What if my landlord shuts off power or water?
Utility shutoffs are unlawful. File a complaint with the RTO immediately.
Can the RTO order my landlord to stop unlawful behaviour?
Yes, the RTO can issue stop orders and require compliance.
What’s the maximum penalty my landlord can receive?
Fines vary by offence. Serious/repeat violations can face higher financial penalties per the Act.
Do landlords have to follow housing health and safety rules?
Yes, and failure can lead to penalties and repair orders.
Is there a cost to file a complaint?
No, tenants are not charged for submitting a dispute application with the RTO.
How long does the RTO take to resolve complaints?
Timelines vary, but most issues are reviewed within weeks.
Do I need a lawyer to file a complaint?
No, tenants can file directly, but legal help is an option.
Can I be evicted if I complain about maintenance?
No. Landlords can’t evict for exercising your legal rights.
Can landlords retaliate against tenants after complaints?
Retaliation is illegal and can result in penalties for landlords.
What happens if the landlord doesn’t follow an RTO order?
Further penalties or enforcement actions can be taken.
Can I withhold rent if my landlord doesn’t do repairs?
No, but you can apply to the RTO for an order about repairs or compensation.
Is my landlord allowed to refuse repairs unless I pay more?
No. This is not permitted by the Act.
Is there a list of landlord offences and penalties?
The Act details offences and penalties, available here (sections 95–98).
Can I get compensation for landlord non-compliance?
Yes, the RTO can order compensation in certain cases.
My landlord keeps ignoring notices from the RTO. What can I do?
Inform the RTO; it can escalate enforcement.
Can a landlord ask tenants to pay for illegal penalties?
No, tenants cannot be forced to pay penalties owed by the landlord.
Who investigates landlord offences?
The RTO investigates offences under the Act.
What if my landlord threatens me over a complaint?
Threats break the law. Contact the RTO or RCMP if you feel unsafe.
Can the RTO inspect my unit?
Yes, if you file a complaint, an investigator can visit the premises.
What notice does the RTO give before a hearing?
Typically, both parties receive written notice of the date and time.
Can the RTO order my landlord to pay for emergency costs?
Yes, if landlord neglect caused the emergency.
Can my landlord charge me illegal fees?
No, only fees allowed under the Act are lawful.
What should I do if exposed to unsafe living conditions?
File a complaint with the RTO and contact Environmental Health if there are safety risks.
What if my landlord discriminates against me?
Discrimination is another legal matter. Contact the Yukon Human Rights Commission.
Are penalties made public if my landlord is fined?
Some RTO decisions may be published, but check with the RTO for details.
How does the RTO enforce penalties?
The RTO can impose orders, which may be enforced by the court if unpaid.
Will filing a complaint hurt my tenancy?
No, the Act protects tenants who assert their rights.
Can I withdraw my complaint after filing?
Yes. Notify the RTO as soon as possible if you wish to withdraw.
How do I know if my complaint was successful?
The RTO will issue a written decision summarizing the outcome.

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

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