Is there a limit on how much rent can be increased?
Yukon does not have provincial rent control. Landlords can set the increase, but it must be reasonable.
If you think a proposed rent increase is excessive, ask your landlord for a written explanation of the basis for the amount and compare it to your lease terms. You can also dispute the increase through the Residential Tenancies Office if you believe it is unfair.
What law protects tenants in Yukon?
The Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon) covers tenant and landlord rights.
How much notice is needed for a rent increase?
Landlords must give at least 3 months' written notice for rent increases.
Can rent be increased during a fixed-term lease?
No, rent cannot be increased until the fixed-term lease ends.
How often can my landlord increase my rent?
Rent can only be increased once every 12 months.
Is there a limit on how much rent can be increased?
Yukon does not have provincial rent control. Landlords can set the increase, but it must be reasonable.
What happens if the landlord increases rent without proper notice?
The increase is not valid if proper notice wasn’t given in writing at least 3 months in advance.
If you receive an increased rent without proper written notice, it may be invalid. Keep the notice date and timing, and you can challenge it with the Residential Tenancies Office.
Do I have to pay a security deposit in Yukon?
Security deposits are allowed but cannot exceed one month's rent.
Can my landlord ask for a pet deposit?
Yes, a pet deposit of up to one month's rent is allowed if you have a pet.
Do I pay both a security deposit and a pet deposit?
Yes, each can be up to one month's rent, but only if you have a pet.
When should my security deposit be returned?
Landlords must return your deposit within 15 days after you move out, minus lawful deductions.
What can be deducted from my security deposit?
Only for unpaid rent, damages beyond normal wear, or cleaning costs.
What is considered normal wear and tear?
Reasonable deterioration from ordinary use, not damage caused by neglect or carelessness.
Must I get a receipt for my deposit?
Yes, landlords must provide a written receipt for any deposit received.
What do I do if my landlord does not return my deposit?
File an application with the Residential Tenancies Office. Start a dispute.
Gather your lease, move-in/check-in report, deposit receipt, and any communications, then submit your dispute application to the Residential Tenancies Office with the deadline details.
How do I dispute a rent increase?
Submit an Application for Dispute Resolution to the Residential Tenancies Office. Form details.
Can my landlord charge a non-refundable cleaning fee?
No, only lawful deductions for cleaning can be made from your security deposit after you move out.
Must the landlord give written notice for rent changes?
Yes, all rent changes must be provided in writing at least 3 months in advance.
What forms are required for a rent increase?
Landlords must use a written Rent Increase Notice. No official number, but notice must be signed and dated. Details.
How do I give notice when ending my tenancy?
Tenants must provide at least one full rental period's written notice, usually one month. Notice details.
Can my landlord demand post-dated cheques for rent?
No, the landlord cannot require post-dated cheques as a condition of tenancy.
Is my rent late if my cheque is postmarked on the due date?
Rent must be received by the due date, not just mailed, to be on time.
What happens if I pay my rent late?
Landlords may charge late fees if it is in the agreement and may give notice for repeated late payments.
Are there limits to late fees?
Late fees must be reasonable and specified in the rental agreement.
If I can't pay rent, what should I do?
Tell your landlord as soon as possible, and look for resources or emergency assistance programs.
When can a landlord evict me for non-payment of rent?
Landlords must give a written Notice to Terminate after rent is overdue; you may have time to pay and avoid eviction.
Can a landlord ask for more rent if someone moves in with me?
Only if the lease agreement allows for it, and only with proper written notice and reason.
Do I pay rent if my unit is uninhabitable?
No, you may not be required to pay rent if your unit is unsafe or uninhabitable; contact the Tenancies Office for help.
Document unsafe conditions with dates and photos and inform your landlord in writing. If the landlord doesn’t fix the issue promptly, contact the Tenancies Office for guidance and potential remedies.
Can a landlord change the date that rent is due?
Only if both you and the landlord agree in writing.
What if I overpaid my rent?
Ask your landlord in writing to refund the extra amount or credit it to future rent.
Do landlords have to provide rent receipts every month?
Yes, if requested, landlords must provide receipts for all rent payments.
Am I allowed to withhold rent if repairs aren’t done?
No, withholding rent is not allowed. Apply to the Tenancies Office for help instead.
Can my landlord demand cash payments only?
Landlords must accept reasonable methods of payment like cheque or money order.
Can my deposit be used for the last month’s rent?
Only if both you and the landlord agree in writing.
What if my landlord refuses to give a receipt for my rent?
Remind your landlord of their legal duty. If refused, you can apply for dispute resolution.
Is rent different for subsidized housing?
Subsidized housing may have different rent rules. Contact your program provider or Yukon Housing Corporation for details.
How do I document the rental unit's condition on move-in?
Complete a move-in inspection report with your landlord. Download template.
Can I break my lease if rent is raised illegally?
Contact the Residential Tenancies Office for guidance before taking action.
What proof should I keep for rent payments?
Keep receipts, bank statements, or copies of cheques for all payments made.
If I move before the end of my lease, do I owe rent?
You may be responsible for rent until the unit is re-rented or the lease ends.
Who pays utilities—me or the landlord?
Check your lease. It must state who is responsible for which utilities.
If I damage the rental unit, will my deposit cover repairs?
Yes, but only up to the amount of your deposit. You must pay any extra costs.
Can the landlord increase a pet deposit during tenancy?
Only if you acquire a new pet and didn’t pay a pet deposit at move-in.
How do I apply to dispute a deposit issue?
Use the Application for Dispute Resolution. Download form.
Who do I contact for rent or deposit disputes?
The Residential Tenancies Office: Contact details.
How long must I keep my rent receipts?
Keep them for at least 2 years or for as long as you live in the unit, whichever is longer.
Can I request my deposit to be paid back by e-transfer?
Yes, you can make this request. The landlord should pay you promptly in an agreed-upon way.
What happens if the landlord sells the property?
Your tenancy continues, and your deposit is transferred to the new owner.
Who holds my security deposit during tenancy?
The landlord holds the deposit and is responsible for its return at end of tenancy.
Do I have to fill out any forms to get my deposit back?
No, but providing your forwarding address and written request is a good idea.
What is the Residential Tenancies Office contact info?
Office of Residential Tenancies, Government of Yukon.
Where can I get tenancy forms?
All official forms are available at the Yukon government’s residential tenancies webpage.
