Top 50 Questions: Roommates & Shared Housing in Yukon

Do Yukon tenant laws apply to roommates sharing a rental?
Yes, the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (RLTA) applies if you are named on the lease.
Who handles tenant disputes in Yukon?
The Office of the Residential Tenancies (ORT Yukon).
What is the main law for renting in Yukon?
The Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (RLTA).
Do roommate agreements have legal power in Yukon?
They are not enforceable by the ORT but may be used as evidence in disputes.
Can my landlord evict me because of my roommate's actions?
Yes, if all tenants are on the lease, one person's breach can affect everyone.
Who is responsible for rent if a roommate moves out?
Every tenant named on the lease is fully responsible for rent to the landlord.
What if I want to add a new roommate?
Get landlord's written consent before adding a new person to the lease.
Can my roommate change the locks without telling the landlord?
No, lock changes must be approved by and coordinated with the landlord.
How do I remove a problematic roommate?
Only the landlord can formally end a tenancy agreement; consider talking to the landlord or applying to the ORT.
Can my landlord refuse a new roommate?
Yes, landlords must approve changes to the occupancy of the unit.
Do all roommates have to sign the tenancy agreement?
It is best if all roommates sign so everyone is legally responsible.
Can I be evicted without my roommate if we're both on the lease?
Normally, eviction applies to all tenants named on the lease together.
What should I do if my roommate doesn't pay their share of rent?
Pay the full rent to avoid eviction. Then seek reimbursement from your roommate privately or through small claims court.
What happens to the security deposit if a roommate leaves?
The landlord deals with the entire group for deposits; roommates must settle any parts privately.
Do I need my landlord's permission to sublet to a roommate?
Yes, written consent from your landlord is required for subletting.
Is there a minimum notice when a roommate moves out?
No law covers notice between roommates; discuss with your roommate and review any agreement between you.
What should a written roommate agreement include?
Rent split, bills, chores, guests, quiet hours, damages, and notice requirements.
How do I get my security deposit back if a roommate damaged the property?
The landlord may deduct from the deposit. Roommates must settle differences between themselves.
Can I exclude my roommate from using common areas?
No, unless your agreement says otherwise, all tenants can use common areas equally.
Does the landlord have to approve guests who stay overnight?
Guests are allowed, but for long-term stays, the landlord may request approval if occupancy changes.
Are roommate conflicts handled by the Office of Residential Tenancies?
No, they only resolve disputes between tenants and landlords, not between roommates.
What if my roommate threatens or harasses me?
Contact local RCMP for safety issues, and tell your landlord if it affects your tenancy.
Can I get a new lease if my roommate moves out?
You must request it from your landlord. It is not automatic.
Can my landlord raise the rent because there are more roommates?
Only if allowed by law and with proper notice. See the RLTA for allowable increases.
Do cleaning and damages by a roommate affect my tenancy?
Yes, all tenants are jointly responsible for damages and cleanliness in shared rentals.
Are single-room renters covered by Yukon tenancy laws?
Only if you rent a self-contained unit with private kitchen and bathroom.
What notice is needed for a landlord to evict all roommates?
Written notice under the RLTA, using the official eviction notice forms.
Can my landlord ban me from having roommates?
Only if your lease says so, or if local bylaws/occupancy limits are exceeded.
If my roommate damages the rental, am I liable?
Yes, all tenants on the lease may be held responsible by the landlord.
Can the landlord refuse to return my deposit if my roommate owes damages?
Yes, the landlord can claim the whole deposit against the group for unpaid rent or damages.
How do I end my liability if I move out but my roommates stay?
Officially remove your name from the lease with landlord approval. Submit a Notice of Termination for Your Tenancy (see RLTA forms).
What form do I need to dispute an eviction?
Use the Application for Dispute Resolution (Form RT-09).
How do I apply for dispute resolution in Yukon?
File Form RT-09 with the ORT. Fill in details about your dispute and submit as per instructions (instructions).
Can the landlord evict individual roommates?
No, eviction applies to the tenancy, not individual tenants, unless agreed upon by all parties.
Is a verbal agreement with a roommate valid in Yukon?
Yes, but it is much safer to have everything in writing to avoid disputes.
Do I need to notify my landlord if my roommate moves out?
Yes, inform the landlord of any changes in occupants.
Does each roommate need tenant insurance?
It is recommended, but not legally required. Shared or separate coverage is possible.
How much notice does a landlord need to enter a shared rental?
24 hours written notice, except for emergencies, applies to all tenants.
Who gets the tax receipt for rent paid?
The landlord provides it to those who pay rent directly; clarify amongst roommates.
Am I responsible if my roommate skips out on utility bills?
Yes, if your name is on the bill, you are responsible for full payment.
What if my roommate's pet causes problems?
All tenants may be liable for damages or lease violations caused by the pet, if named on the lease.
Can my roommate kick me out?
Only the landlord can formally remove a tenant named on the lease.
Can I prevent a roommate from inviting guests?
You can set house rules in your agreement; otherwise, everyone has the right to invite guests.
Does Yukon have specific forms for roommates?
No, forms are for landlord-tenant matters. Use the Application for Dispute Resolution if needed.
Where can I get tenant forms for Yukon?
Can a roommate demand I move out if they're the primary renter?
Only if the landlord agrees and you are not named on the lease.
Can I sue my roommate for unpaid rent?
Yes, through Small Claims Court for your share, not via the ORT.
Can the landlord increase my rent if my roommate leaves?
Only with proper notice as set out in the RLTA; check your lease terms.
How do I formally move out if I'm not on the lease?
Provide notice to your roommates according to your agreement, but no official government form is needed.
Can the landlord limit how many people live in a rental?
Yes, occupancy limits must meet local bylaws and lease terms.
Are shared housing disputes hard to resolve legally?
Yes, the ORT only covers landlord-tenant disputes, not those between roommates, so consider mediation.
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.