Yukon Rent Deposits vs Security Deposits: Tenant Guide

Understanding the difference between rent deposits and security deposits is key for tenants in Yukon. Knowing what fees your landlord can legally charge protects you from disputes and unexpected costs.

Yukon Rules for Deposits: What’s Allowed?

In Yukon, the law clearly defines what types of deposits a landlord can collect from their tenants:

• Security Deposit: A sum paid by the tenant at the start of the tenancy, held by the landlord against possible damage (not for regular wear and tear) or outstanding rent.
• Rent Deposit: Yukon’s Residential Landlord and Tenant Act^[1] does not allow landlords to collect rent deposits in the way other provinces might.

This means your landlord may only collect one type of deposit—the security deposit—at the start of your lease, and not prepayment for future rent.

Security Deposit Limits and Rules

In Yukon, the maximum security deposit is one-half month’s rent. The landlord must:

• Collect the deposit when or after you sign the rental agreement
• Provide a receipt for your records
• Place the deposit in a trust account if required by the law

If you need more details on general deposit practices, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.

No Legal "Last Month’s Rent" Deposits

Some provinces permit a "last month’s rent" deposit, but Yukon does not allow this. Only the security deposit is permitted.

Getting Your Security Deposit Back

Your security deposit is returned at the end of your tenancy, provided:

• There is no damage beyond normal wear and tear
• Your rent and utility obligations are paid

The landlord has 15 days after the tenancy ends and you have provided a forwarding address to return your deposit.
If there are deductions, the landlord must give you an itemized list, in writing, of any amounts kept and the reasons why.

For step-by-step move-out advice, read How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.

Required Forms for Yukon Deposits

Know the official forms for Yukon tenancies:

• Move-In/Move-Out Condition Inspection Report: There is no mandatory government-issued form, but Yukon landlords and tenants are strongly encouraged to complete a written inspection report together at move-in and move-out. This protects both parties if there’s a deposit dispute. Download a sample template from Yukon.ca.
• Notice to End Tenancy (Form 1): If moving out, tenants must use Form 1 to properly notify their landlord. Fill it in, keep a copy, and deliver it according to the law.

For a full overview of what happens after you sign the lease, check What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.

What Happens If There’s a Dispute?

If you and your landlord disagree over a deposit—for example, if you’re not given your deposit back within 15 days—you can apply to:

• Yukon Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) for dispute resolution

The RTO is the official government body that resolves rental disputes, including security deposit issues, under the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

If you’re considering moving, remember you can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for secure, straightforward listings.

Learn more about your rights and responsibilities on the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon page.

FAQs: Deposits for Yukon Tenants

1. What is the maximum security deposit in Yukon?
   The maximum is one-half month’s rent, as set by the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.
2. Are rent deposits (e.g., last month's rent) legal in Yukon?
   No. Only a security deposit is permitted; landlords cannot collect pre-paid rent deposits.
3. How quickly must my landlord return my security deposit?
   Within 15 days after the tenancy ends and you have provided a forwarding address.
4. What can be deducted from my deposit?
   Your landlord can deduct for unpaid rent or damages beyond normal wear and tear, but must provide a written list of deductions.
5. What should I do if I don’t receive my deposit back?
   Contact the Residential Tenancies Office to begin dispute resolution.

Key Takeaways for Yukon Tenants

• Only security deposits (up to half a month’s rent) are allowed, not rent deposits.
• Ask for a receipt and document the rental unit’s condition at move-in.
• Your deposit must be returned within 15 days of the end of tenancy, minus any deductions explained in writing.

In short, knowing your rights around deposits helps you rent with more confidence and avoid unnecessary disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Yukon Residential Tenancies Office (RTO): For tenant/landlord disputes and official guidance, call 867-667-5944 or email residential.tenancies@gov.yk.ca.
• Dispute Resolution Information
• Download tenancy forms

1. Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Yukon)
2. Yukon Residential Tenancies Office
3. Yukon Tenancy Forms