Yukon Tenant Rights: When Locks on Windows and Doors Fail

Security concerns are a top priority for tenants in Yukon. If your windows or doors don't lock properly, it's important to know your rights under Yukon law and the steps you can take to stay safe. This guide explains your legal protections, your landlord’s responsibilities, and what actions to take if your locks are not working as they should.

Your Right to a Secure Home in Yukon

Under the Yukon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act¹, tenants have the right to live in a rental home that is safe and secure. Functioning locks on doors and windows are not just a convenience—they are a basic safety requirement. Landlords are legally required to ensure all windows and doors can be locked properly when a tenancy begins and throughout your rental term.

What Is the Landlord Responsible For?

• Ensuring windows and exterior doors have working locks at the start of your tenancy
• Repairing or replacing broken or faulty locks quickly when notified
• Providing keys—at no charge—to all tenants named on the agreement

If a lock stops working due to normal wear and tear, the landlord must repair or replace it. Tenants should not be charged for these essential repairs unless intentional damage or negligence can be proven.

If Your Locks Don’t Work: Steps You Should Take

Broken locks can make you feel unsafe. Here are actionable steps if you discover a problem with your window or door locks:

• Notify your landlord in writing as soon as you notice the issue. Keep a copy for your records.
• Describe which locks are not working and any security concerns you have (e.g., ground-floor windows).
• If your landlord does not respond or make repairs, consider sending a second, formal written request.
• If the problem puts your safety at immediate risk, this may be considered an emergency repair. You can contact the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office for advice or next steps.

Routine and Emergency Repairs: What’s the Difference?

In Yukon, repair issues are divided into two categories:

• Routine repairs: Minor issues that do not threaten health or safety, like a sticky door handle.
• Emergency repairs: Situations that impact your safety or security, such as a broken exterior door lock or windows that cannot be secured.

When a security issue is urgent, your landlord must act without unreasonable delay. You can read more in Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities.

Official Forms and Complaint Process

If you cannot resolve the issue directly, you can apply for dispute resolution at the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office.

• Application for Dispute Resolution (Form):
  • Used when you need an official decision regarding repairs, landlord inaction, or other tenancy issues.
  • Download and instructions on the Yukon government website
  • Example: If your landlord refuses to repair a broken window lock and you feel unsafe, fill out the form to request a hearing.

Inspections and Preventing Future Issues

When you first move in, an initial inspection helps confirm the condition of locks and security features. Document any problems right away. Learn more in Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

Health and Safety Considerations

Locks that do not function can expose you to health and safety risks, especially in extreme climates like Yukon’s. For further information, visit Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

For tenants searching for safe and secure homes—whether in Yukon or across the country—you can Browse apartments for rent in Canada using Houseme’s verified listings and security filters.

For more on your local tenant rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Yukon.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What can I do if my landlord refuses to fix a broken lock?
   If your landlord does not respond to requests, you can apply for dispute resolution at the Yukon Residential Tenancies Office. For urgent security risks, you may arrange emergency repairs and recover the cost, but always document your actions and consult the tribunal first.
2. Who pays for lock repairs in Yukon rental homes?
   Landlords must pay for repairs due to normal wear, faulty mechanisms, or broken locks unless there is clear evidence the tenant caused the damage.
3. What if a window is stuck but technically locks—does my landlord need to fix it?
   If the window is stuck shut or cannot be closed and locked properly, it is a safety issue and the landlord must repair it to restore security and proper function.
4. Can my landlord change my locks without notice?
   No, landlords must not change locks or restrict access without providing new keys and advance notice as required by law.
5. Should I check door and window locks before moving into a new unit?
   Yes, always inspect all locks and document any concerns—this ensures the unit is safe and avoids disputes later.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• You have the right to working door and window locks for your safety in Yukon rentals.
• Landlords are required to repair or replace defective locks when notified.
• Emergency safety concerns should be addressed without delay—know your direct complaint options.

Tenants should always document repair requests in writing and seek early support if their landlord does not respond.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Yukon Residential Tenancies Office – Official guidance, forms, dispute applications, and contact information
• Yukon Housing and Property – Housing support programs and regulations
• Download Application for Dispute Resolution Form

1. Yukon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – full text
2. Yukon Residential Tenancies Office – official homepage