Episode 167: Location-Specific Tenancy Guidance for Canadian Territory of Nunavut
Summary
Today’s location-specific episode features Canadian Territory of Nunavut. We explore the overview of the housing guiding document called Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act. Each of my location-specific podcasts is set up the same way answering the same four questions:
1) What are the basics of the Nunavut Residential Tenancies Act,
2) What are the nuances of this location – what is different that stands out?,
3) Some guidance about abandoned items left behind by a tenant in a rental in Canadian Territory of Nunavut,
4) Where to get help in your local area in Canadian Territory of Nunavut.
Then I’ll go through what I call my “Bingo Card” of standard items I see most often in tenancy laws in different locations.
This episode is NOT all inclusive – you must research further in your specific area including your County, Regional District, Parish, City or any other Governing Body that involves your rental location, but today’s episode will get you started!
This episode includes resources for Canadian Territory of Nunavut including:
RESIDENTIAL TENANCIES ACT, Official Consolidation of | Legislation
Nunavut Tenant Rights & Responsibilities: Complete Guide - tenantrights.ca
Listen to the full episode :
This Week’s Blog Post:
Starting with Nunavut’s Tenancy Act
Hi friends! I’m Dr. Jen, and in this episode of My Life as a Landlord, I’m diving into the tenancy laws of Nunavut. Like all of my location-specific episodes, I follow the same four-part framework: the basics of the Residential Tenancies Act, the unique nuances of the territory, what to do about abandoned items, and finally, where landlords can turn for help. Nunavut’s Residential Tenancies Act is just 58 pages long—short compared to other jurisdictions—but still detailed enough to give us a solid framework.
Leases, Deposits, and Inspections
In Nunavut, written leases are not strictly required, but I strongly recommend them to avoid confusion later. Move-in and move-out inspections are mandatory only if a security deposit is taken. Deposits are capped at one month’s rent for monthly rentals or one week’s rent for weekly rentals. Tenants can pay half up front and the remainder within three months. Landlords must return deposits within 10 days of move-out, including interest, and provide an itemized statement if deductions are made. Unlike other jurisdictions, there is no allowance for extra deposits like pet deposits—only a standard security deposit is legal.
Rent, Renewals, and Terminations
Rent increases in Nunavut are limited to once every 12 months with at least three months’ written notice, and there is no rent control beyond that. Tenancies can be weekly, monthly, or fixed-term. Fixed-term leases end abruptly unless renewed, but they can also roll into month-to-month arrangements if not renegotiated. Notices of termination must always be in writing, include the address, a clear end date, and a specific reason. Evictions must go through the rental officer and then the Nunavut Supreme Court, with sheriffs enforcing orders if tenants refuse to vacate.
Abandoned Items and Tenant Rights
Interestingly, Nunavut’s Residential Tenancies Act doesn’t spell out procedures for abandoned tenant property. Landlords are advised to contact the Nunavut Rental Office for guidance on inventory, storage, and disposal. Tenant rights documents also highlight rules on access—landlords must provide 24 hours’ written notice for entry, except in emergencies. Pets and smoking rules depend on the lease: if prohibited in writing, violations may lead to eviction.
Resources and Final Thoughts
For landlords in Nunavut, resources are limited but powerful. The Nunavut Rental Office provides mediation, dispute resolution, and guidance on the Act. Tenant rights documents also help clarify expectations, and I always recommend connecting with local landlord forums or social media groups.
I recorded this episode on my boat in Desolation Sound, British Columbia. Why? Because real estate takes you places. Where do you want real estate to take you? Join me next time for Episode 168, where we explore tenancy guidance in Quebec. I’ll see you there!