Episode 147: Location-Specific Tenancy Guidance for Province of Saskatchewan
Summary
Today’s location-specific episode features the Canadian Province of Saskatchewan. We explore the overview of the housing guiding document called The Residential Tenancies of Saskatchewan.
Each of my location-specific podcasts is set up the same way answering the same four questions:
1) What are the basics of the Residential Tenancies of Saskatchewan
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 Province of Saskatchewan
4) Where to get help in your local area in Canadian Province of Saskatchewan.
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 Province of Saskatchewan including:
The Residential Tenancies of Saskatchewan Tenancy Agreements | Residential Renting and Leasing | Government of Saskatchewan
The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 https://publications.saskatchewan.ca/api/v1/products/23011/formats/29464/download
The Residential Tenancies Regulations, 2007 https://publications.saskatchewan.ca/api/v1/products/23014/formats/29469/download
Landlords, Tenants, and Housing Discrimination - Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission
Office of Residential Tenancies in Saskatchewan: 888-215-2222 or ORT@gov.sk.ca
Listen to the full episode :
This Week’s Blog Post:
Navigating Saskatchewan’s Tenancy Act
Hi friends! I’m Dr. Jen, and in this episode of My Life as a Landlord, we’re diving into the province of Saskatchewan. Every location-specific episode I do follows the same framework: the basics of the local Residential Tenancies Act, unique nuances, how to handle abandoned items, and where landlords can find help. Saskatchewan has a lot of structure in place—detailed rules, clear requirements, and an impressive set of resources including online portals and YouTube videos created by the Office of Residential Tenancies. But like every place, it also has its quirks.
Written Leases, Rent Increases, and Membership Perks
Let’s start with the basics. Written leases are a must in Saskatchewan, and landlords must provide a copy within 20 days of the tenancy start. Fixed-term tenancies require a clearly defined end date, and if the landlord doesn't plan to renew, notice must be given at least two months prior to the lease ending. One unique rule? Rent increases vary depending on whether you’re a member of a recognized landlord association. If you are, you only need to give six months’ notice. If not, it’s twelve. That’s a great incentive to stay active and educated in the landlord community.
Human Rights, Repairs, and Notice Rules
The province places strong emphasis on human rights and accommodations. Service animals must be allowed, even in pet-free buildings. Tenants are required to maintain the property in a reasonably clean condition and repair any damage beyond normal wear and tear. Notice of entry rules are strict: you must give between 24 hours and 7 days' written notice, provide a reason, and specify a 4-hour window between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. For showings, just two hours’ notice is required, but you can’t enter on Sundays or religious worship days. Saskatchewan is big on clarity and fairness.
Abandoned Items and Legal Procedures
If a tenant leaves behind items worth more than $1,500, landlords must apply for a Property Disposition Order through the Office of Residential Tenancies. You can't simply dispose of or sell abandoned property without legal approval. For lower-value items, landlords still must demonstrate good faith in trying to contact the tenant, and detailed inventories are expected. There are even online tools and portals to manage all of this, which makes compliance a lot more straightforward—but also more bureaucratic if you’re unprepared.
Resources and Final Thoughts
Saskatchewan landlords have a wealth of resources at their fingertips—from legal aid and the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission to the Office of Residential Tenancies’ detailed website. There are forms, videos in multiple languages, and real people you can call or email. If you’re unsure, pick up the phone or get into the room with other landlords. You can find support at local meetups or through Facebook and LinkedIn groups. This episode was recorded from Maui, Hawaii. Why? Because real estate takes you places. Where do you want real estate to take you?
Join me in the next episode—already live—where we head to the state of Maine. I’ll see you there!