Renting Property in Saskatchewan
Renting property in Saskatchewan offers many advantages, including the ability to live in a variety of environments, from small towns to larger cities. The decision to rent a property for a long-term tenancy is a big one, so it is important to understand your rights and obligations as a tenant before signing the rental agreement.
In Saskatchewan, property rental agreements must follow the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA). This Act outlines the rights and responsibilities of both tenants and landlords. The RTA sets out the terms of the rental agreement and dictates how rents, deposits and repairs will be handled. Landlords are legally required to provide tenants with a copy of the RTA and the standard rental agreement form.
When it comes to rent prices, landlords must follow specific guidelines as outlined by the RTA. This includes maximum rent increases and prohibiting illegal deposits or surcharges. Landlords must also provide tenants with ninety-days written notice for any proposed rent increase.
What’s more, when landlords are offering a property for rent, they must ensure the building or unit is fit for human occupancy. This means providing proper heating and lighting, as well as insulated walls and a safe source of running water. Whether the unit immediately meets these requirements or not, landlords are legally obligated to remedy any issues in a timely manner.
Security deposits are an important part of the rental agreement. However, landlords can only charge certain amounts depending on the length of the lease and the type of unit. For example, landlords can charge no more than the equivalent of one month’s rent in a six-month tenancy, and no more than two weeks’ rent in a year-long tenancy. The security deposits must also be protected; the landlord is required to place the deposit money into an interest-bearing account with a financial institution, and any interest earned is the tenant’s.
Repairs and maintenance issues must also be handled by landlords. According to the RTA, tenants are only responsible for routine maintenance such as replacing light bulbs, while landlords are responsible for any major repairs, such as structural or cosmetic damage, or appliance repairs and replacement. Landlords must also address any issues related to health or safety.
Finally, the RTA also provides tenants with legal protections when it comes to evictions. Landlords must follow specific regulations, including providing written notice for tenants who are in violation of the rental agreement. Tenants who are being evicted due to the landlord’s own fault (e.g. failure to repair a unit) may be eligible for compensation.
Renting a property in Saskatchewan is a big decision, but it can also be very rewarding. By understanding the terms of the RTA, tenants can ensure their rights are being upheld in the rental agreement. This guarantees a secure and agreeable experience for both landlord and tenant.
