No. A Saskatchewan landlord cannot charge a rental application fee. The Act bans charging anyone for accepting or processing a tenancy application, for checking whether an applicant is suitable, or for accepting a person as a tenant (Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, s.23).
This FAQ is for Saskatchewan renters looking at listings. For your rights once you move in, see Saskatchewan Tenant Rights: A Complete Guide.
What exactly does the ban cover?
Section 23 lists four things a landlord must not charge for:
- accepting an application for a tenancy;
- processing an application;
- investigating an applicant's suitability as a tenant, which covers screening such as reference or credit checks;
- accepting a person as a tenant.
Calling it an "admin fee", "screening fee" or "move-in fee" does not change what it is paying for.
What can a landlord collect from a new tenant?
A security deposit of up to one month's rent, with no more than half due at signing and the rest within two months after you move in (s.25(1), s.26(4)), and the rent itself. See Saskatchewan Security Deposits.
Are there any fees the Act does allow?
One small one later in a tenancy: a landlord may charge up to $20 for considering, investigating or consenting to an assignment of the lease, or a sublet under a fixed-term lease (Regulations s.8).
Frequently asked questions
I already paid an application fee. What now?
Ask the landlord in writing for a refund and quote s.23. If you became the tenant and it is not resolved, you can apply to the Office of Residential Tenancies for an order, within one year (s.70, s.71.1). If you were not accepted, call the ORT at 1-888-215-2222 to ask about your options.
Can a landlord ask for references or a credit check?
The Act does not stop a landlord from checking. It stops them from charging you for it (s.23(c)).
Does this apply to every rental?
It applies to tenancies under the Act. Some housing is outside the ORT, such as short hotel or motel stays, emergency shelters and accommodation provided by an educational institution (saskatchewan.ca, Office of Residential Tenancies).
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