Lesson 4:

Leasing in Saskatchewan

In the vast landscape of Saskatchewan, leasing plays an integral role in both urban and rural settings, serving as a cornerstone for various commercial, residential, and agricultural activities. Understanding client leases within this province requires a comprehensive grasp of the distinct terms, conditions, and formalities unique to Saskatchewan’s legislative and market environment. From initiation to execution, the procedures of leasing in Saskatchewan ensure that both lessors and lessees are adequately protected, fostering a harmonious relationship based on trust, clarity, and legal adherence. As we delve deeper, we will unravel the intricacies of client leases and the systematic steps involved in the leasing process in this province. Watch the following video to learn more about Tenancy Agreements in Saskatchewan:

Verbal and Written Tenancy Agreements in Saskatchewan

When a tenant and landlord agree to a verbal tenancy, the landlord has certain obligations. Within 20 days from when the tenancy begins, the landlord needs to give the tenant specific contact information. This includes the landlord’s address, phone number, and an emergency contact number if it’s different. Plus, the tenant should also receive a copy of a document called “Schedule 1”.

For fixed-term tenancies, which have a set end date, there are some additional points to note. The written agreement must clearly state this end date. As the end date approaches, the landlord should inform the tenant at least two months in advance about whether they wish to renew the agreement, and they should use the official “Term Lease – Two Month Notice of Intention Form” to do this. If the landlord wants to renew, the tenant has a month to reply in writing. If the tenant doesn’t respond, they should move out when the tenancy ends.

Leasing Subsidy

The Saskatchewan Housing Benefit (SHB) is one part of a broader range of housing programs offered in Saskatchewan. It is a subsidy program that offers financial support to eligible low-income renters, helping them to manage the costs of their housing. The primary objective of the SHB is to provide assistance to households in need, ensuring they can find and sustain affordable housing. This benefit is instrumental in bridging the gap between the total rent and what a tenant can afford, effectively reducing housing costs for qualifying individuals and families.

If you have questions or need assistance with the application process, it’s advisable to contact the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation or your local housing authority. They can provide guidance, answer questions, and help ensure that your application is complete and accurate.

Programs Operating Under the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation (SHC)

Programs operating under the umbrella of the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation include The Seniors Housing Program, The Social Housing Program and The Affordable Housing Program. Each has its distinct goals, eligibility criteria, and application processes. However, they all share the overarching objective of ensuring Saskatchewan residents have access to affordable and suitable housing. Here is some more information on each of the programs:

1. Seniors Housing Program: The Seniors Housing Program in Saskatchewan is tailored for elderly citizens. It offers rental houses across communities, with a fixed rental price decided by the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation. This program also considers those with special accessibility needs, ensuring they get housing better suited for them than what might be typically available. If you’re 55 or older, legally in Canada, and can live independently (either on your own or with some support), you could qualify. Remember, though, they prioritize those in the direst need for housing, and tenants must pay a security deposit. If you’re interested, you can apply by filling out the Housing Application and contacting the local housing authority. For more specifics, the local housing authorities manage this program under the guidance of the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation.
2. Low Income Housing Program: The Social Housing Program is designed primarily for low-income households. It provides housing to those without the means to find suitable and affordable accommodation. Rent is determined at 30% of the household income, subject to certain boundaries, and housing is made available in over 300 communities in the province. Those 55 and older, families with children or dependents, and disabled individuals in severe housing need are prioritized. To qualify, applicants should be legally in Canada and have both income and assets below the program’s limits. Once again, the ability to live independently is a must, though support is recognized. Seniors not fitting the eligibility criteria may still find housing under other schemes. To delve deeper, there’s a comprehensive guide: the Social Housing Handbook.
3. Rental Housing in Rural and Northern Communities: The Affordable Housing Program aids those in smaller communities. It primarily offers rental options, and, much like the other programs, focuses on those with special accessibility requirements. Eligible candidates are those legally in Canada, excluding temporary visitors or foreign students. As with the other programs, tenants should be able to sustain independent living and are required to make a security deposit. For context, as of January 22, 2015, the Affordable Housing Program transitioned to the Social Housing Program in some of Saskatchewan’s larger centers.

For all these programs, applying involves completing the Housing Application and reaching out to the local housing authority. If you need a paper version or assistance with the process, the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation is available to help at 306-787-4177 or toll-free at 1-800-667-7567.