The Eviction Process in Saskatchewan

Every eviction starts with a written notice that includes the current date, the legal name of the person giving it, the rental unit's address, the date the tenancy will end, and the grounds for ending it. The required notice period depends on the reason -- from immediate (for rent more than 15 days in arrears) up to two months (for owner or purchaser occupancy).

If the tenant doesn't move out by the date in the notice, and the matter isn't resolved directly, the landlord applies to the Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) for an order for possession of the rental unit, through the ORT's online portal, including a copy of the notice served and supporting evidence.

A hearing officer reviews the application. Hearings are typically conducted by phone, with the officer calling both the landlord and tenant at the numbers provided to let each side speak to the claims on the hearing notice. The officer then decides whether to order the tenancy ended.

If a tenant still doesn't leave after a possession order, the landlord cannot remove the tenant, their belongings, or change the locks themselves. Only a sheriff from the Court of King's Bench can remove a tenant, by enforcing a Writ of Possession issued through the ORT process. Any attempt by a landlord to force a tenant out otherwise -- including an illegal lockout -- should be reported to police.