How to File a Complaint with the ORT

The Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT), formerly known as the Rentalsman, is an agency independent of government that provides information about landlord and tenant rights and resolves disputes under The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006. It can adjudicate claims up to $30,000, though it doesn't cover commercial properties, short-term tourist accommodations, or certain facilities governed by other provincial acts.

To file with the ORT: create or log into a Saskatchewan Account and access the ORT's online portal, select "New Application," choose whether you're filing as a landlord or tenant and the type of application, enter your tenancy details and upload any supporting documents, submit it for staff review, and pay the non-refundable $50 filing fee. Different forms apply depending on the claim -- for example, security deposit disputes use different forms than a landlord's application for possession of the unit.

Hearings are generally conducted by phone. A hearing officer calls both parties at the phone numbers provided so each side can speak to the claims listed in the hearing notice. It's the applicant's own responsibility to monitor the status of their application through the portal.

Once the ORT issues a decision, there's a 30-day window to appeal. After that period, the party who was granted the order is responsible for enforcing it -- which can include registering it as a judgment with the Court of King's Bench if the other party doesn't comply voluntarily.