This story was originally published by Aaron Walker in the Moose Jaw Express.

LEAP program aims to reduce landlord-tenant disputes

LEAP is designed to improve legal understanding, reduce disputes, and promote professionalism in the rental housing sector.
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Landon Field, CEO of Rental Housing Saskatchewan, attends the official launch of the new Landlord LEAP program at the Temple Gardens Hotel & Spa mezzanine in Moose Jaw recently.

MOOSE JAW — Landlords across Saskatchewan will soon have a new tool to help navigate the province’s rental laws, thanks to a first-of-its-kind legal education program officially announced in Moose Jaw recently.

Held in the mezzanine at Temple Gardens Hotel & Spa, the announcement marked the provincial debut of Landlord LEAP (Legal Education Assistance Program), an initiative spearheaded by Rental Housing Saskatchewan (RHSK). The program is designed to improve legal understanding, reduce disputes, and promote professionalism in the rental housing sector.

“Housing is really top of mind for everybody right now, because there is definitely a need for more housing, and rental housing specifically, right across the province,” said Landon Field, CEO of RHSK.

LEAP seeks to help both tenants and landlords by creating “a new program where people can understand the baseline of what is expected when it comes to screening tenants, … developing lease agreements, what types of things you can and can’t include, and then how the eviction process works and (how to prevent evictions) …,” he explained.

The course includes around nine modules and covers the full scope of a rental relationship — from screening tenants and signing leases, to eviction prevention and proper legal procedure when ending a tenancy. Field said it’s a practical tool not just for large property managers, but also for “anyone who owns a rental property, whether that’s one basement suite … or you’re a professional property manager looking to refresh your skills.”

“This is something that is really easy to understand and everyone will be able to take something away from this,” he added.

What makes the program unique is its Saskatchewan-specific design. While other provinces offer similar resources, LEAP was developed using the province’s own Residential Tenancies Act and existing legal framework — with support from the Law Foundation of Saskatchewan.

Field noted that when landlords are better informed, everyone benefits.

“A well-educated and professional rental housing provider leads to safe and stable tenancies for renters as well,” he said. “When renters and landlords … understand their rights and responsibilities, we’ll hopefully see fewer disputes that need to be tried at the Office of Residential Tenancies.”

Field said the decision to debut the program in Moose Jaw was intentional, highlighting the city’s role in the wider provincial network.

“We wanted to come to Moose Jaw to launch this program because we’re looking to expand our reach,” he said. “We really wanted to bring people together to hear different ideas, bounce those ideas off of each other, and really demonstrate our reach as a provincial organization.”

The certification is optional, and the course is open to both RHSK members and non-members. Pricing is set at $99 for members and $199 for non-members, with in-person workshops also planned for the future. Field said a number of larger housing providers have already expressed interest in using LEAP training as an onboarding requirement for new staff.

The program has been in development for over a year and is expected to officially go live this fall, with Sept. 1 targeted as a tentative launch date. RHSK began taking waitlist registrations during the Moose Jaw announcement.

For more information or to join the waitlist, visit RentalHousingSK.ca or call 1-306-653-7149.

Written by Shawn Slaght Friday, Jul 18 2025, 12:00 PM

Rental Housing Saskatchewan held a special members’ event in Moose Jaw on Thursday to launch its new Legal Education Assistance Program (LEAP).

LEAP is the first program of its kind in Saskatchewan. It is designed to help landlords understand their legal obligations under provincial rental property regulations.

“Whether you’re an individual investor or rental housing provider with one basement suite, or you’re a property manager overseeing dozens of units looking to refresh your skills, this course is designed to provide a baseline understanding of the regulations we have in the province,” said Rental Housing Saskatchewan CEO Landon Field.

Field added that the program also promotes mutual understanding between tenants and landlords.

He hopes it will lead to fewer disputes and disagreements.

“With this program, it’s the first of its kind. This landmark certification course is meant for landlords and housing providers. When everyone understands the rules that exist, that will lead to fewer disputes with the Office of Residential Tenancies, more respectful tenancies and everyone understanding what’s expected,” he said.

LEAP is available to all members of Rental Housing Saskatchewan. Field said there is currently a waitlist for the first class, which is expected to be completed this fall.

Rental Housing Saskatchewan represents more than 1,000 landlords and 60,000 rental units in the province.

“If you have a network of housing providers, realtors or investors and you’re just looking for more information, our office is proud to represent and support housing providers and help answer any questions they may have,” Field said.

More information about Rental Housing Saskatchewan and LEAP can be found at www.rentalhousingsk.ca.

A Prince Albert, Sask., landlord is recovering in hospital after a shooting his family believes stemmed from a contentious eviction.

Jim Primeau was shot in the backyard of his rental property on June 4, the day an evicted tenant cleared her belongings from the property.

The 57-year-old survived the shooting and is recovering, but suffered a spinal cord injury and had to be placed in a medically induced coma for four days.

“This changed all of our lives: Jimmy’s drastically, but also ours, his four sisters, who will now be his caregivers for life,” Primeau’s sister Peggy Epp said.

“We love our brother and we’re gonna do everything we can to help him recover.”

Epp is calling for changes to the province’s eviction process after what she describes as a legal but unsafe eviction.

“He followed the law, did what he was told, and the end result is he’s shot in the throat,” Epp said.

Prince Albert police have not confirmed a connection between the eviction and Primeau being shot.

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Peggy Epp says she and her three sisters will be stepping up to help take care of her brother Jim Primeau, who was shot on June 4, 2025. (Jeremy Warren/CBC)

According to Epp, a woman approached Primeau in March looking to live in one of his suites, but said she could not afford to pay the full rent. Primeau accepted half a month’s rent and let her move in, Epp said.

“He was a good guy just trying to help this woman.”

Epp said the situation spiralled, with the tenant refusing to pay the rent for the next three months.

She said her brother followed the legal eviction process, getting a court order from the Office of Residential Tenancies.

The notice was served to the tenant and she was allowed to come on June 4 to collect her belongings.

WATCH | Landlord shot after trouble evicting tenant:

Landlord shot after trouble evicting tenant

3 hours ago

Duration3:19

A Prince Albert, Sask., landlord is recovering in hospital after a shooting his family believes stemmed from a contentious eviction. Prince Albert police are investigating, but have not confirmed a connection between the eviction and the shooting. No one has been arrested.

No arrests made

“Jim phoned and said, ‘She just threatened my life,'” Epp said.

Epp said a man showed up at the home shortly after that and shot Primeau.

“Jim said, ‘I didn’t get to say anything. He pointed that gun at me and shot me,'” Epp said.

A police news release says officers responded to a report of a shooting and found a man with gunshot wounds.

“The suspect and the victim are believed to be known to each other,” the release said.

Police said in a separate statement that they’d been called to the property earlier in the day about a disturbance.

No arrests have been made in the case.

‘Whole system needs an overhaul’

Epp said the process failed her brother and could fail others, too.

“The whole system needs an overhaul,” she said.

Landon Field, CEO of Rental Housing Saskatchewan, said stories like Primeau’s are becoming increasingly common.

“I hear stories anecdotally from people working on the front lines who face threats of violent harassment — whether that’s a knife being pulled on you or threats sent to you by text,” Field said.

“Violence is never acceptable. Whether you’re a renter, property manager, landlord — nobody should face that when doing their job.”

Field said Primeau did everything right.

“It’s very frustrating to read a story like this, because they did follow the legal process and it still resulted in tragedy.”

Field said the system can be slow and costly, especially for small landlords. He said his organization is looking at possible changes, including reducing the 15-day nonpayment period.

“We are currently reviewing the Residential Tenancies Act and will be putting forward a couple of proposed amendments in the next couple of weeks,” he said.

Field’s organization is also pushing for more education for landlords and more accountability.

“A well-educated and professional landlord leads to professional and successful tenancies,” he said. “That benefits renters right across the province.”

We’re compassionate people

Epp said she is hoping to meet with other landlords in Prince Albert in the coming weeks to help advocate for change.

Despite the trauma, she said her brother’s kindness — and her own — won’t go away.

“I’m always giving people a few dollars. I’m always buying meals. I hand out gloves in the wintertime,” she said.

“We’re compassionate people, but this makes me very angry.”

Primeau’s sisters have organized a GoFundMe campaign to support his recovery.

This story was originally published on July 10 by CBC. You can view the story here.

The Chief Executive Officer of Rental Housing Saskatchewan says an incident in Prince Albert involving a landlord who was shot in the throat, affects the entire industry.

Landon Field is responding to the details surrounding a 57-year-old man who was shot while in the final stages of a near three month process to evict a tenant. The person responsible has not been caught.

“The ears perk up when it’s a story like this,” Field said, adding he himself has been contacted by a number of association members who wanted to make sure the story was on his radar.

At last word, the victim who was left paralyzed, was recovering in a Saskatoon hospital.

A family member described the three month long eviction process as exhausting and challenging. They explained despite raising concerns about violence, drugs and gang activity, they were forced to fill out the paperwork and jump through a number of hoops.

A picture taken on June 5. (Nigel Maxwell/paNOW)

 

Rental Housing Saskatchewan represents the provincial voice of landlords, rental housing providers and property managers in Saskatchewan.

“Part of our role and part of my job is to continue to advocate for improved resources, more training, supports to help rental housing providers navigate these challenges safely and responsibly because no one in our industry whether you’re a housing provider, a property manager or a tenant should ever face the threat or act of violence when navigating legal tenancy matters,” Field said.

He added the incident highlights the importance of reviewing existing safety protocols and the enhanced need for security across the province.

“Unfortunately harassment is something we do hear about from members and harassment, threats of violence, should be viewed as urgent matters,” he said.

Zachary Case, a broker with Companion Property Management, told paNOW he has been in the same position multiple times and feared for his safety.

Going forward, Case would like a legislative change made where in the case off a writ of possession enforced by sheriff, any personal property remaining in the rental unit or remaining on the premises after enforcement shall be deemed abandoned and forfeited, providing the tenant receives a writ of possession stating this consequence at least seven days prior.

Under the current law, the allowed time is two business days.

“If we give them a bit longer of a period, it can actually shorten the process overall by just having the eviction dome when the sheriffs are there,” Case said.

“This whole situation would not have happened if that legislation was in place.”

Case added he does not believe any particular agency is to blame for the recent tragedy, and from his own experience noted the sheriffs and staff at The Office of Residential Tenancies (ORT) have been respectful and good people who are just trying to do their jobs within the limits of the system.

“But with that said I do think there is a small but significant procedural gap in the eviction process,” he said.

Response from government

According to a statement provided to paNOW by the Ministry of Justice, The ORT is available to provide information to residential landlords and tenants about their legal rights and obligations under The Residential Tenancies Act, 2006, and The Residential Tenancies Regulations, 2007.

“The ORT cannot comment on specific properties or individual cases,” they said, adding the incident in question is currently being investigated, no further information can be provided at this time.

Premier Scott Moe was in Prince Albert on Friday and confirmed he read what happened and that the Ministry would look into the circumstances.

“We talk about safety in our communities on multiple fronts and multiple challenges that we are seeing in our communities and you know I think this is one of those times where we have to look at the act under a little different lens,” he said, adding people to be safe, whether to be a landlord or tenant.

You can read the full story here.

Saskatchewan’s Multifamily Outlook: Navigating Market Shifts

Canada’s rental sector is evolving, and Saskatchewan is feeling the effects. While demand remains strong, factors such as rising vacancy rates, shifting immigration patterns and slowing rent growth are reshaping the multifamily landscape. Saskatoon continues to rank high in year-over-year in-place rent increases, but growing vacancy rates are creating new challenges for property owners. Understanding these trends is key to staying competitive in a changing environment.

Canada’s rental market in transition

According to Yardi’s Q4 2024 Multifamily Report, the average in-place rent across Canada reached $1,565, reflecting an $85 year-over-year increase. However, rent growth is slowing due to declining immigration targets and anticipated interest rate cuts.

The Bank of Canada’s rate reduction to 3.25% is expected to ease financial pressures on consumers, potentially influencing rental demand. Meanwhile, online apartment searches declined in early 2025 — a seasonal trend noted in RentCafe.com’s latest report.

The RentCafe.com Canadian Renter Interest Report, powered by Yardi, ranks the top 25 Canadian cities based on millions of user interactions, including apartment availability, listing views, favourited listings and saved searches.

Key economic and political factors impacting Saskatchewan

Rent trends and affordability

Saskatoon saw a 7.7% year-over-year increase in in-place rents, making it one of the stronger rental markets in the region. Despite this growth, it remains a cost-effective option for renters compared to other major cities.

Vacancy and tenant mobility

Saskatchewan’s annual turnover rate is one of the highest in the country at 41.8%, signaling increased tenant movement. Saskatoon’s vacancy rate climbed to 6.2%, presenting challenges for housing providers seeking stability.

Changing immigration patterns

Data from the Government of Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan shows federal immigration targets have been adjusted downward from 500,000 in 2024 to 390,000 in 2025. While this may slow overall population growth, Saskatchewan’s cost of living in comparison to other major cities across Canada could continue to attract residents from other provinces.

Interest rate adjustments

Lower rates could encourage more renters to pursue homeownership, affecting rental demand, but they also boost consumer confidence, which could balance out the impact.

New rental supply

A growing number of newly constructed rental units in Saskatchewan has increased competition among housing providers. This additional supply is contributing to higher vacancy rates but also provides renters with more options, putting pressure on housing providers to enhance their offerings.

Employment and economic shifts

Saskatchewan’s job market remains stable, but as industries evolve, housing demand will fluctuate. The province’s strong resource sector continues to drive economic activity, which may attract new workers in the coming years.

Challenges and opportunities

While affordability remains Saskatchewan’s strength, rising vacancy rates require housing providers to rethink their approach. Here are six key strategies to stay competitive and attract tenants in a shifting market:

  • Enhance property amenities
    Upgraded co-working spaces, fitness centres and community areas can increase tenant satisfaction and retention. Modern renters value convenience, making these investments a key differentiator.
  • Offer flexible lease terms and incentives
    Short-term lease options, move-in incentives and discounts can help fill vacancies faster. Renters are increasingly looking for flexibility, and offering lease structures that accommodate different needs can be a major draw.
  • Leverage digital tools to streamline leasing
    From online applications to automated rent payments, digital tools simplify the leasing process and appeal to tech-savvy renters. A seamless online experience makes properties more accessible and can speed up the decision-making process.
  • Implement competitive pricing strategies
    With more rental supply available, housing providers must be strategic about setting rents. Introductory discounts or time-limited promotions can attract new tenants while keeping units occupied. Transparent pricing and value-driven incentives can make a property stand out in a crowded market.
  • Build a strong digital presence
    Regardless of property enhancements, renters are searching online first. A well-maintained website, professional photos and visibility on rental listing platforms ensure that available units — and any improvements made — are seen by the right audience. A strong online presence can make all the difference in converting interest into leases.
  • Understand and align with tenant preferences
    Findings from the simplydbs report highlight shifting tenant priorities. Whether it’s pet-friendly policies, in-suite laundry or energy-efficient upgrades, aligning offerings with renter expectations can provide a competitive edge.

By adapting to market trends and prioritizing tenant needs, housing providers can position their properties for long-term success despite rising vacancies.

The road ahead: thriving in Saskatchewan’s evolving rental market

Saskatchewan’s rental sector is evolving, with strong rent growth balanced by rising vacancies. To stay ahead, property managers must prioritize tenant retention, operational efficiency and digital leasing strategies. As competition increases, those who invest in tenant experience and proactive management will be best positioned for success. By leveraging data-driven insights, housing providers can make informed decisions that help maintain occupancy and keep Saskatchewan’s rental market thriving.

Yardi’s Multifamily Report aggregates data from 492,000 units and 5,500 properties, providing a comprehensive, anonymized look at rental trends. For deeper insights into these trends and additional data on Canadian housing markets, download the latest Multifamily Report.

The 2024 winter season arrived with a roar, bringing frigid temperatures and heavy snowfall. For rental housing providers and property managers, now is the time to take inventory and check up on properties. Proactively addressing maintenance needs can prevent costly spring repairs and ensure tenant safety.

Winter Maintenance Checklist

Key tasks for landlords and property managers include:

  • Inspect for ice dams: Check roofs for ice build-up, which can lead to leaks and structural damage.
  • Clear exhaust vents: Ensure vents are free of snow and debris to prevent carbon monoxide (CO) buildup.
  • Install CO alarms: Verify that all units are equipped with functioning carbon monoxide detectors.
  • Plan for snow removal: Establish a snow removal schedule and communicate expectations to tenants.
  • Review insurance: Ensure both landlord and tenant insurance policies are up to date.

Additionally, landlords should follow local regulations regarding heating. For instance, Saskatoon bylaws require maintaining indoor temperatures at 22°C when the outdoor temperature drops to -35°C.

Preventing Water Damage

Water damage is one of the most common insurance claims for Saskatchewan housing providers during the winter. Frozen or burst pipes can cause significant issues. To avoid this:

  • Ensure outdoor spigots are fully closed and pipes are properly winterized.
  • Remind tenants to avoid opening windows or turning off heating systems.

A proactive step is conducting a winter inspection of your property. Consider providing tenants with a winter letter outlining expectations. You may also consider providing an emergency kit containing essentials like batteries, flashlights, bottled water, and a power bank.

Snow Removal Responsibilities

For multi-family properties, snow removal is generally the landlord’s responsibility unless stated otherwise in the lease agreement. Snow should be cleared within 24-48 hours of accumulation to prevent ice formation. Include detailed snow removal policies in the rental agreement to avoid delays.

For single-family dwellings, landlords may wish to provide tenants with tools like a shovel, snow blower, and salt to help them manage snow and ice. Renters in a single-family dwelling are responsible for snow removal.

Liability and Insurance

Proper insurance coverage is essential during icy winter months. Landlords should verify they have landlord insurance and ensure their tenants carry renters’ insurance. This reduces liability in the event of accidents like slips or falls on icy sidewalks.

Be Proactive

The best way to protect your property investment and ensure tenant safety during harsh winter months is to perform proactive maintenance. By planning ahead and addressing issues before they arise, you’ll save time, reduce stress, and minimize expenses.

Saskatchewan winter presents unique challenges for rental housing providers and property managers, but proactive planning and regular maintenance can make all the difference. By addressing key concerns such as heating, snow removal, water damage prevention, and tenant communication, you can protect your property, minimize liabilities, and ensure tenant safety and comfort. With a little preparation, you’ll not only navigate the season smoothly but also set the stage for a hassle-free spring.

Saskatchewan’s Housing Leaders Launch Housing Blueprint Ahead of Provincial Election

Saskatchewan’s Housing Leaders have released Secure Homes, Strong Future: A Housing Policy Blueprint for Saskatchewan ahead of the 2024 provincial election. The blueprint is built on grassroots consultations and expert research within the housing industry – providing insights and recommendations to support Saskatchewan’s housing continuum.

Saskatchewan’s residential housing industry, including construction, rental, and real estate, faces a significant gap in housing inventory to accommodate future population growth. Secure Homes, Strong Future focuses on policy amendments and funding investments that would support the province’s residential housing industry and provide homes for Saskatchewan’s growing population.

Saskatchewan continues to attract, house, and employ people at record levels – a growing province means more housing units are required to ensure that the Saskatchewan advantage remains intact,” stated Saskatchewan’s Housing Leaders. “Our plan proposes common-sense ideas to build more affordable homes faster by improving affordability, unlocking development, lowering construction costs, and setting the stage for the future.”

The blueprint has four priority areas and includes several recommendations for provincial political parties to consider:

  1. Enhancing Affordability and Reducing Housing Costs
  • PST Adjustments for Affordable Home Construction
  • Reinstating the Home Renovation Tax Credit
  • Making the Secondary Suite Incentive (SSI) Program Permanent
  • Avoid Adding Costs Through Changes to Codes and Regulations

2. Building More Homes Faster

  • Audit of Underused Government Properties for Affordable Housing
  • Provide Provincial Support for Infill Projects
  • Support Housing Enabling and Growth Infrastructure

3. Stronger Provincial Leadership on Housing

  • Establish a Provincial Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure

4. Supporting Rental Housing Providers & Protecting Tenants

  • Enhance Efficiency and Accessibility in Rental Housing Provider-Tenant Dispute Resolution
  • Bolster Collection Mechanisms for Rent Arrears and Damages

Read the full plan here:

Secure Homes Strong Future

A Clean Slate: Managing Landlord-Tenant Responsibilities During Spring Refresh

8 (1) A landlord must maintain rental property in a good state of repair and fir for the use and enjoyment of the tenant. A landlord must keep all services and facilities included with the rent (e.g., appliances, heating, and plumbing systems, etc.) in a good and functional state of repair.

(2) A tenant must maintain reasonable health, cleanliness and sanitary standards throughout the rental unit and must repair damage to the rental unit, services or facilities caused by the tenant, or someone permitted on the property by the tenant. The tenant is not responsible for reasonable wear and tear.

(3) If the landlord grants the tenant the exclusive use of residential property (such as a single-family dwelling), the tenant is responsible for the ordinary cleanliness of the exterior of the property, including the yard or surrounding land, unless the parties agree otherwise.

  1. Have your HVAC inspected. Ensure that filters are replaced in your units heating system. If replacements or fixes are needed, now is the perfect time as the need for internal heat becomes less.
  2. Tend to the roof. In a previous blog post we discussed the dangers of falling ice and snow from a damaged roof. Now that the weather is starting to turn, inspecting and fixing roof damage is manageable.
  3. Clean the gutters. Along with fixing the roof, cleaning the gutters are also important. Winter and spring storms can bring in debris and potentially clog the drain spout.
  4. Address moisture buildup. Mold can lead to major renovation costs down the road if not addressed properly. Over the cold winter months, and the spring melt, moisture can build up on the property and there is potential for mold growth.
  5. Boost that curb appeal! Now is the perfect time to start thinking about lawn care, painting, windows, landscaping, fencing, and all things curb appeal! It is the perfect way to boost the value of an investment property and the morale of your tenants.
  1. Remove boxes, books, or furniture that are blocking vents.
  2. Tidy belongings and prevent hoarding that may cause unwanted infestations.
  3. Clean the bathrooms and kitchen to prevent mold and mildew.
  4. Keeping the ovens and stovetops clean and free from grease to prevent fires.
  5. Dispose of pet waste, vacuum pet hair if applicable to prevent odours.
  6. Throw out all garbage and take out all recycling including cardboard, bottles, etc.

Get a SaskEnergy Rebate Today!

Customers who have participated in SaskEnergy energy efficiency programs since 2017-18 are now saving more than 54,000 tonnes CO2e emissions per year. That’s equivalent to taking more than 12,000 vehicles off the road each year! SaskEnergy has numerous energy efficiency rebate programs available to help customers reduce their energy usage and increase savings.

The Residential Equipment Replacement Rebate, Commercial Space & Water Heating Rebate, and Commercial Boiler Rebate provide cash incentives when switching to high-efficiency space and water heating equipment, which helps save you money and lessen your carbon footprint by reducing your energy consumption. The Hydronic Additive rebate is available to support the investment in energy efficient products for your commercial boiler system that can help you reduce your natural gas consumption, lower greenhouse emissions and save on operating costs.

Rebates are available for the following eligible equipment and products:

  • Furnaces
  • Boilers
  • Combi Boilers
  • Heat Recovery Ventilators
  • Tankless Water Heaters
  • Condensing Water Heaters
  • Tank Water Heaters
  • Infrared Tube Heaters

To learn more about equipment and property eligibility, or to apply for a rebate online, visit saskenergy.com/rebates. You can also contact a SaskEnergy Network Member today to discuss the best options for your property.