How much is the security deposit in the Northwest Territories, and when is it due?

Short answer

For a non-weekly tenancy, the NWT caps the standard security deposit at one month of rent. The tenant can pay 50% when the tenancy begins and the remaining 50% within three months.

The staged payment schedule matters for move-in budgeting because the full one-month deposit does not have to be paid on day one.

What the rule means in practice

• Maximum standard deposit: one month of rent.
• 50% may be paid at the start.
• Remaining 50% may be paid within three months.

Deposit rules affect how much cash a renter needs before getting the keys, but they do not replace the rest of the tenancy agreement. Rent timing, pet deposits, key deposits, inspection reports and special tenancy types can have separate rules.

Calculate the amount using your rent

Use the Northwest Territories rental deposit calculator to convert the standard rule into a dollar amount using your actual monthly rent. You can also compare all jurisdictions in the Canada Rental Deposit Calculator.

Newcomers and no Canadian credit history

A landlord may ask for employment information, references or other evidence when evaluating an application, but a lack of Canadian credit history does not automatically erase provincial or territorial deposit rules. Before paying an unusual amount, ask what the payment is for, get the request in writing and check the current official source.

Official source

Northwest Territories — rental agreements and deposits →

Related CanadaStarter resources

Canada Rental Deposit Rules Index →
Rental deposit rules across Canada →
Renting without Canadian credit history →
Newcomer first-year cost calculator →

General information only, not legal advice. Residential tenancy rules can change; verify the current rule with the linked authority before paying a deposit.