Yukon Security Deposit Laws: Rules for Landlords (2026)

Security deposits are one of the most common sources of landlord-tenant disputes in Yukon. The Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (R.S.Y. 2002, c. 193), effective 1 January 2003, sets clear rules on how much can be collected, how it must be handled, and when it must be returned. Understanding these rules helps Yukon landlords protect their investment while avoiding costly disputes.

Security Deposit Limits

Landlords are limited to one security deposit per tenancy, regardless of how many tenants are added to the lease over time. If rent increases after the tenancy begins, the landlord cannot demand a top-up to match the new rent level.

Pet Deposits

Under the Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, there is no separate statutory framework for pet deposits that exceeds the maximum limit. The total security deposit, including any amount designated for a pet, cannot exceed one month's rent. If a landlord wishes to collect a deposit specifically for a pet, it must be included within this one-month maximum and explicitly documented in the tenancy agreement.

Condition Inspection Reports

Before a tenant moves in, both landlord and tenant must complete a joint condition inspection of the rental unit and sign a Condition Inspection Report. A second inspection must occur when the tenancy ends.

The landlord must provide the tenant with a copy of the move-in inspection report within 7 days after the inspection is completed and, in any event, before the tenant moves any possessions into the unit. Failure to conduct the inspection may limit the landlord's ability to make deductions from the deposit.

Allowable Deductions

Landlords may deduct from the security deposit for:

• Unpaid rent — Amounts the tenant owes at the end of the tenancy
• Damage beyond normal wear and tear — Tenant-caused damage documented in the condition inspection report
• Cleaning costs — If the unit is left in a condition requiring professional cleaning beyond normal use
• Other outstanding charges — As specified in the tenancy agreement and permitted by law

Normal wear and tear — such as minor scuffs on walls, faded paint, or worn carpet from regular use — is not deductible.

Return Deadline

Landlords must return the security deposit, plus any accrued interest, within 15 days of the later of:

1. The end date of the tenancy, or
2. The date the landlord receives the tenant's written forwarding address or e-transfer information

If the landlord fails to return the deposit or apply for dispute resolution within the 15-day window, they forfeit all claim to the security deposit.

Deposit Interest

Security deposits in Yukon accrue interest at a rate that is 4% below the prime lending rate of the main banker to the Government of Yukon on the first day of the month in which the interest is calculated (minimum 0%). This interest must be calculated and returned to the tenant along with the principal when the deposit is refunded.

Withholding the Deposit

If a landlord wants to keep all or part of the security deposit, they must either:

1. Obtain the tenant's written agreement, or
2. Apply to the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO) for dispute resolution

Landlords cannot unilaterally withhold the deposit. If the tenant does not receive their deposit within 15 days, they can file their own application with the RTO.

Prohibited Use

Tenants cannot use the security deposit as their last month's rent unless the landlord gives written consent.

How to Stay Compliant

Best practices for Yukon landlords:

1. Document everything — Complete the condition inspection report thoroughly at move-in and move-out with photos.
2. Deposit in writing — Record the deposit amount in the signed tenancy agreement.
3. Track interest — Keep records of when the deposit was received to calculate accrued interest at move-out.
4. Return promptly — Get the tenant's forwarding address in writing on the day they vacate to start the 15-day clock.
5. File for dispute resolution — If you have legitimate deductions, file with the RTO within 15 days rather than withholding unilaterally.

Elevate Your Yukon Property Management

Adhering to Yukon's Residential Landlord and Tenant Act requires a precise and highly resilient operational strategy. Overlooking the 15-day security deposit return deadline or failing to conduct proper condition inspections can result in significant financial penalties, delayed proceedings, and loss of revenue. Landager delivers a streamlined, comprehensive property management solution that automates key compliance workflows. From tracking deposit interest and condition inspection records to executing sophisticated operational analytics, Landager seamlessly manages your entire Yukon portfolio, empowering landlords in Whitehorse and beyond to maximize efficiency and fundamentally eliminate compliance vulnerabilities.

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