Accessibility Inspections and Tenant Rights in New Brunswick

Tenants often encounter accessibility-related inspections when requesting changes or reporting barriers in their rental home. This guide explains what inspections are, what notice and privacy protections renters have, and how to request accommodations under New Brunswick law. You’ll learn practical steps for documenting issues, using official forms, and when to contact the Residential Tenancies program or the Human Rights Commission. The language is plain and focused on renter rights, including what to expect during inspections and how to respond if a landlord or property manager does not follow required notice, timing, or accessibility standards. Keep records and follow the action steps to protect your housing and access needs.

What are accessibility inspections in rental housing?

Accessibility inspections in a rental context may be requested by a tenant, initiated by a landlord, or carried out as part of building-wide accessibility reviews. Inspections identify barriers such as narrow doorways, missing grab bars, or unsafe routes that affect a renter's daily living. If you need an inspection to request an accommodation or repair, start by asking for a written explanation and confirm any appointment in writing with the landlord or property manager ^[1].

Tenant rights during inspections

• Tenants must receive proper notice before a non-emergency entry, including the reason and a reasonable time window.
• Tenants can request scheduling that accounts for mobility, support workers, or personal care needs and can notify the landlord of privacy needs.
• Keep records: photographs, dated notes, and copies of messages or letters about the inspection.
• Landlords are responsible for repairs that affect habitability or accessibility features unless the lease says otherwise and the damage was caused by the tenant.

For tips on what to check during a landlord visit, see the Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants.

Official forms and when to use them

Common official resources include:

• Residential Tenancies information and forms (Government of New Brunswick)^[1] — Use this page to learn how to apply for dispute resolution and to find official forms and program contacts.
• New Brunswick Human Rights Commission^[2] — Use this for complaints about discrimination or failures to accommodate based on disability.
• Forms and Notices (if available)^[3] — Typical items include a Notice to Enter and an Application for Dispute Resolution; use the Application when an accommodation or repair is refused or ignored and you need a formal decision.

How to enforce your rights and file a complaint

Start by communicating in writing, keep copies, and use official forms when informal requests do not resolve the issue. If the matter involves discrimination or denial of accommodation, you may file a complaint with the Human Rights Commission. For tenancy disputes about repairs or unlawful entry, apply to the Residential Tenancies program for dispute resolution ^[1]. You can also search current rental listings to consider relocation options if necessary: Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

FAQ

Do landlords need my permission to inspect for accessibility issues?

Landlords must give proper notice for non-emergency inspections and may need your consent for access that affects privacy; emergencies are handled differently depending on the situation.

Can I refuse an inspection if I have accessibility concerns?

You can request reasonable accommodations for timing and attendance, but refusing legitimate, properly-noticed inspections repeatedly may cause other legal issues; document your concerns and proposed alternatives.

When should I file an application with the Residential Tenancies program?

File when written requests and informal resolution fail, or when you need a binding decision about repairs, entry, or accommodation obligations.

How-To

1. Check the notice and entry rules listed by the Residential Tenancies program and note any timelines.
2. Document the accessibility issue with dated photographs, a written log, and copies of messages.
3. Serve a written request for accommodation or repair and keep a copy as evidence.
4. File the appropriate application and request a hearing with the Residential Tenancies program or the Human Rights Commission if accommodation or repairs are refused.
5. Prepare a simple evidence folder for the hearing with photos, messages, receipts, and a clear timeline.

Key Takeaways

• Get all access or inspection notices in writing and save copies.
• Document barriers with dated photos and notes as your primary evidence.
• Use official forms to start dispute resolution when informal requests do not work.

Help and Support / Resources

• Contact Service New Brunswick - Residential Tenancies
• Contact New Brunswick Human Rights Commission
• Contact Legal Aid New Brunswick

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1. [1] Service New Brunswick - Residential Tenancies
2. [2] New Brunswick Human Rights Commission
3. [3] Service New Brunswick - Forms and Notices