As a renter in New Brunswick, you may be wondering whether your landlord must provide air conditioning or allow you to install a unit. Tenants have rights related to habitability, repairs and safe electrical systems, and understanding how those rules apply in summer heat can help you make clear requests, document issues and, if needed, bring a dispute to the tribunal. This article explains typical landlord and tenant responsibilities in New Brunswick, how to ask for repairs or permission to install portable or window air conditioners, what forms and deadlines to expect, and practical steps to keep you and your home safe during heat events.
What New Brunswick law says about cooling
New Brunswick tenancy law requires landlords to maintain rental units in a reasonable state of repair and fit for habitation; that duty often covers systems that affect health and safety, including ventilation and protection from extreme heat when it creates an unsafe living condition.[1]
How to request air conditioning, repairs, or permission
Start by checking your lease for any clauses about appliances, window units or electrical limits. If nothing prohibits an AC, make a written request to your landlord describing the problem, proposed solution, and any safety concerns. Keep copies of every message, photos of temperatures or hazards, and receipts for any minor fixes you arrange.
- Send a clear written repair request that explains the issue and your preferred solution.
- Keep dated photos, temperature readings and correspondence as evidence.
- If the landlord doesn’t respond, request the next steps in writing and ask for a timeline.
Portable and window AC units: permission, installation and costs
Many landlords allow portable or window units but require permission for installation or drilling. If the unit needs wiring changes or installation that could affect the building, the landlord may require a qualified electrician and may charge the tenant for approved installations or deduct costs if the lease permits. If you need cooling for a medical reason, explain the accommodation request and provide supporting documentation.
You can learn more about local rights and obligations in provincial overviews such as Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick and about repair responsibilities at Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.
When to file with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal
If a landlord fails to address unsafe heat, refuses reasonable AC installation requests, or does not complete necessary repairs within a reasonable time, you may apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal. The typical route is an application asking the tribunal to order repairs, allow installation, or, in some cases, reduce rent until the issue is fixed. State the remedy you want, provide your evidence and timeline, and include copies of written requests and responses.
Example: If your landlord ignores repeated written requests to fix ventilation or allow a medically recommended portable AC, file an application describing the dates you asked, the health reason if applicable, and attach photos and messages. The tribunal may schedule a hearing or mediation.
The official application and guidance are available from the provincial tribunal and legislation pages listed in Help and Support / Resources below.[2]
FAQ
- Do landlords have to provide air conditioning in New Brunswick?
- Not always; landlords must maintain units in a habitable condition, but air conditioning is not universally required—situations posing health or safety risks may trigger obligations.
- Can I install a window AC without permission?
- No, you should get written permission if installation requires drilling, structural changes or electrical modifications because unauthorized work can be grounds for dispute.
- What if my landlord won’t respond to my repair request?
- Document your requests, send a clear written notice with a reasonable deadline, and consider applying to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if the landlord still does not act.
How-To
- Write a dated, clear request describing the cooling problem and desired fix and send it to your landlord.
- Collect evidence: photos, temperature logs and copies of all messages and receipts.
- If the landlord fails to act within a reasonable time, request a written timeline and a follow-up.
- Apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal with your evidence and desired remedy if the issue remains unresolved.
Key Takeaways
- Landlords must keep units habitable, which can include addressing dangerous heat.
- Always make requests in writing, keep records, and use the tribunal when necessary.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal (Service New Brunswick)
- [1] Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick consolidated legislation)
- [2] Residential Tenancies forms and applications
