Tenants moving into or living in New Brunswick often wonder whether they can change locks, how to protect their personal safety, and what legal steps to follow. This article explains tenant rights and landlord responsibilities around locks, emergency entries, and lock-related repairs in plain language. It covers when you may change locks, how to notify your landlord, examples of secure lock options, and the official forms and tribunal contacts to use if disagreements arise. Follow the practical steps for documenting changes, handling return of keys at the end of a tenancy, and where to get help locally. Useful links and a step-by-step how-to are included to help renters take secure, lawful action.
Understanding locks and your rights in New Brunswick
In New Brunswick, tenants have practical rights to safety and privacy, but those rights exist alongside landlord obligations for reasonable access and habitability. If you are unsure about the rules that apply to your situation, contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for guidance and forms.[1] For habitability and safety concerns that may affect lock decisions, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting when deciding whether a lock change is needed.
When you can change locks
Common, acceptable reasons for changing or adding locks include safety concerns after a break-in, lost keys, or to improve security with landlord agreement. If your lease specifically forbids changing locks without permission, you should follow the lease process or seek tribunal advice.
- Safety concern after a break-in or threatened break-in
- Lost keys or suspected unauthorized copies
- To add a secondary deadbolt for personal security with notice to landlord
- When locks are faulty and need replacement to maintain habitability
Notifying the landlord and official forms
Even when you have a safety reason, you should notify the landlord in writing and keep a copy. If the landlord refuses reasonable security repairs or access to a necessary lock change, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for a decision. The main form tenants use to start a dispute is the Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal (often available as an official application form). Use this form to explain the issue, what remedy you seek, and attach evidence such as photos or repair receipts.[2]
Practical steps before and after changing a lock
Follow these steps to act responsibly and to protect your tenancy rights.
- Review your lease for clauses about locks, keys and alterations before you do anything.
- Notify your landlord in writing that you intend to change or have changed a lock, including the reason and date.
- Keep receipts, installation details, and photos of the new lock and hardware as proof of work and cost.
- Agree in writing how original keys will be returned or whether the landlord needs a copy, and document the exchange.
- On move-out, follow lease rules for returning keys; provide written proof or a signed receipt when handing keys back.
FAQ
- Can I change the locks without asking my landlord?
- Generally you should not change locks without first checking the lease and notifying the landlord; emergency safety changes are often allowed but you must document and inform the landlord promptly.
- What if my landlord refuses to fix a broken lock?
- If a lock affecting security or habitability is not fixed after you notify the landlord in writing, you may apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for an order requiring repairs or compensation.
- Will I get in trouble for adding a secondary lock or deadbolt?
- Adding a secondary lock is usually reasonable if you notify the landlord and you do not damage the door or frame; permanent alterations that breach the lease may require permission or repairs at move-out.
How-To
- Review your lease for lock and key clauses and confirm any permission requirements.
- Give written notice to your landlord explaining why you need the lock change and when it will occur.
- Choose a reputable locksmith and obtain invoices, receipts, and a short installation report.
- Document the change with dated photos, keep copies of all communication, and request any agreed key handover in writing.
- If the landlord and tenant cannot agree, file the official application form to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal with your evidence.
Key Takeaways
- You can often change locks for safety but must follow lease rules and notify the landlord.
- Always keep dated photos, receipts, and written notices to support your case if a dispute arises.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Government of New Brunswick
- Residential tenancy information and forms - Government of New Brunswick
- Contact pages for tenant assistance - Service New Brunswick
