Common Area and Parking Lot Lighting Rules for Tenants in New Brunswick

Safe and well-lit common areas are a basic right for tenants living in rental housing across New Brunswick. Adequate lighting in spaces like hallways, stairways, entrances, and parking lots not only deters crime but also helps prevent accidents and provides peace of mind. If you live in an apartment building, townhouse, or any property with shared spaces, it's important to know your legal rights and what landlords must provide when it comes to lighting and safety.

Who Sets the Rules? — Lighting Standards and Your Rights

The official body responsible for residential tenancy matters in New Brunswick is the Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick. Lighting requirements in rentals are governed mainly by the Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick and local municipal property standards bylaws.^[1] These rules ensure safety and liveability for all tenants—especially in common areas where hazards and risks may arise without proper lighting.

What Lighting Must Landlords Provide in New Brunswick?

• Interior Common Areas: Hallways, stairwells, building entrances and laundry rooms must have safe, working lights 24/7 or be on reliable motion sensors.
• Exterior Areas: Building entrances and walkways must have exterior lighting to allow safe access at night.
• Parking Lots and Driveways: Lighting must allow tenants to safely park, walk to entrances, and identify hazards after dark.

If you are unsure if your building meets these requirements, check your municipality’s property maintenance bylaw or ask your landlord or property manager for lighting details.

Why Lighting Is a Safety and Health Issue

Well-lit common areas can help prevent slips, trips, and falls and discourage vandalism or unwanted visitors. When lighting is lacking, both physical safety and your peace of mind are put at risk. Inadequate lighting may also impact your ability to evacuate during emergencies. You can learn more about the links between lighting, safety, and your rights in Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Typical Lighting Problems in Rentals

• Burnt-out bulbs left unreplaced in hallways or outside entrances
• Broken or faulty light fixtures in stairwells or parking lots
• Security lights in parking areas that are not functioning
• Lack of lighting in building entrances or mailroom areas

These issues are potential violations of your right to a safe and liveable rental home as outlined by the Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick. Addressing them as soon as possible helps maintain a healthy living environment for all tenants.

What to Do If Common or Parking Area Lights Aren’t Working

If you notice lighting problems, follow these steps as a tenant in New Brunswick:

1. Document the problem — Take photos, note dates, and list which lights are out or unsafe.
2. Notify your landlord in writing — Clearly request repairs. Keep copies of your correspondence.
3. If it's not fixed, file a written complaint with your landlord or property manager. Under the Act, landlords have a duty to maintain the rental in a good state of repair.
4. If the situation remains unresolved, consider applying to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for assistance. You may use Form 6: Notice of Application to the Tribunal for Dispute Resolution. For more details and access to this form, visit the official forms page.

Legislation That Protects Your Right to Lighting

Under the Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick, landlords must maintain a safe and habitable rental unit, including common areas. Local municipal property standards may further regulate lighting in shared spaces. Always check your municipal website for the most current bylaws.

To better understand the broader legal context for your rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

Routine Lighting Repairs—Who Is Responsible?

Generally, landlords are responsible for repair and replacement of lighting in all common areas. Tenants are typically only responsible for changing bulbs or maintaining lighting inside their own units. For more on how repairs are divided, check out Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

If you experience recurring lighting failures, keep a maintenance log and raise the issue with your landlord promptly to demonstrate your concern and cooperation.

For those looking for more and better options in the rental market, you can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for new and safer leases.

FAQ: Lighting Requirements for Rentals in New Brunswick

1. Who is responsible for changing light bulbs in common areas?
   Landlords are responsible for maintaining lighting in all common areas and exterior spaces. Tenants are responsible only for lights inside their own units.
2. What can I do if my landlord ignores my lighting complaints?
   If your landlord does not respond to written requests regarding faulty lighting, you may file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal using Form 6, or contact your local bylaw office for enforcement.
3. Are there any fines for landlords who don't provide proper lighting?
   Failure to maintain safe common areas, including adequate lighting, may lead to orders from the Tribunal or penalties set by local bylaw authorities.
4. Is there a minimum brightness level required for common areas?
   Specific brightness levels (in lumens) are usually covered by municipal property standards, but the law requires "adequate" lighting for safety. Check your local bylaw for details.
5. Can I install extra lighting myself in common areas?
   No, tenants should not install lighting in common areas or parking lots themselves. Always consult your landlord for any changes to shared spaces.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Landlords must provide and maintain safe lighting in all common spaces and parking lots.
• Tenants should report lighting issues in writing and keep a record of requests.
• Official forms and the Residential Tenancies Tribunal are available to help resolve disputes.

Being proactive helps ensure that you and your neighbours enjoy a well-lit, safe living environment.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Official Tribunal: Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick
• Legislation: Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick
• Tenant Advocacy: New Brunswick Coalition for Tenants Rights
• Forms: Landlord and Tenant Forms (Province of New Brunswick)

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1. See section 9 and 11 of the Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick
2. For tribunal details and complaint processes: Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick
3. Official rental forms: New Brunswick Landlord and Tenant Forms

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