Community Shelters and Transitional Housing in New Brunswick

Facing sudden eviction or housing insecurity can be overwhelming. If you are a tenant in New Brunswick who has recently lost your home—or fears losing it—it is important to know that community shelters and transitional housing programs are here to provide immediate and short-term support. This guide explains what these services are, how to access them, and your legal rights as a tenant in New Brunswick.

Understanding Community Shelters and Transitional Housing

Community shelters in New Brunswick offer emergency, short-term accommodation and essential services for individuals and families who have lost their housing. Transitional housing provides a bridge between homelessness and securing a permanent home, often aimed at helping tenants rebuild stability through support programs and extended stays.

• Emergency shelters operate in most major cities and serve people facing immediate homelessness due to eviction or crisis.
• Transitional housing programs help tenants develop plans for finding new homes, accessing government benefits, and, in some cases, legal supports.

For a broader overview of rights and responsibilities in this province, refer to Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

Key Steps for Tenants After Eviction

If you are at risk of, or have recently been evicted, here are some immediate actions you can take:

• Contact local shelters for immediate accommodation.
• Ask shelter staff or local social services about transitional housing options in your area.
• Gather key documents (ID, recent lease, proof of income) that may be needed for housing applications.
• Understand your rights regarding your previous rental. For help recovering your security deposit, see How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out.
• Ask about tenant advocacy or legal clinics that can help you navigate next steps.

For tenants beginning their search for a new home, you can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to compare available rental units and start planning your next move.

How to Access Shelters and Transitional Housing in New Brunswick

Emergency Community Shelters

Shelters are located in New Brunswick’s main cities, including Fredericton, Saint John, Moncton, and others. Contact these shelters directly or through the provincewide referral line (1-833-733-3733) for immediate placement. Most shelters offer:

• Safe, short-term accommodation
• Meals and hygiene facilities
• Connections to health care, counseling, and housing programs

Transitional Housing Programs

Transitional programs such as Harvest House in Moncton or Outflow Ministry in Saint John offer longer-term support (usually 3–12 months) along with budgeting advice, community resources, and rental search support.

Tip: Apply for transitional housing as early as possible, since waitlists may be long, and eligibility is often based on both need and available space.

Official Tenant Rights and Legal Protections

In New Brunswick, the Residential Tenancies Tribunal (RTT) handles residential tenancy disputes and complaints. Operating under the Residential Tenancies Act¹, the Tribunal can help resolve disputes, including those involving illegal evictions or recovery of security deposits.

Common Official Tribunal Forms for New Brunswick Tenants

• Application for Assistance (Form RTB-005): Used if you need the Tribunal's assistance with disputes following eviction, such as unlawful lockouts or recovering belongings.
  Download and instructions.
  Example: If you believe you were evicted unfairly or without proper notice, complete and submit this form to the Tribunal.
• Request for Return of Security Deposit (Form RTB-003): If your landlord withholds your deposit after you have left, use this to ask the Tribunal for help.
  Download and instructions.
  Example: Use this once you have left a rental and your landlord refuses to return your security deposit within the required time frame.

The Tribunal's decisions and forms are designed to be accessible even to those without legal experience. Always keep copies for your records.

Understanding Your Legal Rights After Eviction

Evicted tenants in New Brunswick are still entitled to fair treatment under the Residential Tenancies Act. This legislation outlines required notice periods, proper process for eviction, and your rights regarding possessions and deposits. Legal help is available if you think your eviction was not carried out lawfully.

FAQ: Shelters & Transitional Housing in New Brunswick

1. What documents do I need to access a community shelter?
   Most shelters request basic ID, health card, and any documentation relating to your eviction if available, but in emergencies, they may accept you without paperwork.
2. Can I stay in transitional housing if I have children?
   Yes, many programs offer family units or support for parents with children. Ask the intake worker about specific services for families.
3. Am I eligible for legal help if I was recently evicted?
   Tenants who have been evicted can get free advice from government tenant support services or local legal clinics. The Residential Tenancies Tribunal can assist with disputes.
4. How do I apply for help recovering my security deposit?
   File the "Request for Return of Security Deposit (Form RTB-003)" with the Tribunal if your deposit is not returned after moving out.
5. Where can I find listings for affordable rental housing after my stay at a shelter?
   You can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for the latest rental options and filters.

Conclusion: What Tenants Should Remember

• Community shelters and transitional housing are vital safety nets during housing transitions in New Brunswick.
• Know your rights by understanding the protections in the Residential Tenancies Act and using the Residential Tenancies Tribunal when needed.
• Start planning your next steps as early as possible—including applying for transitional housing and gathering important documents for new rental applications.

Clear knowledge of tenant rights and available supports makes recovery after eviction less daunting and can help you secure your next long-term home.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal (New Brunswick) – Official Info and Forms
• Province-wide shelter and housing support: Call 1-833-733-3733 for referrals
• Legal Aid New Brunswick: Free legal help for eligible tenants
• Advocacy: New Brunswick Homelessness Programs and Outreach
• For more on your rights as a tenant, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

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1. New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Act
2. Residential Tenancies Tribunal - New Brunswick Government

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