Living in a condo in New Brunswick brings specific rental considerations for tenants and renters. This guide explains common lease clauses, deposit and payment rules, repair and maintenance responsibilities, when owners can sublet or rent out a condominium unit, and how rent increases and eviction processes work in the province. It also explains when to contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and what official forms you may need, with practical examples so you can act confidently whether you are signing a lease, asking for repairs, or disputing a notice. Simple steps will help you track deadlines, protect your deposit and assert your rights while maintaining a cooperative relationship with your landlord or condo corporation.
Understanding condo rentals in New Brunswick
Condos may be owned by individuals who rent their units or by corporations that set building rules. Many standard tenancy protections apply, but condo bylaws and the lease agreement can add building-specific rules about parking, pets, renovations and shared spaces. Always read bylaws and the lease together so you know both your tenancy rights and the condo corporation's rules.
Lease basics for condos
A written lease should record the rental amount, payment dates, the length of tenancy, who is responsible for utilities and repairs, and any condo-specific rules. Keep a copy and keep records of rent payments and communications.
- Rent: confirm the exact amount, due date and how to pay (e.g., e-transfer or certified cheque).
- Lease length and renewal: note fixed terms, automatic renewals or notice periods to end the tenancy.
- Deposits and fees: verify whether a security deposit or last months rent is allowed and how it must be held.
- Access and entry rules: the lease should state how and when a landlord or agent can enter the unit.
Security deposits, payments and receipts
New Brunswick limits how deposits are handled and typically requires documentation of payments. If you pay a deposit, ask for a written receipt showing the amount, date and purpose. If a dispute arises about deductions at move-out, receipts and condition records are your strongest evidence.
Repairs, habitability and emergencies
Tenants have a right to a safe, habitable unit. Landlords must address urgent repairs such as heating failure, major leaks, or electrical hazards promptly. For routine repairs, provide written notice and allow reasonable time for the landlord or property manager to fix the issue.
- Report repairs in writing and keep a copy with dates and descriptions.
- In emergencies (e.g., flooding, no heat), contact the landlord immediately and follow up in writing.
- Document damage with photos or video to support any future claims.
Notices, eviction and dispute steps
If a landlord serves a notice to end the tenancy for reasons like non-payment or substantial breach, read it carefully for deadlines and the reason given. You may have the right to remedy the issue (for example, pay outstanding rent) within a short period to prevent eviction. If you disagree with a notice, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal to dispute it rather than vacate immediately.[1]
Official forms and how to use them
The province provides specific forms to interact with the tenancy system. Two commonly used forms are listed below with practical examples.
- Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal (application form): used to start a dispute about rent, repairs, deposits or termination; example: you file this after a landlord issues an eviction notice you believe is unfair.[3]
- Notice to End Tenancy / Notice of Termination (official notice form): used by landlords to give formal notice for reasons like unpaid rent or significant lease breaches; example: receive the notice, check the deadline and either remedy or apply to the tribunal to dispute it.[3]
Handling deposits and move-out
At the end of your tenancy, expect a final inspection and an itemized list of any deductions from your deposit. If you disagree with deductions, you can ask the landlord for details and, if unresolved, file an application with the tribunal for the return of the deposit plus any interest required by law.
- Do a move-out inspection with the landlord when possible and take photos dated the day you leave.
- Keep receipts for cleaning or repairs you paid for that could prevent deductions.
When to contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal
File with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if you cannot resolve a dispute with your landlord about deposits, repairs, unlawful eviction or rent issues. The tribunal handles evidence, timelines and orders that both parties must follow; it is the formal route when negotiation has failed.[1]
Key rights and tenant responsibilities
- You have the right to a habitable unit and protection from illegal eviction or retaliation.
- Provide timely contact information and permit lawful access for repairs with proper notice.
- Pay rent on time and keep a record of payments and communications.
FAQ
- Can I rent out my condo unit if the condo bylaws restrict rentals?
- No. Condo bylaws can restrict or prohibit rentals; check the bylaws and your lease. If a bylaw restricts renting, you must follow it or discuss options with the condo corporation.
- What should I do if the heat stops working in winter?
- Report the issue to your landlord immediately in writing, follow up with photos or video, and contact emergency services if there is an immediate safety risk; if the landlord does not act, consider applying to the tribunal.
- How long does the tribunal take to decide a dispute?
- Timelines vary by case complexity and tribunal schedules; file promptly and provide clear evidence to help the process move faster.
How-To
- Gather documents: lease, receipts, photos and written communication with the landlord.
- Complete the tribunal application form with clear details of the dispute and the outcome you seek.
- Include evidence of payments or damages and copies rather than originals.
- Submit the form as instructed by the tribunal website and pay any required filing fee or request a fee waiver if available.
- Attend the hearing or teleconference on the scheduled date and present your evidence clearly and calmly.
- Follow the tribunals order; if either party does not comply, the tribunal can enforce remedies.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Government of New Brunswick
- Department of Justice - Government of New Brunswick
