Disputing a Rent Increase in New Brunswick: A Tenant’s Guide

If you are a tenant in New Brunswick facing a rent increase you believe is unfair or exceeds provincial rules, there are clear steps you can take to protect your rights. New Brunswick’s laws provide unique protections and a formal process if you wish to challenge a rent hike. This article will walk you through your options, the required forms, and how the process works—using up-to-date government information, all in plain language.

Understanding Rent Increases in New Brunswick

In New Brunswick, landlords can legally increase the rent, but must follow specific notice requirements under the Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)^[1]. There is currently no provincial limit (rent control) on how much rent can be increased, but tenants must receive proper notice and have the right to dispute any increase they believe is unreasonable.

• Landlords must give at least 3 months’ written notice before increasing rent.
• They cannot increase the rent during a fixed-term lease unless your agreement allows it.
• For month-to-month or year-to-year leases, increases cannot happen more than once every 12 months.

Knowing your obligations as a tenant is essential. For more about general rights and duties, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

How to Dispute a Rent Increase: Step-by-Step

If you feel your rent increase is unfair or not properly served, you can file a formal dispute with the provincial authority. This process can help you negotiate with your landlord, or allow an official to decide if the increase is reasonable.

Step 1: Review the Rent Increase Notice

• Confirm that your landlord gave you a written notice at least three months in advance.
• Check for details: the new rent amount, the date the new rent starts, and the method of notice delivery.

Step 2: Prepare and Submit Form 6 – Application for Assistance “Notice of Rent Increase”

To officially dispute the rent increase, you must file Form 6 – Application for Assistance 'Notice of Rent Increase' to the Office of the Rentalsman (New Brunswick’s residential tenancy board).

• Form Name: Application for Assistance “Notice of Rent Increase” (Form 6)
• When to use: After receiving a rent increase notice you want to challenge, and before the increase takes effect (within 30 days of receiving notice).
• Official form and instructions: Download Form 6 here (PDF, Government of New Brunswick)
• Where to submit: Email, mail, or deliver in person to The Office of the Rentalsman.

Example: Let’s say you get a letter stating rent will increase by $150 in three months. If you feel this is unfair, complete and submit Form 6 within 30 days to start the formal dispute.

Step 3: The Dispute Resolution & Hearing Process

Once you submit Form 6, the Office of the Rentalsman will review your application and may arrange a mediation or a formal hearing. They will notify your landlord and consider factors such as:

• The history of rent at your unit
• The comparability to similar rentals in your area
• The condition of your unit and services provided

You and your landlord may have a chance to present your sides, submit relevant documentation, and suggest a compromise. The Rentalsman’s decision is binding.

Your Rights and Responsibilities

It’s important to pay the current (pre-increase) rent on time and avoid withholding payment during the dispute unless the Rentalsman orders otherwise. Breaching your responsibilities could impact your case. For a deeper guide on paying rent, see Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.

What Happens If You Win or Lose the Dispute?

• If successful, your rent increase may be reduced, delayed, or cancelled.
• If not successful, you must pay the new rent as decided by the Rentalsman.

If at any point you have questions about your broader tenant rights in the province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

Looking for a New Home?

Whether you are challenging an increase or considering moving, you can find rental homes across Canada on Houseme with easy filters to match your needs and budget.

1. Can I dispute any rent increase in New Brunswick?
   Yes. Tenants can dispute any rent increase by filing Form 6 with the Office of the Rentalsman within 30 days of receiving the written notice.
2. Is there a maximum amount a landlord can increase rent in New Brunswick?
   No. Unlike some provinces, New Brunswick doesn’t have rent control or a cap on how much rent can be increased, but increases must be reasonable and follow notice rules.
3. What happens if I don’t file a dispute in time?
   If you do not submit your application within 30 days, you may lose the right to challenge the rent increase, and the new rent takes effect as scheduled.
4. Who handles rent increase disputes in New Brunswick?
   The Office of the Rentalsman processes and makes decisions about rent increase disputes under the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
5. Do I have to keep paying my rent during a dispute?
   Yes. Continue to pay your current rent unless the Rentalsman instructs otherwise. Not paying rent could weaken your case or lead to eviction.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Tenants must act quickly—submit Form 6 within 30 days to dispute a rent increase.
• There is no provincial rent cap, but increases must be reasonable and follow legal notice rules.
• Support is available from the Office of the Rentalsman and other tenant resources in New Brunswick.

Understanding your rights and taking prompt action is essential for fair housing.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of the Rentalsman (Residential Tenancies Tribunal – New Brunswick): Main contact for tenancy disputes, rent increase forms and guidance. Phone: 1-888-762-8600
• Legal Aid New Brunswick: Free and low-cost legal help.
• New Brunswick Tenants Rights Advocacy: Advice, sample letters, and support for renters.
• Download Tenancy Forms and Information (Government of NB)

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1. Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick) – Government of New Brunswick

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