Tenants experiencing domestic violence in New Brunswick have specific housing protections and practical options to protect their safety and tenancy. This page explains emergency steps, how to document incidents, when to contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal, and which forms and deadlines commonly apply. It covers what landlords can and cannot do, options to end a lease early, and safety planning tailored to renters. The guidance here uses plain language so tenants and renters can act quickly and with confidence, whether seeking urgent police or victim services, requesting repairs or lock changes for safety, or applying to the tribunal for orders. If you are unsure, start by documenting incidents and contacting local supports for immediate safety.
What New Brunswick law covers
New Brunswick tenants are protected by provincial tenancy rules and by the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for dispute resolution. The Tribunal handles applications about eviction, rent disputes and urgent orders related to safety or habitability.[1] The province's Residential Tenancies Act sets out basic rights and landlord obligations, including maintaining safe premises and responding to emergency safety requests.[2]
Immediate steps if you feel unsafe
- Call 911 if you are in immediate danger and ask for police or emergency medical help.
- Contact local victim services or crisis lines for safety planning and shelter referrals.
- Document incidents: save texts, photos, medical notes, and a dated incident log to support any tribunal or police action.
- Secure your unit: consider changing locks or ask your landlord for a safety lock change; get any agreement in writing.
- Apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for urgent orders if you face threatened eviction or need formal protection; see the application form and guidance below.[3]
Ending a tenancy early and tribunal options
If you need to leave because of domestic violence, there are options to end a lease or get tribunal relief. Discuss early termination with your landlord and document the reason in writing. You can also apply to the Tribunal for an order to end a tenancy, recover deposits, or stop a retaliatory eviction. Practical examples include asking for a written move-out agreement or submitting an application asking the Tribunal for permission to end the lease without penalty.
For tenant-facing step-by-step guidance on ending a lease correctly, see How to Properly End Your Rental Agreement as a Tenant.
Practical tips for protecting housing and safety
- Keep a secure, dated folder with photos, messages and witness names to support an application or police report.
- Use the Tribunal application form to request urgent orders; include a clear written timeline and copies of evidence.[3]
- Track any costs you incur (hotel, travel, locks) and keep receipts in case you request compensation through the Tribunal.
- Reach out to local supports and legal aid early to understand deadlines and your options.
FAQ
- Can I change the locks if I fear for my safety?
- In many cases you can request a lock change for safety; contact your landlord first and keep a written request. If a landlord refuses and you remain at risk, document the refusal and consider applying to the Tribunal or getting police assistance.
- Will I lose my deposit if I leave because of domestic violence?
- Not necessarily. If you end a tenancy for safety reasons with agreement or a Tribunal order, you can seek the return of your deposit. Keep receipts and request any agreement in writing to support your claim.
- How fast can the Tribunal act on an urgent safety request?
- The Tribunal can schedule urgent hearings or interim orders in priority situations; apply promptly and include clear evidence and a safety explanation in your application.
How-To
- Document the incident: write dates, times, locations and save photos or messages as evidence.
- Contact emergency services if you are in danger and call local victim services for immediate supports.
- Request safety measures from your landlord, such as lock changes or restricted entry access, and get responses in writing.
- Complete and submit the Tribunal application form with copies of your evidence and a clear statement of the orders you request.[3]
- Attend the hearing or provide available evidence if the Tribunal schedules a hearing; bring a support person or legal assistance if possible.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Government of New Brunswick
- Residential Tenancies Act - Government of New Brunswick
- Victim Services and Crisis Supports - Government of New Brunswick
