Ending a Lease for Domestic Violence in New Brunswick

If you are a renter in New Brunswick dealing with domestic violence, you may be able to legally end your lease and secure safety for yourself and any dependants. This page explains your rights as a tenant, the kinds of documentation commonly accepted, how to notify your landlord, and what to expect from the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and local supports. The steps below balance practical safety planning with the legal steps many renters take when they must leave a rental early for safety reasons. Wherever possible, keep written records, get help from local victim services, and use official forms or tribunal processes to protect your legal position.

Know your rights in New Brunswick

New Brunswick renters have rights under provincial tenancy rules and related legislation. If you are leaving because of family or intimate partner violence, you should check the Residential Tenancies Act and contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for guidance on ending a lease and filing applications.^[1][2]

When you can end a lease because of domestic violence

You may be able to end your lease early when a formal protection order, police report, or medical documentation links the need to leave with safety. Each case is different: the tribunal looks at risk to safety, timing, and available evidence before approving early termination or ordering an appropriate remedy.

Common evidence and forms

• Police report or file number (useful as immediate evidence and when applying to the tribunal).
• Protection order or court documents showing restrictions against the abuser.
• Medical or counselling notes that confirm injuries or psychological harm related to domestic violence.
• Any completed provincial tenancy forms (for example, an application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal) when you plan to ask the tribunal to accept an early termination.

Examples: a tenant who has a valid protection order and a police report may file an application with the tribunal and request immediate termination. Another tenant may present medical letters and ask for a negotiated early end with the landlord.

How to end the lease: practical steps

1. Contact local victim services or a shelter to make a safety plan and get referrals before you notify your landlord.
2. Gather evidence (police report, protection order, medical note) and, if applicable, complete the required tribunal application form to request termination or other remedies.^[2]
3. Notify your landlord in writing when safe to do so; explain that you are ending the tenancy for safety reasons and include any supporting documents or a tribunal application reference.
4. If the landlord disagrees, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and attend the hearing or provide the requested evidence.
5. Make moving arrangements and keep receipts for any reasonable expenses related to the emergency move if you plan to request compensation or deposit return through the tribunal.

Working with your landlord and avoiding common issues

Some landlords will cooperate and accept an early termination when safety evidence is clear. If a landlord refuses, the tribunal can review the evidence and order termination or other relief. In all interactions, keep written records of notices, emails, and receipts. If you paid a rental deposit, request its return and, if necessary, use a tribunal application to recover the deposit and any eligible costs.

Moving logistics and money

• Keep receipts for moving expenses and any temporary housing to support an application for reimbursement if awarded by the tribunal.
• Ask about deposit return procedures and timelines; if needed, file a tribunal claim to recover the deposit with interest.

FAQ

Can I end my tenancy immediately if I have a protection order?

Possibly. A protection order and supporting evidence strengthen your case; you should file with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and request immediate relief. The tribunal will assess urgency and evidence.

Will I be charged for breaking the lease?

It depends. If the tribunal finds early termination is justified for safety, a tenant may not be held liable for the full remaining rent. Outcomes vary and are decided on evidence and law.

Where can I get help planning my move and protecting my safety?

Contact local victim services, police, or a shelter for immediate safety planning and referrals; they can also help you gather the documents the tribunal needs.

How-To

1. Contact emergency services or local victim support to make a safety plan and get immediate assistance.
2. Collect evidence: police report, protection order, and medical notes, and keep copies safely.
3. Complete and submit the Residential Tenancies Tribunal application or other required provincial forms to request termination.
4. Attend tribunal proceedings or provide written evidence if a hearing is scheduled; follow the tribunal's directions to finalize the termination.

Help and Support / Resources

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal (Government of New Brunswick)
• New Brunswick Victim Services and Police Supports

1. [1] Residential Tenancies Tribunal (Government of New Brunswick)
2. [2] Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)
3. [3] New Brunswick Victim Services and Police Supports

For housing searches and to find an alternative rental quickly, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme. For localized tenant rights, see the provincial overview: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick. If you need step-by-step moving guidance after ending a tenancy, this page may help: What to Do If You Need to Leave Your Rental Before the Lease Expires.