When a rental property in New Brunswick is sold, tenants retain core rights: your existing lease usually continues, the new owner steps into the landlord role, and entry, repair and deposit rules still apply. This guide explains what tenants should expect, how to protect privacy and deposits, and the practical steps to take if a new owner or agent tries to enter without proper notice. It uses plain language so renters can act quickly, document problems, and, where needed, apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for help.[1]
What changes when a New Brunswick property is sold?
Sale of the building does not automatically end most tenancies. A purchaser generally becomes the new landlord and must respect your lease terms, collect rent under the same agreement, and follow entry and notice rules. If you have a fixed-term lease, the buyer usually takes on that contract until it ends; if you rent month-to-month, standard notice rules apply for any future changes.
Key tenant rights about entry and privacy
- You keep the right to pay rent under the existing lease; the new owner cannot demand immediate vacating without proper legal process.
- The new owner or their agent must give proper written notice before entry for inspections, showings, or repairs and may only enter at lawful times.
- Repairs and habitability obligations remain with the new landlord; report maintenance needs and keep records.
- Security deposits must be transferred to the new owner and properly accounted for; request written confirmation of any transfer.
What to do if a new owner or agent attempts entry
If someone shows up claiming to be the new owner or an agent, ask them for identification and written notice. If they claim they can enter immediately, remind them of the required notice rules and document the interaction with photos, messages and a short log of what happened. Use a polite, firm tone and follow up in writing so you have evidence.
When to involve the tribunal or seek formal remedies
If the buyer refuses to respect your lease, enters without proper notice, or fails to account for or return deposits, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for resolution or compensation. The main tenant application form is the "Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal" which explains how to request a hearing and what evidence to bring.[3] The Tribunal and the provincial Residential Tenancies Act set the rules you rely on when filing.[1][2]
Practical evidence to collect
- Keep copies of your lease, rent receipts, and any new owner communications.
- Save written notices, emails and texts about showings, repairs, or deposit transfers.
- Record dates and times of visits and the names of people who attended property viewings.
Rights about deposits and rent after sale
The buyer should either hold your deposit or transfer it to the Tribunal or other designated account as required by law; ask for written confirmation that your deposit was received and how it will be treated. Continue to pay rent as instructed—if the new owner requests rent to be paid to a different person or account, get that direction in writing and save proof of payment.
When a buyer says they want the unit for themselves
If the purchaser claims they need the unit for personal use or to renovate, they must follow the legal eviction process and provide the correct notices and compensation where required. Short verbal claims are not enough—look for formal notices and check the applicable provisions in the Residential Tenancies Act.[2]
For general tenant guidance on handling lease details and post-signing steps, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement.
If you are moving or ending your tenancy because of the sale, practical moving tips are available: Moving Out Tips: A Tenant''s Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.
To find alternate housing or browse listings while you resolve an issue, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
FAQ
- Can the buyer enter my rental unit without notice?
- No. A buyer or their agent must give the same notice required of any landlord before entering for inspections, showings or repairs; if they enter without lawful notice you can document the incident and apply to the tribunal.[1]
- Does my lease end when the property is sold?
- Usually no. Most leases stay in effect and the new owner assumes the landlord role until the lease expires; any change must follow the law and proper notice rules.[2]
- What if my deposit is missing after the sale?
- Request written confirmation of transfer and, if the deposit cannot be accounted for, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal to recover it and seek any applicable interest or compensation.[3]
How-To
- Document: gather your lease, rent receipts, messages and photos describing any entry or deposit issues.
- Contact the new owner or their agent in writing to request their contact information, a statement about deposits, and confirmation of scheduled entries.
- File: if the issue is unresolved, complete and submit the Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal following the instructions on the official form.[3]
- Prepare for the hearing: organize documents, witnesses and a simple timeline to present to the tribunal.
Key Takeaways
- You generally keep your tenancy rights after a sale and the new owner must follow the law.
- Entry requires proper notice; document any unauthorized visits.
- Keep records and use the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if the new owner fails to respect your rights.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Government of New Brunswick
- Residential Tenancies Act and related regulations - Government of New Brunswick
- Official tribunal forms and filing instructions - Government of New Brunswick
