Renters in New Brunswick facing eviction often worry about what fees a landlord can legally charge. This guide explains common eviction-related costs, when landlords may seek payment for unpaid rent, damage beyond normal wear, or filing costs, and what tenants can do to challenge improper charges. You’ll learn how notices and tribunal applications work, which official forms may be used, and practical steps to document your case and protect your rights as a renter in New Brunswick. If you need to respond or get help, follow the action steps below and use the linked official resources and forms to act within required timelines.
What fees can a landlord charge during an eviction?
In New Brunswick, a landlord may try to recover unpaid rent, reasonable costs for damage beyond normal wear and tear, and administrative or legal costs if they are allowed under the lease or awarded by the tribunal. Landlords cannot charge arbitrary penalties; any amount charged should reflect actual loss or an order from the Residential Tenancies process.[1]
Common fees you might see
- Unpaid rent and any applicable late fees if allowed by the lease.
- Costs to repair damage that exceeds normal wear and tear.
- Filing or application fees if the landlord brings a case to the tribunal and the tribunal orders costs.
- Utility or service charges if the tenancy agreement makes the tenant responsible and the amounts are reasonable.
If you disagree with any charge, you can respond to a notice, gather evidence, and apply to the provincial tribunal for a decision. The Residential Tenancies system is the official route for disputes in New Brunswick.[2]
Notices, forms and timelines
Landlords must follow statutory notice rules before taking further steps. Notices typically explain the reason (for example, unpaid rent or breach of lease) and give a deadline to remedy the issue or vacate. If the deadline passes, a landlord may file an application with the tribunal to obtain an order for possession or for payment of money owed.
Typical steps a tenant should expect
- Receive a written notice with a clear date and reason; keep a copy and note delivery method.
- Gather evidence: receipts, photos, communications, and witness notes.
- If the landlord files with the tribunal, prepare a response and attend the hearing or provide written evidence.
Common official forms include the landlord's application to the tribunal and the tenancy termination notice. Learn the exact form names and how to use them on the provincial pages listed below; many forms explain when they are used and include examples such as a landlord claiming two months unpaid rent after a failed remedy period.[3]
FAQ
- Can a landlord charge for court or tribunal filing fees?
- Yes, but only if the tribunal or court orders the tenant to pay those costs or if the lease specifically allows it and the amount is reasonable.
- What counts as "damage beyond normal wear and tear"?
- Damage beyond normal wear and tear means avoidable or excessive damage, such as broken fixtures, holes in walls, or stains that require professional cleaning; ordinary scuffs and minor wear are generally not charged.
- How quickly should I act after receiving an eviction notice?
- Act immediately: read the notice carefully, preserve evidence, contact the tribunal or a tenant assistance service, and file a written response or application if needed within the stated deadline.
How-To
- Read the eviction notice and note the date you received it and the deadline in the notice.
- Collect evidence: rent receipts, photos of the unit, communication records with the landlord, and witness contact details.
- Visit the tribunal's official forms page, fill out the required response or application form, and submit it before the deadline.
- Attend any scheduled hearings or provide written evidence if you cannot attend, and ask for help from tenant services if needed.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies information and services — Government of New Brunswick
- Residential Tenancies Act and tribunal information — Government of New Brunswick
- Forms and applications for tenancy disputes — Service New Brunswick
