Many tenants in New Brunswick face a non-payment eviction notice at some point. This guide explains, in clear terms, what non-payment evictions look like under New Brunswick law, how timelines and notices work, which official forms you may receive or need to file, and what options renters have to respond. It covers practical steps like paying rent, disputing a notice, applying to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal, and preparing evidence for a hearing. The language is aimed at tenants and renters, so legal terms are explained and examples are practical. If you are behind on rent or have received a termination notice, read the steps below to understand deadlines and protect your rights.
How non-payment eviction works in New Brunswick
When rent is unpaid, a landlord may serve a notice to the tenant that requests payment or advises that the tenancy will end. New Brunswick issues and enforces these matters through the Residential Tenancies Tribunal[1], under the province's Residential Tenancies Act[2]. A notice usually gives a short deadline to pay arrears or vacate; if the tenant does not act, the landlord may apply to the Tribunal for an order. Tenants can either pay, negotiate a plan, or file an application to dispute the eviction and request a hearing.
Official forms you may see
- Notice to Pay Rent or Vacate (often given by the landlord) — this tells you the amount owed, due date, and what will happen if you do not pay.
- Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal (application form) — used by landlords to ask the Tribunal for an eviction order or by tenants to dispute a notice and ask for a hearing[3].
Example: if you receive a written demand for $1,200 in unpaid rent with a three-day pay-or-vacate deadline, you can either pay the $1,200 with a receipt, negotiate with the landlord, or file an application to the Tribunal asking for more time or disputing the amount.
What tenants can do right away
- Pay the arrears if you can and get a written receipt that states the amount and date paid.
- Ask the landlord in writing for a short extension or a repayment plan and keep that message as proof.
- Document communications, photos, or evidence that show agreement dates, payments, or issues affecting payment.
- If you cannot resolve the issue, file an application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal to dispute the eviction or request relief[3].
FAQ
- What deadlines apply after I get a notice to pay or vacate?
- The written notice will state the deadline; timelines vary but notices often give a short period to pay or move. If you miss the deadline, a landlord can apply to the Tribunal for an eviction order.
- Can a landlord evict me without going to the Tribunal?
- No. In New Brunswick a landlord must apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for an eviction order after following the notice process; they cannot forcibly remove a tenant without an order.
- What happens at a Tribunal hearing?
- At the hearing both landlord and tenant can present evidence and witnesses. The Tribunal decides whether to grant an eviction order, allow more time, or dismiss the application based on the facts and the Residential Tenancies Act.
How-To
- Read the notice immediately and note the exact deadline and amount stated.
- If possible, pay the arrears and request a dated receipt from the landlord.
- If you disagree or need time, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal before the matter proceeds[3].
- Gather evidence: payment records, receipts, text messages, bank statements, or photos relevant to your case.
- Attend the hearing and present your evidence; ask for a written decision and follow any order carefully.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal (eviction applications) - Government of New Brunswick
- Residential Tenancies Act (legislation) - Government of New Brunswick
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