Are you renting in New Brunswick and facing questions about your rent, security deposit, or changes in your financial obligations? This guide provides up-to-date answers about rent payments, deposits, rent increases, and tenant protections, all tailored to New Brunswick law. Whether you're starting a tenancy or dealing with ongoing rental issues, we break down what you need to know in plain language.
Understanding Rent and Deposits in New Brunswick
In New Brunswick, rent and deposit rules are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act[1]. It's essential for tenants to know their obligations when moving in, paying rent, and ending their tenancy.
How Much Can Be Charged for a Security Deposit?
Landlords in New Brunswick can only ask for a security deposit equal to one week's rent (for weekly tenancies) or one month's rent (for monthly tenancies). This deposit must be held in trust and can only be used for unpaid rent or damages beyond normal wear and tear.
For a full breakdown on deposits, see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know.
Getting Your Security Deposit Back
After your tenancy ends, your landlord must return your deposit within seven days, minus any lawful deductions. If you disagree with deductions or if it's not returned, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
Rental Payment Rules
Monthly rent is due on the date specified in your tenancy agreement. If your payment is late, your landlord must provide written notice before they can take action. Never pay rent in cash without receiving a signed receipt.
For more tips, visit Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips.
Can My Landlord Increase the Rent?
Yes, but rules apply. In New Brunswick, landlords must give at least three months' written notice for rent increases in a month-to-month or week-to-week tenancy. There is currently no province-wide maximum on how much the rent can be raised, but all increases must be reasonable or they can be disputed through the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
You can learn more about rent increases and your options in our guide Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know.
Key Official Forms
- Notice of Rent Increase (Form 3): Used by landlords to inform tenants of an upcoming rent increase.
Tenants should check that the notice is provided at least three months in advance. Download here. - Application for Assistance (Form 6): Tenants use this form to file complaints (for example, to dispute a withheld deposit). Get the official form.
Always submit forms promptly to avoid missing deadlines.
The New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Tribunal
All rental dispute matters (including rent, deposits, repairs, and evictions) are handled by the Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick. The Tribunal provides resources for tenants and landlords, offers dispute resolution, and manages all official forms and applications.
What Can I Do if My Deposit Isn't Returned?
If your landlord does not return your deposit within seven days of your move-out, you can file a complaint with the Tribunal using Form 6. Include supporting evidence, such as your move-out inspection and receipts.
Where Can I Find a New Rental?
Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for a convenient, map-based experience and verified listings in your area.
Want to Know More About Tenant Rights?
For more on New Brunswick rental laws and a full review of your legal protections, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.
If you receive notice of a rent increase and aren't sure it's valid, always check the date, amount, and whether the correct notice period was followed. If in doubt, consult the Tribunal or tenant advocacy resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much deposit is a landlord allowed to ask for in New Brunswick?
Landlords can only request one month's rent (or one week's rent for weekly tenancies) as a deposit. They cannot ask for additional "last month's rent" or pet/security deposits outside of this legal maximum. - When must my security deposit be returned?
Your landlord must return your security deposit within seven days after the tenancy ends, minus any approved deductions for unpaid rent or damages. - Can my landlord raise my rent at any time?
No. For ongoing (month-to-month or week-to-week) tenancies, landlords must give at least three months' written notice, using the correct official form. - What should I do if my landlord doesn't return my deposit?
Fill out Form 6 (Application for Assistance) and submit it to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal, providing documentation of your tenancy and move-out. - How do I dispute a rent increase I believe is unfair?
You can apply to the Tribunal using Form 6 to challenge rent increases you believe to be unreasonable, especially if the property has health or safety concerns.
How To: File a Complaint When a Deposit Isn't Returned
- Request your deposit in writing. Politely remind your landlord of their legal obligation and set a deadline for payment.
- Gather supporting evidence. Collect your move-out inspection report, receipts, and communications with your landlord.
- Fill out Application for Assistance (Form 6). Complete the form and attach your evidence.
- Submit your application. Send the form to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal by mail, in-person, or online.
- Follow up with the Tribunal. Keep copies of all forms, and respond promptly to any inquiries from the Tribunal.
Key Takeaways for New Brunswick Tenants
- Deposits are strictly limited by law and must be returned promptly after move-out.
- Rent increases require three months' written notice on the correct form.
- The Residential Tenancies Tribunal is your key resource for forms, complaints, and dispute resolution.
Need Help? Resources for Tenants
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick (for forms, guides, and dispute resolution)
- Rent-related forms: Official New Brunswick Tenant Forms
- Tenant advocacy: New Brunswick Tenant Associations (contact your local group for support on rent or deposit issues)
- [1] Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick: https://www2.snb.ca/content/snb/en/sites/rental.html
- Official forms: https://www2.snb.ca/content/snb/en/sites/rental/tenants.html
