Filing a Human Rights Complaint for Housing in NB

Many tenants and renters in New Brunswick face discrimination in housing because of disability, family status, race, religion, age, or other protected grounds. If you believe you were refused a rental, charged different terms, evicted, or denied reasonable accommodation because of a protected characteristic, you can file a human rights complaint with the provincial commission. This guide explains what legally counts as housing discrimination in New Brunswick, the evidence and official forms to gather, how to meet filing deadlines, and what to expect after you submit a complaint. It gives practical, tenant-focused steps and links to the commission and the residential tenancies tribunal so renters can protect their rights and pursue a fair outcome.

What counts as housing discrimination in New Brunswick?

Housing discrimination means being treated differently in renting, leasing, terms of tenancy, or access to housing services because of a protected ground such as disability, family status, race, religion, sex, or age. Examples include refusing a rental application because of a visible disability, denying a reasonable accommodation request for a service animal, or offering worse lease terms based on family composition.

Before you file: gather evidence

Collect clear, dated evidence that shows the discriminatory treatment and the context. Strong, organized documentation helps the commission understand your case quickly.

• Photos or videos showing a landlord's differential treatment or inaccessible features of a unit.
• Copies of emails, text messages, advertisements, or letters that show refusal, different terms, or discriminatory language.
• Names and short statements of witnesses or other applicants treated differently.
• Medical or support documentation when requesting a reasonable accommodation for disability.

Preparing official information and forms

Identify the correct official form and where to send it. The New Brunswick Human Rights Commission provides an intake or complaint form you must complete; also note deadlines and any required identification. If the dispute also involves tenancy matters such as eviction or rent, the Residential Tenancies Tribunal handles rental-specific applications and may be relevant alongside a human rights complaint.^[1][2]

• Human Rights Complaint Form — use this to formally state your discrimination allegation and list evidence and witnesses.
• Residential Tenancies Tribunal Application — use if your dispute includes tenancy issues like unlawful eviction or rent-related remedies.

Useful tenant resources

For habitability or health-related evidence, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting for documentation tips. For common tenancy disputes and informal resolution options, consult Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

If you need alternative housing while a complaint proceeds, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

How the complaint process usually works

After you file, the commission checks whether the complaint falls under the Human Rights Act and whether it was filed within applicable time limits. The commission may attempt early resolution or mediation. If not resolved, the matter can move to investigation and, if necessary, a hearing or tribunal process where both sides present evidence.

FAQ

Who can file a human rights complaint about housing in New Brunswick?

Any person who believes they were discriminated against in housing because of a protected ground can file with the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission.

How long do I have to file a complaint?

Time limits can vary; file as soon as possible after the incident and check the commission website for exact deadlines and exceptions.

What outcomes can result from a successful complaint?

Possible outcomes include negotiated settlements, orders for accommodation, compensation for losses, or directives to change discriminatory policies.

How-To

1. Gather evidence: collect dated photos, messages, witness names, and any medical documentation that supports your claim.
2. Complete the Human Rights Complaint Form with clear facts, dates, and the relief you seek.
3. Submit the form to the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission following their instructions and keep a copy of your submission and any delivery receipts.
4. Cooperate with any commission requests, attend mediation if offered, and prepare for a hearing if the matter proceeds.

Key Takeaways

• Document everything with dates and copies to strengthen your complaint.
• File promptly and watch filing deadlines to preserve your rights.
• Use official forms and official submission channels for the commission and tribunal.

Help and Support / Resources

• New Brunswick Human Rights Commission
• Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Service New Brunswick
• Human Rights Act (New Brunswick) information

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1. [1] New Brunswick Human Rights Commission
2. [2] Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Service New Brunswick
3. [3] Human Rights Act (Government of New Brunswick)