Being evicted can make finding a new rental feel overwhelming, but tenants in New Brunswick still have options to rebuild their rental history. This guide explains practical steps renters can take to get a rental reference after an eviction, including how to document payments and communications, ask for neutral or conditional references, and use official tribunal records to show what happened. It also covers which forms and proofs landlords and tenants commonly rely on, how to request corrected records, and where to find provincial support. The tone here is supportive and clear so tenants can act confidently when applying for housing or responding to landlord questions about past evictions.
What to expect after an eviction
After an eviction, the official record in New Brunswick is kept by the Residential Tenancies Tribunal, which handles applications and decisions about tenancies and can be asked to correct or clarify records Residential Tenancies Tribunal[1]. The underlying rules are set out in the provincial Residential Tenancies Act, which explains rights, remedies, and how tribunal decisions are made Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)[2].
Documents and evidence to collect
- Copies of rent receipts, bank statements, and proof of payments showing dates and amounts.
- Photographs, inspection reports, and repair requests that show unit condition and any landlord responses.
- All written communications: emails, texts, letters, and any notices served or received.
How to ask a landlord for a rental reference
- Ask in writing for a simple factual reference that lists tenancy dates and payment history rather than opinions.
- Offer to provide supporting documents to attach to the reference, such as receipts or a move-out condition report.
- If the landlord refuses, request a short written statement explaining why, then preserve that response for future applications.
If a landlord refuses or provides a negative reference
If a landlord refuses or gives a negative reference, ask them to put their reasons in writing and use your collected evidence to ask the Residential Tenancies Tribunal to correct any inaccurate statements; the tribunal process and application forms are available from the official tribunal site[1]. You can also explain the circumstances to prospective landlords and attach objective documents that clarify payments or repairs.
For a clear summary of provincial rights and common tenancy rules, see the internal resource Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick. If you are preparing to move and want practical moving checklists to reduce disputes, see Moving Out Tips: A Tenant''s Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.
Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme[3] can help you search for listings after an eviction; include your explanatory notes and supporting documents when you apply to new landlords.
FAQ
- Can a past eviction automatically prevent me from getting a rental reference?
- No. A past eviction does not automatically block a tenant from getting factual references; landlords must be truthful and you can supply documents and tribunal records to explain circumstances.
- How long should I keep records after an eviction?
- Keep receipts, communications, and inspection reports for at least two years, or longer if you plan to contest a tribunal decision.
- Can the Residential Tenancies Tribunal change or remove a negative reference?
- The tribunal cannot force a third party to write a favorable reference, but it can correct inaccurate records or clarify a decision if you file an application and present evidence.
How-To
- Gather evidence: rent receipts, bank records, communication logs, photos, and inspection reports to document your tenancy and payments.
- Ask your former landlord in writing for a factual reference that lists dates and payments, and attach your supporting documents.
- If the reference is incorrect, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and include copies of your evidence and the landlord's written responses.
- When applying to new landlords, include a short cover note, your supporting documents, and any tribunal decision that clarifies the eviction context.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal (Government of New Brunswick)
- Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)
