Tenants in New Brunswick have rights when it comes to discrimination and accessibility in housing. If you are a renter who faces barriers because of a disability, family status, race, or other protected characteristics, there are steps you can take to request accommodations, document incidents, and pursue complaints with the appropriate tribunal or human rights commission. This guide explains what kinds of accessibility changes a landlord may be required to allow, how to ask for reasonable accommodation, and what evidence helps strengthen your case. It also covers timelines for filing complaints, the forms and tribunals relevant in New Brunswick, and practical tips for communicating with landlords while protecting your rights.
Rights and protections in New Brunswick
Provincial rulesprotect tenants from discrimination and require reasonable accommodation for people with disabilities under human rights law and residential tenancy rules. You can read about local tenant rights in Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick. If you cannot resolve an issue with your landlord, you may file with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal [1] or raise a human rights complaint with the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission [2].
- Installing grab bars or shower supports to allow safe bathing.
- Changing locks or providing accessible key options where reasonable.
- Allowing a temporary ramp or threshold changes for wheelchair access.
How to request an accommodation
Begin by making a written request that explains the accommodation needed and why it relates to your disability or protected ground. Be clear about the change you propose and offer reasonable alternatives if possible. If the landlord refuses, document the response and consider filing a formal complaint.
- Send a dated written request describing the accommodation you need.
- Attach supporting evidence such as a doctors note, photos, or an occupational therapists recommendation.
- Give the landlord a reasonable time to respond and to arrange the change.
- Keep copies of all communication, receipts, and quotes for work.
Filing complaints and official forms
If informal requests fail, you can file a formal application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for tenancy-related issues or a human rights complaint for discrimination claims. For practical guidance on preparing and following up on complaints, see How to Handle Complaints in Your Rental: A Tenant's Guide. Typical official forms include the "Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal" (form name: Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal; form number: not listed on the general info page) and the "Human Rights Complaint Form" for the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission (form number: not listed). For example, a tenant who requested a ramp in writing and received a refusal could file the Tribunal application to ask for an order requiring the landlord to allow reasonable modifications and seek cost recovery for necessary changes [1].
What to expect at a hearing
Hearings are an opportunity to present evidence and explain why the accommodation is reasonable. Bring copies of every document you referenced and organize witnesses or written statements if needed.
- Bring organized evidence: photos, emails, medical notes, and quotes for work.
- Prepare to explain the timeline: when you requested accommodation and the landlords response.
- If possible, list witnesses who can confirm the accessibility barrier or attempts to resolve the issue.
FAQ
- Can my landlord refuse to make accessibility changes?
- Landlords must allow reasonable accommodations for disabilities unless doing so would cause undue hardship; minor or reasonable changes are often required.
- How do I file a complaint about discrimination in housing?
- Start with a written request to your landlord, then file with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission if needed; see the official tribunal and commission pages for forms and instructions [1][2].
- What evidence helps my case?
- Clear dated communication, photos, medical or professional notes, quotes for repairs, and witness statements strengthen a complaint.
How-To
- Contact your landlord to explain the accessibility issue and request an accommodation in plain language.
- Send a dated written request and keep a copy for your records.
- Gather evidence: photos, medical notes, repair quotes, and communication logs.
- If the landlord refuses or does not respond, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal within the applicable timelines.
- Attend the hearing, present your organized evidence, and bring witnesses or written statements if available.
- If the decision orders changes, follow the process to enforce the order or seek remedies for costs.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Government of New Brunswick
- New Brunswick Human Rights Commission
- Service New Brunswick - Housing and tenancy information
For renters searching for accessible or suitable listings, Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings to check features and connect with listings that note accessibility options.
