Housing First Programs: Tenant Rights in New Brunswick

Many Housing First programs place renters directly into permanent housing while providing supports like counselling, income help, and case management. In New Brunswick, tenants enrolled in these programs still have the same legal protections as any renter: the right to quiet enjoyment, proper notice before eviction, and basic habitability under provincial tenancy law.^[1] This article explains how Housing First models work alongside provincial rules, which official forms to use, and how to access the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if a dispute arises.^[2] It is written for tenants, program workers, and landlords who want clear steps to keep housing stable and safe in New Brunswick.

Housing First and tenant protections in New Brunswick

Housing First emphasizes rapid placement and ongoing supports rather than treatment prerequisites. Regardless of how you were housed, provincial law protects renters in New Brunswick; program participants retain the same tenancy rights as other tenants. For a plain summary of local rights see the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick page.

• Right to live in safe, habitable housing, including heat, hot water and structural safety.
• Right to proper written notice before eviction or termination, and clear reasons for any notice.
• Right to privacy and protection from unlawful entries.
• Right to challenge eviction notices or negative orders at the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.^[2]

Common forms tenants use and when to use them

• Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal — use this form when you dispute an eviction, need an order for repairs, or seek a remedy; for example, submit an application if your landlord issues an eviction notice you believe is improper.
• Notice to End Tenancy (tenant or landlord) — use when you intend to end a tenancy and must provide the correct written notice period; for example, give proper notice if you plan to move and want to avoid being charged extra rent.
• Proof of rent payment or arrears documentation — provide receipts, bank records or ledgers when disputing claimed arrears; for example, show electronic transfers or stamped receipts to the tribunal.

Working with Housing First supports and your landlord

Case managers and support workers can help with applications, repairs coordination, and preparing tribunal submissions. If repair or emergency issues arise, follow the same steps other tenants use: inform your landlord in writing, keep records, and ask for urgent fixes. See Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities for details. Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.

FAQ

What is a Housing First program?

Housing First quickly places people into permanent housing and provides voluntary supports such as mental health or income services while treating housing as a fundamental right.

Can a Housing First participant sign a standard tenancy agreement?

Yes. Participants usually sign the same tenancy agreements as other tenants and gain the same legal protections under provincial tenancy law.

What should I do if my landlord tries to evict me while I am in a Housing First unit?

Collect documents, ask your support worker for help, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if needed, and attend your hearing with evidence of payments and communications.^[2]

How-To

1. Gather documents: tenancy agreement, rent receipts, notices and any communications from supports or landlords.
2. Check deadlines and notice periods so you meet time limits for filings and responses.
3. Use the correct official form to apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and attach evidence.
4. Keep paying rent if you can; showing ongoing payment helps your case and keeps tenancy protections active.
5. Attend the tribunal hearing prepared, or ask a support worker to attend with you.
6. Contact local legal clinics, tenant groups, or your Housing First case manager for help preparing documents or appeals.

Key Takeaways

• Housing First participants retain the same tenancy rights as other renters in New Brunswick.
• Document everything: receipts, notices and communications strengthen your case.
• Use official forms and the Residential Tenancies Tribunal to resolve disputes.

Help and Support / Resources

• Read the Residential Tenancies Act and related guidance.^[1]
• Contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for applications and hearings.^[2]
• Find government housing and Housing First program information in New Brunswick.^[3]

1. [1] Residential Tenancies Act (Government of New Brunswick)
2. [2] Residential Tenancies Tribunal (Service New Brunswick)
3. [3] New Brunswick Housing and Housing First Programs (Government of New Brunswick)