Eviction timelines in New Brunswick vary depending on why a landlord seeks to end a tenancy and whether a tenant responds or contests the notice. As a renter, you should know the typical deadlines for notices, when to expect an application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal, and how long enforcement can take after a hearing. This guide explains common notice periods, the Tribunal process, what forms you may see, and practical steps tenants can take to protect their housing—like keeping records, paying or disputing arrears promptly, and seeking help early. Understanding these stages helps renters plan, meet deadlines, and access supports available in New Brunswick.
How eviction works in New Brunswick
A landlord must usually give a written notice before applying to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal to end a tenancy. The reason on the notice (for example, unpaid rent, damage, or landlord’s own use) determines the minimum notice period and what the landlord must file next. If a tenant does not move out by the date on the notice, the landlord can apply to the Tribunal for an order to end the tenancy and for a Warrant of Possession if necessary. The Tribunal handles hearings and decisions.[1]
Common notice types and typical timelines
- 7 days: short notices for unpaid rent in many cases (pay or dispute to avoid application).
- 14 to 90 days: longer notices for reasons like landlord occupancy, renovations, or repeated breaches depending on the ground cited.
- Notice to vacate or notice to terminate tenancy: written notice a landlord must serve before applying to the Tribunal.
From notice to removal: stages and how long each can take
- Notice period: the minimum time a tenant has to move or fix the issue (varies by reason).
- Application to the Tribunal: after the notice expires a landlord may file an application — scheduling a hearing can take several weeks.
- Hearing and decision: hearings are set and a decision may be issued the same day or within days to weeks after the hearing.
- Enforcement (Warrant of Possession): if the tenant does not leave, enforcing a decision can add weeks before a bailiff executes the order.
Overall, a straightforward unpaid-rent case where a tenant does not respond can move from notice to eviction in as little as a few weeks, while disputed cases or those requiring repairs or additional evidence can take several months. If either side requests adjournments or new evidence, the timeline extends further.
What forms you may see and how tenants use them
- Notice to Vacate / Notice to Terminate Tenancy: a written notice from the landlord telling you why and when they want you to leave; you can use this to calculate deadlines and prepare a response.
- Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal: the landlord files this to ask the Tribunal for an order; tenants will receive a copy and a hearing date.
- Tenant response or evidence: bring photos, payment records, emails, and witnesses to your hearing to support your case.
If you receive a notice, consider these practical steps:
- Check the deadline on the notice and calendar the Tribunal dates immediately.
- Gather evidence: rent receipts, photos, repair requests, and messages with your landlord.
- Seek advice early from tenant services, legal clinics, or the Tribunal information line.
Finding alternate housing and other supports
If you need to move, start your search early. Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to compare listings, neighbourhoods, and prices while you prepare. Also check local emergency housing supports if you face immediate displacement.
FAQ
- How long before an eviction in New Brunswick?
- Timelines depend on the notice reason and whether you contest it; a simple unpaid-rent case can move in a few weeks, but contested matters often take months.
- Can I contest a notice and stay in my home?
- Yes. You can present evidence at the Tribunal, request mediation, or pay arrears before enforcement to avoid eviction.
- What if the landlord didn’t follow the correct process?
- If a landlord skips required steps, the Tribunal may dismiss their application; bring documentation showing missing procedures to your hearing.
How-To
- Read the notice carefully and note the date by which you must act.
- Collect key evidence: receipts, messages, photos of repairs or damage, and records of conversations.
- Contact tenant support services or a legal clinic for guidance on your options.
- Attend the Tribunal hearing, present your evidence, and ask for time to remedy issues if possible.
- If required to move, plan early, note moving costs, and request a written agreement for any negotiated departure.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Government of New Brunswick
- Residential Tenancies Act and legislation - Government of New Brunswick
- Forms and how to apply to the Tribunal - Service New Brunswick
