How Renovations Affect Rent for Tenants in New Brunswick

If you're a tenant in New Brunswick and your landlord has announced upcoming renovations, you may be worried about whether your rent will increase, your right to stay in your home, and what protections you have under provincial law. This guide explains how renovations can affect your rent, what landlords are allowed to do, and what steps you should take to protect your rights.

Can Rent Be Increased Because of Renovations in New Brunswick?

In New Brunswick, landlords can make renovations or improvements to a rental property, but there are strict rules they must follow regarding rent increases. If your unit is being renovated, your landlord may want to increase your rent to reflect the improvements. It's important to understand when this is allowed and what procedures must be followed.

• All rent increases must be given with proper written notice.
• Renovations alone do NOT automatically allow huge rent hikes or unjust evictions.
• Your landlord must comply with the Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick) and the rules set by the Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick.¹

Notice Requirements for Rent Increases

For any rent increase, whether due to renovations or not, your landlord must provide written notice to you at least 3 months before the increase takes effect. Use of the official Notice of Rent Increase (Form 1) is required:

• Notice of Rent Increase (Form 1)
  When your landlord plans to raise your rent, including after renovations, they must serve this form to you at least three months prior. For example, if your landlord completes kitchen or bathroom upgrades and wishes to charge more, they must properly serve you this notice.
  View and download the official Form 1 here (PDF, Service New Brunswick)

When Renovations Lead to Tenancy Termination ("Renoviction")

In rare situations, landlords may ask tenants to move out because major renovations or repairs require the unit to be vacant. This practice is called "renoviction." In New Brunswick, there are strict procedures for this:

• The landlord must serve a Notice to Vacate if major renovations make it impossible for the tenant to remain.
• The notice must specify the reason, allow for the correct amount of time (typically 3 months), and use the official forms provided by Service New Brunswick.²
• Tenants have the right to dispute the eviction with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.

Always check if the renovation truly requires you to leave, or if temporary arrangements can be made. Sometimes, tenants and landlords can agree on a plan (for example, moving out for a set period) without ending the lease.

Common Scenarios: Renovations and Tenant Rights

• Minor Repairs or Upgrades: Landlords may improve appliances, floors, or fixtures. These do not usually justify major rent increases, but routine market adjustments may still apply with proper notice.
• Major Renovations: If a renovation is so extensive that your unit is unlivable (e.g., major plumbing overhaul), your tenancy might be terminated with correct notice. You have the right to dispute this with the Tribunal.
• Renovations and Health & Safety: If you have concerns about dust, hazardous materials, or disruption during renovation, your landlord must address these as required by law. Review Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting to learn more about your rights.

For more information about general tenant rights and obligations during your tenancy, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

Disputing a Rent Increase or Eviction Due to Renovations

If you believe a rent increase is unfair or an eviction notice is not justified, you can apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal. Common reasons to dispute include:

• Improper notice was given
• The renovations do not actually require you to move out
• The rent increase is excessive and not related to the improvements made

Follow the process below to make a formal complaint or application to the Tribunal:

Action Steps: How to Respond to Renovation-Related Rent Issues

• Review any notice your landlord gives you (rent increase, notice to vacate, or planned renovations).
• Check that correct forms and timelines are used.
  • For rent increases: Notice of Rent Increase (Form 1)
  • For eviction: Use the official Notice to Vacate form.
• If you wish to dispute, contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and submit an Application for Assistance using their online portal or downloadable forms.
• Gather any evidence (copies of notices, photos, correspondence).
• Participate in the Tribunal process; you may present your case and evidence.

If you succeed, the Tribunal may overturn the rent increase, allow you to stay, or rule on fair compensation.

Additional Resources for Tenants Impacted by Renovations

Apart from direct rent and tenancy concerns, renovations can impact your day-to-day living environment. If you experience ongoing disruptions, maintenance delays, or safety issues, read our guide on Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities for steps you can take.

Looking for a new place due to renovations? You can Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for more options across all budgets and regions.

FAQ: Renovations and Rent in New Brunswick

1. Can my landlord increase my rent after renovating my unit?
   Yes, but only with at least 3 months' written notice using the official Notice of Rent Increase (Form 1). The increase must be reasonable and comply with New Brunswick law.
2. Do I have to move out if my landlord wants to renovate?
   Only if the renovations make your unit completely unlivable and the landlord gives correct notice. Minor repairs or upgrades do not justify eviction.
3. Can I dispute a rent increase or eviction because of renovations?
   Yes. You have the right to file with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if you believe the notice is improper, the increase is unfair, or eviction isn't truly required.
4. What happens if renovations are only minor?
   For minor repairs, your landlord should coordinate with you and minimize disruption. Rent increases still require official notice, but major tenancy changes are unlikely.
5. Where can I get official help with rent or renovation issues?
   The Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick or local tenant advocacy organizations can assist.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Renovations do not automatically allow unlawful rent increases or evictions.
• Landlords must give proper written notice (and use correct forms) for any rent changes or to end a tenancy for renovations.
• You have the right to dispute unfair notices with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.

Knowing your rights and the correct processes can help you protect your home and budget during renovation situations.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal of New Brunswick - Main resource for rent disputes, eviction, and other tenant issues.
• New Brunswick Residential Tenancy Information - Government guides and all official forms.
• For questions on tenant and landlord rights, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

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1. See: Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick) - official legislation
2. See the Forms & Resources from Service New Brunswick

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