Who handles human rights complaints in New Brunswick?
The New Brunswick Human Rights Commission accepts and investigates discrimination complaints under the Human Rights Act (New Brunswick). The Commission reviews housing-related discrimination claims and can help resolve them through mediation, investigation, or a hearing. If your issue involves tenancy-specific remedies as well, you may need to contact the residential tenancy tribunal in parallel. See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick for a clear provincial overview and next steps [1].
What counts as housing discrimination?
Housing discrimination includes refusing to rent, evicting, charging different terms, denying accommodation, or harassment because of protected grounds like disability, family status, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or source of income. Discrimination can be direct (explicit refusal) or indirect (rules that disadvantage a protected group). Document specific examples such as dates, comments, or differential treatment and how it affected your housing.
Forms and evidence you need
- Complete the official complaint form and attach a clear summary describing what happened, when, and the remedy you want [2].
- Collect evidence: photos, screenshots, messages, receipts, and any notices or letters from the landlord.
- Gather tenancy records: your lease, rent receipts, and copies of any repair or correspondence related to the incident.
- List witness names and contact details and any supporting medical or agency notes that explain accommodation needs.
How the process works
After you submit the complaint form, the Commission screens it for jurisdiction and may offer mediation or start an investigation. If the matter proceeds to a formal hearing, remedies can include orders to stop discriminatory practices, changes to accommodation, or compensation. Tenancy-specific orders such as enforcement of repairs, rent disputes, or eviction reversals are handled by the Residential Tenancies Tribunal, so you may need to pursue parallel steps depending on your remedy [3].
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FAQ
- How long do I have to file a complaint?
- In New Brunswick, file as soon as possible; limitation periods can vary and early filing helps preserve evidence.
- What happens after I file?
- The Commission screens the complaint, may offer mediation, and can investigate. If necessary the matter can go to a hearing where remedies are ordered.
- Can a human rights complaint fix my tenancy problem like repairs or rent?
- The Commission can order remedies for discrimination, including accommodation changes or compensation; tenancy-specific enforcement like repair orders or eviction disputes may require the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
How-To
- Gather evidence: write dates, collect photos, save messages and receipts, and note witness names.
- Complete the official complaint form: describe events clearly, list the evidence, and state the remedy you want.
- Submit the complaint using the Commission's instructions and include all attachments.
- Respond promptly to intake questions or requests from the Commission and provide any follow-up documents.
- Take part in mediation or investigation and prepare for a hearing if the matter proceeds.
- Seek legal advice or tenant-help services if you need representation or help preparing evidence.
Key Takeaways
- File early and include clear evidence and dates.
- Keep copies of all tenancy documents and communications.
- Use official resources and contact the Commission if you have questions.
Help and Support / Resources
- Contact the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission
- Contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal (Service New Brunswick)
- Read the Human Rights Act (New Brunswick)
