Filing a Notice of Complaint can help tenants in New Brunswick resolve problems such as repairs, illegal rent increases, or eviction threats. This guide explains who handles complaints, what paperwork you need, and how to collect evidence so your case is clear and effective. It is written for renters who are not legal experts and uses plain language to describe timelines, required forms, and practical steps you can follow before and after filing. If you have an immediate safety concern or urgent repairs, act quickly and follow emergency procedures as well as the standard complaint process for the province.
What is a Notice of Complaint and who handles it?
A Notice of Complaint tells the Residential Tenancies Tribunal that you have a dispute with your landlord about a tenancy issue, such as inadequate repairs, failure to follow the lease, or an improper eviction. The Residential Tenancies Tribunal is the official body that hears these disputes in New Brunswick[1]. The Tribunal follows the province's tenancy legislation when deciding cases.
When should you file?
File a complaint when informal requests to your landlord have not fixed the issue, or when a deadline or safety concern is at risk. Deadlines matter: serving notices and applying to the Tribunal within the timeframe set out in provincial rules preserves your rights under the Residential Tenancies Act[2].
Required forms and official documents
The core document for starting a dispute is the Tribunal application form, commonly called the "Application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal" or similar official application available from the provincial website[3]. Use this form to state what you want the Tribunal to order (repairs, compensation, return of deposit, etc.). Include clear facts, dates, and the remedy you seek.
- Photos and videos of damage or unsafe conditions.
- Copies of written communications (emails, texts) showing requests or replies.
- Receipts for rent payments, repair costs, or other expenses you paid because of the issue.
- Repair requests, maintenance logs, or work orders showing attempts to resolve the problem.
When filling the application, be concise: list facts in chronological order, attach labelled evidence, and give your contact information. You may need to serve a copy of the application on your landlord and follow service instructions from the Tribunal.
FAQ
- Who can file a Notice of Complaint?
- Any tenant with a tenancy issue in New Brunswick can file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal to seek a remedy under provincial tenancy law.
- How long does the Tribunal process take?
- Timelines vary: some matters are set for an early resolution conference while others proceed to a hearing. Prepare as early as possible and check tribunal notices for exact hearing dates.
- Do I need a lawyer?
- You do not need a lawyer to file a complaint, but you can bring legal advice or representation if you wish; many tenants represent themselves with clear evidence and written statements.
How-To
- Gather evidence: photos, texts, emails, receipts and dates of incidents so your timeline is clear.
- Complete the official application form accurately, stating the outcome you want and attaching labelled evidence.
- Submit the application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal following the submission instructions on the official site and keep proof of filing.
- Serve a copy of the filed application to your landlord as required, keeping a record of how and when you served it.
- Prepare for the hearing: organize documents, list witnesses, and write a short opening statement that summarizes your key facts and requested remedy.
Key Takeaways
- Start with clear documentation: dates, photos, receipts and written requests.
- Use the official Tribunal application form and follow the service rules.
- Attend hearings prepared; organized evidence improves your chances of a fair decision.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Government of New Brunswick
- Residential tenancies forms and guides - Government of New Brunswick
- Department of Justice - Government of New Brunswick
