How to Handle Unexplained Rent Increases in New Brunswick

If you’re a tenant in New Brunswick facing a sudden or unexplained rent increase, it’s important to know your rights and the steps you can take. New Brunswick rental law protects tenants from unreasonable or improperly communicated rent hikes. This guide will walk you through what to look for, the official forms you may need, and where to turn for help in protecting your home and budget.

Understanding Rent Increases in New Brunswick

In New Brunswick, landlords can increase rent, but must follow strict rules set out in the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA). This includes providing enough written notice and ensuring any rent adjustment complies with legal requirements.^[1]

Notice Requirements for Rent Increases

• Landlords must give at least three months’ written notice before the increase takes effect.
• The notice must include the amount of the new rent, the date it begins, and be delivered personally or by mail.
• No rent increase is allowed during a fixed-term lease, unless the rental agreement allows for it.

If you receive a rent increase without proper notice or with no explanation, you may have grounds to dispute it.

Common Reasons for Unexplained Rent Increases

Landlords should clearly state why your rent is being increased, such as higher property taxes, maintenance costs, or improvements. If no clear reason is provided, or if the amount seems unreasonable, it’s wise to check your lease and review your legal protections.

Steps to Take if You Receive an Unexplained Rent Increase

If you’re uncertain about a rent hike, here are clear steps you can follow:

• Review your rental agreement: Check for any clauses about rent increases and what notice must be given.
• Check the notice: Ensure the increase meets the requirements for timing and delivery under the RTA.
• Request clarification in writing: Ask your landlord to explain the reason for the rent increase if they haven’t already.
• Contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal: This is the official body handling disputes in New Brunswick. You can find more about your rental rights at Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

It’s important not to ignore a rent increase notice. Acting quickly helps you preserve your right to challenge it if necessary.

How to Dispute a Rent Increase

Tenants in New Brunswick can apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal to contest a rent increase if:

• The landlord did not give proper notice
• The increase is unreasonable or unexplained

Use the official Application for Assistance Form (Form 6.1) to start the process (download here):

• When to use: Submit this form if you want the Tribunal to review or overturn the rent increase.
• How to use: Fill it out with details about your situation and submit to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal as soon as possible after receiving the notice.

Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Tenant

Knowing your responsibilities can help you navigate rent increases effectively. For details on paying rent, see Tenant's Guide to Paying Rent: Rights, Responsibilities, and Tips. Understanding both landlord and tenant obligations is also helpful—see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

For more information on rent increases and resolving disputes, see Understanding Rent Increases: What Tenants Need to Know.

You can also browse apartments for rent in Canada if you're considering moving in response to a challenging rent situation.

FAQ: Handling Rent Increases in New Brunswick

1. How much notice must my landlord give for a rent increase in New Brunswick?
   Landlords must provide at least three months’ written notice before increasing rent.
2. Can my landlord increase rent during a fixed-term lease?
   No, unless your lease specifically allows it, rent cannot be increased during a fixed term.
3. What can I do if my landlord doesn't explain the reason for a rent increase?
   You can request clarification in writing and, if unsatisfied, file an Application for Assistance (Form 6.1) with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
4. Where do I dispute an unreasonable rent increase?
   All disputes are handled by the Residential Tenancies Tribunal in New Brunswick.
5. Where can I find more information about tenant rights in my province?
   See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick for in-depth legal information.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Landlords must give three months’ written notice before raising rent in New Brunswick.
• If you receive an unexplained or improper increase, act quickly and know your rights.
• You can dispute unfair increases using the Application for Assistance form through the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
• Helpful guides and support are available for every step of the process.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal – New Brunswick: Information, forms, and dispute resolution for tenants and landlords.
• Public Legal Education and Information Service of New Brunswick (PLEIS-NB): Tenant advice and legal education.
• Check your municipality’s website or local tenant advocacy groups for more direct support.
• See Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick for legislation details and up-to-date rules.

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1. New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Act, current as of 2024
2. Residential Tenancies Tribunal – New Brunswick
3. Application for Assistance Form (Form 6.1), Service New Brunswick
4. PLEIS-NB: Tenant Resources

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