How to Repair Your Credit After an Eviction Judgment in New Brunswick

If you’re a tenant in New Brunswick who has faced an eviction judgment, it can feel overwhelming—especially when it affects your credit. But you’re not alone, and there are clear steps you can take to repair your credit and get back on track. This guide explains how eviction judgments impact your credit, how to address debts, and what resources are available for a new start as a renter in Canada.

Eviction Judgments and Your Credit in New Brunswick

In New Brunswick, an eviction judgment can affect your credit history in several ways. Typically, the judgment itself may not be listed on your credit report, but if you owe money (such as unpaid rent or damages) and your former landlord takes you to court, any resulting monetary judgment can be reported to credit agencies if it is not paid.

The official body that handles residential tenancy disputes, including eviction judgments, in New Brunswick is the Office of the Rentalsman. Learn more about your rights and obligations at the Office of the Rentalsman.

How Does an Eviction Affect Your Credit?

• If a landlord wins a court case for unpaid rent or damages, the debt may be reported to credit bureaus.
• If sent to collections, the collection account appears on your credit report.
• Negative marks can affect your ability to rent in the future or apply for loans.

It's important to address judgments as soon as possible to minimize long-term credit harm.

Practical Steps to Repair Your Credit After an Eviction Judgment

Rebuilding your credit after an eviction doesn’t happen overnight, but with disciplined action, you can make real progress.

• Request a copy of your credit report from both Equifax Canada and TransUnion Canada so you’re clear on what is being reported. Look specifically for any unpaid judgments or collections accounts related to your previous rental.
• Prioritize paying off outstanding rental debts. Contact your former landlord or collections agency and ask for a settlement offer in writing before making payment. Once paid, request a receipt and confirm the credit report is updated.
• Maintain consistent payment history on all your other credit obligations. Even small debts paid on time help rebuild your score.
• Keep documentation of all payments and communications with your previous landlord or collections agencies.

Disputing Incorrect Information on Your Credit Report

If you spot errors—such as paid judgments still showing as unpaid, or debts that aren’t yours—contact the credit bureau directly to begin the dispute process. Provide supporting documents like court receipts or settlement letters for faster resolution.

Official Forms and Where to Find Them

To dispute an incorrect judgment or address tenancy concerns, you may need to use certain official forms:

• Notice of Dispute (Form 47-1833)
  If you believe a judgment issued by the Office of the Rentalsman is incorrect, use the Notice of Dispute (Form 47-1833). Submit it within 7 days of receiving a decision to request a review. For instance, if you paid your landlord in full but they claimed otherwise, use this form to contest the judgment.
• Request to Remove Judgment from Credit Report
  This is submitted directly to the credit bureau (Equifax or TransUnion) with proof of payment or settlement, not to the Rentalsman.

Always file forms promptly and keep a copy for your records.

Re-Entering the Rental Market After Eviction

After an eviction, many tenants worry about qualifying for a new rental. Here’s what you can do to improve your chances:

• Gather references from employers, previous landlords, or community leaders.
• Prepare proof of consistent income and recent good credit behaviour.
• Be honest with potential landlords about your past; provide evidence of resolved debts if asked.

For additional guidance on common rental problems, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Ready to find a new place? Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme and start fresh in your next home.

Know Your Rights When Renting Again

Understanding your rights as a tenant in New Brunswick can make your next rental experience smoother. Learn more about Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick, from deposits and leases to maintenance and eviction procedures.

FAQ: Credit Repair After Eviction Judgment in New Brunswick

1. Can I remove an eviction judgment from my credit report?
   Judgments for unpaid rent or damages usually remain for several years. However, you can request removal after paying in full by submitting proof to the credit bureaus.
2. Will future landlords see my past eviction?
   Landlords may run a credit or tenancy background check. If you’ve paid off debts and have references, you can explain your situation and show you’ve improved.
3. Can I dispute an incorrect rental judgment?
   Yes. Use the Notice of Dispute form with the Office of the Rentalsman within 7 days, and also dispute errors directly with credit reporting agencies.
4. How long do judgments stay on my credit report in New Brunswick?
   Most negative marks stay for 6-7 years, unless removed through successful dispute or settlement updates.
5. Where can I get help if I can't pay what I owe?
   You can contact non-profit credit counselling services or the Office of the Rentalsman for guidance.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Dealing with an eviction judgment can be stressful, but you have options to rebuild your credit.
• Paying debts, disputing errors, and seeking help are key steps toward financial recovery.
• Understand your tenancy rights to make better choices in the future.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of the Rentalsman – Residential Tenancies, New Brunswick: Rental disputes, forms, and information
• Notice of Dispute (Form 47-1833)
• Credit Reporting Agencies: Equifax Canada - How to Request Your Credit Report, TransUnion Canada - Consumer Disclosure
• Non-profit Credit Counselling: Credit Counselling Canada

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1. New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Act: Read current New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Act
2. Office of the Rentalsman: Official portal for residential tenancy matters
3. Equifax Canada Credit Report Request
4. TransUnion Canada Credit Disclosure

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