How to Resolve Roommate and Shared Housing Issues in New Brunswick

Living with roommates or in shared housing can offer affordability and community—but it also brings unique challenges. If you’re a tenant in New Brunswick facing problems with roommates, conflicts over shared bills, or maintenance concerns, understanding your rights and clear steps to resolve disputes is crucial. This guide provides New Brunswick tenants with practical, up-to-date advice and links to official resources, including forms and legal processes, to help you handle shared housing issues fairly and effectively.

Understanding Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Shared Housing Tenant

Whether you’re leasing directly from the landlord or are a subtenant under a primary renter, New Brunswick has specific laws regulating shared rentals. In most cases, your rights are set out under the province’s Residential Tenancies Act^[1], which is enforced by the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.

• Review your written rental agreement or lease; it defines your rights and obligations to both the landlord and your roommates.
• All tenants listed on the lease are usually jointly responsible for paying rent and maintaining the property.
• Subtenancy arrangements require landlord approval—failure to follow proper procedure can affect your legal protections.

If you have not signed a written lease or your arrangement is informal, the law may still offer you some protections. Learn more on the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick page.

Types of Shared Housing Arrangements

• Co-tenancy: Roommates sign the same lease and share responsibilities equally.
• Subtenancy: The original tenant rents out part of the property to another person, requiring landlord approval and the use of official forms.
• Informal arrangement: Verbal agreements or roommate additions may still have protections, but resolving disputes could be more difficult.

Common Roommate Problems & Practical Resolution Steps

Roommate disputes often fall into these categories:

• Rent payment issues or late/non-payment
• Disagreements over shared bills (utilities, internet, etc.)
• Cleanliness, noise, or lifestyle clashes
• Damage to the unit and responsibility for repairs

Try to Resolve Roommate Issues Internally

Before formal complaints, try these steps:

• Have a calm, documented conversation outlining the problem
• Suggest solutions that are fair to everyone
• Follow up in writing (email or text) to document what was agreed
• If everyone is on the lease, remind your roommates that you all share legal responsibility for rent and property care

When to Involve the Landlord or Tribunal

Some roommate issues can’t be resolved privately—especially if they affect rent payment, property condition, or breach the lease. In these cases:

• Notify your landlord in writing of any agreement breakdowns impacting rent or damage to the unit
• Gather evidence: written communications, photos, copies of the lease
• If a roommate moves out early or refuses to pay, you may need to seek assistance from the landlord or Residential Tenancies Tribunal

Landlords cannot evict individuals named on the lease without following legal procedures. Tenants should never attempt to "evict" a roommate on their own.

Important Forms for Shared Housing Issues in New Brunswick

• Application for Assistance (Form RTB-1) – Used to request help from the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for mediation or formal dispute resolution. For example, if a roommate refuses to pay rent or there is a dispute over damages, fill out and submit this form online or at a Service New Brunswick centre. Download Form RTB-1 (PDF)
• Notice of Termination (Form RTB-3) – If you (or your landlord) need to legally end the rental due to serious problems (e.g., unauthorized occupants or repeated non-payment), use this form. The process and notice period depend on the issues involved. Download Form RTB-3 (PDF)

Check the Residential Tenancies Tribunal website for the latest forms and guidance on handling shared tenancy disputes.

If Repairs or Maintenance Are a Source of Conflict

When the issue is about cleaning, damage, or health and safety problems in shared housing, it helps to know who is responsible for what. Landlords are typically responsible for major repairs and ensuring the home is safe. If repairs are being ignored, tenants can apply to the Tribunal for an order to have them completed. Learn more at Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

Moving Out or Replacing a Roommate in Shared Housing

If a roommate leaves or wants to move, tenants should follow proper procedures to update the lease or assignment agreement. In New Brunswick, you generally can’t just remove or add someone to the lease without landlord approval. Failing to follow proper steps can cause problems with responsibility for rent or damage after someone leaves.

• Discuss early with your landlord and roommates
• Provide written notice and complete forms as required
• Understand your deposit return rights—see Understanding Rental Deposits: What Tenants Need to Know

For more practical moving tips, see Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home.

Related: Find a New Place or Roommates

If shared living isn't working out, or you're seeking a new space, discover a wide range of Affordable homes for rent in Canada with search tools and listings tailored for tenants.

FAQ: Roommate and Shared Housing Issues in New Brunswick

1. Can my landlord evict my roommate without evicting me?
   Generally, if you and your roommate are both on the lease, the landlord must follow formal eviction procedures for all tenants. An individual cannot be "removed" by the landlord unless the Tribunal approves.
2. If my roommate stops paying their share of rent, am I responsible?
   Yes. In most co-lease agreements, all tenants are jointly responsible for the full rent. If a roommate fails to pay, the landlord can seek the total amount from any or all tenants listed on the lease.
3. How can I end my shared lease if my roommates refuse to leave?
   You must provide the correct notice using the official Notice of Termination form, and involve the Tribunal if there is a dispute. Never try to remove someone yourself without legal backing.
4. What do I do if a roommate causes damage to the rental unit?
   Document the damage, inform your landlord, and if necessary file an Application for Assistance with the Tribunal for help in resolving the issue.
5. Are there rules about guests or new roommates in New Brunswick?
   Most leases require landlord approval before adding new roommates. Review your agreement and notify your landlord in writing of any changes.

How To: Navigating Shared Housing Problems Step by Step

1. How do I formally report a dispute with a roommate?
   Start by trying to resolve the issue directly with your roommate. If unsuccessful, document all interactions and submit an Application for Assistance (Form RTB-1) to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal with full details and evidence.
2. How can I get my name off a shared lease if I want to leave?
   Notify your landlord and roommates in writing, follow the lease terms for giving notice, and use Form RTB-3 (Notice of Termination) if applicable. Be sure to settle any outstanding rent or damages.
3. How do I request a roommate change or add a new roommate?
   Discuss the change with your landlord. They may require a new application or lease amendment. Always get written confirmation before anyone moves in or out.
4. How can I apply for repair orders in a shared rental?
   Inform your landlord of the needed repair in writing. If unaddressed, file an Application for Assistance (Form RTB-1) with supporting documentation to the Tribunal, who can order the repairs.

Key Takeaways: Solving Shared Housing Disputes in New Brunswick

• Know your rights under New Brunswick’s Residential Tenancies Act and review your lease terms carefully.
• Keep clear records of payments, communications, and any shared expenses.
• Use official Tribunal forms, and seek government help if disputes cannot be resolved among roommates.
• Always involve your landlord and follow formal procedures for moving out or changing roommates.

For more on provincial rules, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• New Brunswick Residential Tenancies Tribunal: Official government body for rental disputes, forms, and guidance
• Service New Brunswick – Rentals: Forms, contact information, and complaint procedures
• Local tenant advocate groups: Search your city for housing advice and free support services
• Provincial page: Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick

1. Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)
2. Residential Tenancies Tribunal – Province of New Brunswick
3. Notice of Termination – Form RTB-3
4. Application for Assistance – Form RTB-1