Being an Indigenous renter in New Brunswick means you have specific protections under provincial human rights and tenancy laws. This guide explains, in clear tenant-friendly language, how to recognize housing discrimination, what immediate steps to take, and who to contact for help. You will learn how to document incidents, when to use official forms, how the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission can help, and practical tips for keeping your housing stable while making a complaint. If you rent an apartment, house, or room in New Brunswick, these steps and resources are written for tenants and renters who may not be familiar with legal terms and who want straightforward, practical guidance.
What laws and agencies protect Indigenous tenants in New Brunswick?
Indigenous tenants in New Brunswick are protected from discrimination in housing by provincial human rights legislation and by tenancy rules that prohibit unfair treatment. If you believe a landlord has treated you differently because of Indigenous ancestry, culture, or status, you can pursue remedies through the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission and, for tenancy-specific disputes, the Residential Tenancies Tribunal. For details on how each body works and to get official forms, see the links to the Human Rights Commission and the Residential Tenancies Tribunal below and in the resources section.[1][2]
How to recognize housing discrimination
- Being refused a rental application after revealing Indigenous status while others are accepted.
- Receiving different terms, higher fees, or extra conditions because you are Indigenous.
- Being subjected to racist remarks, harassment, or threats by a landlord or neighbours related to your Indigenous identity.
Practical first steps for tenants
If you experience discrimination, start by documenting everything: save texts, emails, applications, photos, and notes of conversations. Next, raise the issue with your landlord in writing if it feels safe to do so. If you do not get a fair response, you can file a discrimination complaint with the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission or bring a tenancy dispute to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal. When you file, you will usually attach evidence and explain the remedy you want, such as an apology, a change in behaviour, or compensation.
Official forms you may need (names, when to use them, and examples)
Application for Dispute Resolution (Tribunal form)
When to use it: use this form to start a formal tenancy dispute at the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if a landlord has violated your tenancy rights (for example, illegal eviction or failure to address discrimination-related harassment). Practical example: if a landlord repeatedly enters your unit without notice and also makes discriminatory comments, you can file an Application for Dispute Resolution requesting an order to stop the conduct and compensation for harassment. The official form and filing instructions are available from the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.[2]
Human Rights Complaint Form
When to use it: use the Human Rights Complaint form to report discrimination based on Indigenous identity. Practical example: if you are consistently denied showings or applications are rejected after you disclose Indigenous status, submit a complaint to the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission explaining the incidents and attaching evidence. The Commission will guide next steps for investigation or conciliation.[1]
Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme to search available listings if you must find alternative housing while a case proceeds.
What to expect from the complaint process
- After filing, there may be an initial review to check jurisdiction and completeness.
- Some matters go to mediation or conciliation first; others proceed to a hearing with a tribunal member.
- If a hearing occurs, both sides can present evidence, call witnesses, and make submissions.
FAQ
- Can I be denied a rental because I am Indigenous?
- No. Denying housing because someone is Indigenous is discrimination; you can complain to the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission and seek remedies through the tribunal or the Commission.[1]
- How do I file a complaint about discrimination by my landlord?
- Gather written evidence, send a clear written account to your landlord, then file a Human Rights complaint or an Application for Dispute Resolution with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal with copies of your evidence.[1][2]
- Will filing a complaint put my tenancy at risk?
- There are legal protections against retaliation, and both the Human Rights Commission and the Tribunal can offer remedies; document any retaliatory behaviour and report it immediately.[1]
How-To
- Gather evidence: collect messages, photos, dates, and witness names to support your claim.
- Contact your landlord in writing: request that discriminatory behaviour stop and keep a dated copy.
- File a complaint: submit a Human Rights complaint or an Application for Dispute Resolution with the tribunal, attaching evidence and desired outcomes.
- Prepare for resolution: attend mediation or hearings and bring your documentation and witnesses.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal, Service New Brunswick
- New Brunswick Human Rights Commission
- Official tenancy forms and instructions, Government of New Brunswick
