Keeping a Rental Diary: Evidence Tips in NB

Keeping a careful rental diary helps tenants document problems, repairs, communications and costs when renting in New Brunswick. A clear record of dates, times, photos, messages and receipts shows a pattern of issues — useful for negotiating with your landlord, requesting repairs, or presenting evidence to the provincial tribunal. This guide explains what to record, how to store entries safely, and practical examples of entries for repairs, pest problems and rent disputes. It also points to official New Brunswick forms and steps to file a complaint if necessary. The tone is practical and non-technical so renters can start a diary today and protect their rights without needing legal training.

What to include in your rental diary

A reliable diary is concise, dated and backed by supporting files. Include the core items below for every incident or interaction.

• Record the date and time for every event, call, visit or repair attempt.
• Write a short description of the problem or conversation and who was involved.
• Attach or link photos and videos that show the issue clearly, with timestamps where possible.
• Save copies of written notices, emails and text messages, and note how they were delivered.
• Keep receipts for any repairs you paid for, temporary housing or related expenses.
• Record dates and reasons for landlord or contractor entries and any inspection results.

How to format entries so they are useful

Use short, consistent entries so your diary is easy to follow. Start each entry with date and time, then add a two- or three-line factual note, and finish by listing attached evidence (photo filenames, message screenshots, receipts).

• Start with the date and time so chronology is obvious.
• Keep descriptions factual: what you saw, what you smelled, who you talked to.
• Mention how you reported the issue (call, email, text) and any reference numbers.
• Note any out-of-pocket costs and attach receipts or invoices.

Using diary entries as evidence

When a problem persists, a diary helps show a pattern rather than isolated complaints. Before filing a formal request or an application with the provincial process, gather a clear timeline, copies of communications, and proof of attempts to resolve the problem with your landlord.

• When you give a written notice or receive one back, save a dated copy and note how it was delivered.
• If repairs are delayed, log each missed appointment and follow up in writing.
• If you apply to the provincial body that handles tenancy disputes, attach a chronological extract of your diary as evidence.

Official forms and where to get them

Use official provincial forms when you need to give notice, request repairs in writing, or file an application. The provincial tenant information pages explain the correct forms and the steps to submit them^[1]. The Residential Tenancies Act sets the legal standard and explains timelines and obligations^[2]. A consolidated list of forms and guidance is available from the government forms page^[3].

• Service New Brunswick - Residential Tenancies — use this page to find the correct official form and contact details when you need to start a formal request.
• Notice to end a tenancy (official provincial notice) — use when a tenant or landlord needs to end a tenancy following the rules; follow the form instructions and keep a dated copy.
• Application to resolve a tenancy dispute — complete and submit this form if you cannot resolve issues by communicating with the landlord; include your diary extract and evidence attachments.

Practical examples of diary entries

Example entries help you see how much detail to include. Use short, factual sentences and reference attached files.

• "2026-03-05 09:15 — Kitchen sink leaking from under cabinet. Photo KITCHEN_LEAK_20260305.jpg attached. Called landlord at 10:00; left voicemail."
• "2026-03-07 14:30 — Landlord texted they will send plumber on 2026-03-08. Text screenshot attached."
• "2026-03-12 18:00 — Paid $75 to plumber after no access arranged; receipt PLUMBER_20260312.pdf attached."

Related tenant resources

Before a dispute, review inspection and habitability guidance so your diary focuses on relevant issues such as safety and repairs. See the Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants for move-in notes and the Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting to learn what to record for habitability concerns.

FAQ

What is a rental diary and why keep one?

A rental diary is a record of problems, repairs, communications and expenses; it helps tenants show a timeline and evidence if issues escalate.

How long should I keep records?

Keep records for as long as a problem could affect you or for at least the length of any applicable limitation period; when in doubt, keep them until the issue is fully resolved.

Can I use my diary at a hearing or tribunal?

Yes. A clear, dated diary with supporting photos, messages and receipts is commonly accepted as evidence in tenancy dispute processes.

How-To

1. Start each entry with date and time, then give a factual two-line description and list attachments.
2. Take clear photos or videos and name files with the date and short description.
3. Email yourself copies of important messages so you have a time-stamped record of communications.
4. Store receipts for expenses and note why the expense was necessary in the diary entry.
5. If informal attempts fail, prepare an extract of your diary and attach it to any formal application to the provincial tenancy body.

Key Takeaways

• Short, dated entries plus photos make a strong, usable record.
• Keep copies of official notices and use provincial forms when filing complaints.
• Back up your diary and attachments in multiple secure places.

Help and Support / Resources

• Service New Brunswick - Residential Tenancies
• New Brunswick Department of Justice
• Official tenancy forms and guidance

1. [1] Service New Brunswick - Residential Tenancies
2. [2] Residential Tenancies Act and legislative guidance
3. [3] Official tenancy forms and templates

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