Landlord Accessibility Duties for Disabled Tenants in NB

Tenants with disabilities in New Brunswick have clear rights when it comes to accessible housing, reasonable accommodation requests, and prompt repairs. If you need a modification, an accessible entrance, grab bars, or another change that helps you live safely and independently, this guide explains what to ask from your landlord, how to document requests, and when to involve the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or the Human Rights Commission in New Brunswick. The steps below use plain language so renters and tenants can act confidently, protect safety and privacy, and meet deadlines for filing formal applications if an agreement cannot be reached.

What landlords must provide in New Brunswick

Landlords are required to allow reasonable accommodation for tenants with disabilities, unless doing so would cause undue hardship. Accommodations can be temporary or permanent and may include physical modifications, changes to building rules, or permits for assistive devices. Keep requests clear and in writing, and keep records of communications and quotes for work.

• Allow reasonable physical modifications such as ramps, grab bars, or lowered counters, subject to agreed terms.
• Respond to accommodation requests in writing and explain any refusal or conditions.
• Keep records of inspection reports, quotes, receipts, and correspondence about changes or repairs.
• Respect tenant privacy and avoid entering the unit without proper notice except in emergencies.

Who decides if a request is reasonable

If you and your landlord cannot agree, the Residential Tenancies Tribunal handles disputes about tenancy terms and repairs in New Brunswick and can order remedies or adjustments ^[1]. The New Brunswick Human Rights Commission can handle discrimination claims related to disability accommodation as a separate process.

How to make an effective accommodation request

Follow these practical steps so your request is clear and well-documented.

1. Contact your landlord first to discuss the need and possible solutions, and follow up in writing.
2. Put the request in writing, include specifics about the modification, and keep a dated copy for your records.
3. Attach supporting evidence such as a clinician letter, assessment, or photos showing the barrier.
4. Get quotes from qualified contractors if physical work is needed and share them with the landlord.
5. If the landlord delays or refuses without clear reasons, note timelines and consider filing with the Tribunal or Human Rights Commission.

Costs, repairs and permanence

Who pays for modifications depends on whether the change is reasonable, permanent, and who benefits. Landlords often pay for repairs that maintain habitability, while tenants commonly pay for some tenant-requested permanent alterations unless laws or tribunal decisions require landlord payment. If a modification is installed, agree in writing on whether it will stay at the end of the tenancy or be removed, and who will pay for restoration.

When to involve official routes

If an accommodation request is refused or ignored, you can file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal for enforcement of tenancy rights, or a discrimination complaint with the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission if the refusal is based on disability. Check applicable timelines and required forms before filing ^[2][3].

FAQ

Can a landlord refuse accessibility modifications I need?

Landlords cannot unreasonably refuse reasonable accommodations; refusals should be justified with evidence of undue hardship and communicated in writing.

Will I have to pay for permanent modifications?

Payment depends on the nature of the modification and who benefits; discuss cost sharing up front and document any agreement in writing.

How do I file a complaint if a landlord refuses my request?

If negotiation fails, apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or contact the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission for discrimination issues; include documentation and timelines with your application.

How-To

1. Speak with your landlord about the needed accommodation and reach a verbal agreement if possible.
2. Send a dated written request describing the modification, why it is needed, and any supporting evidence.
3. Collect written estimates or professional opinions and share them with the landlord.
4. Allow reasonable time for a reply; if denied or ignored, prepare your application to the Tribunal with your documents.
5. File with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or the Human Rights Commission if necessary, and bring copies of all records to any hearing.

Key Takeaways

• Tenants with disabilities can request reasonable accommodations and should keep written records.
• Provide supporting evidence and quotes to speed agreement and reduce disputes.
• If issues persist, apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or contact the Human Rights Commission.

Help and Support / Resources

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Service New Brunswick
• Residential Tenancies Act and legislation - Government of New Brunswick
• New Brunswick Human Rights Commission

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1. [1] Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Service New Brunswick
2. [2] Residential Tenancies Act and legislation - Government of New Brunswick
3. [3] Application forms for the Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Service New Brunswick