Landlord and Tenant Board in New Brunswick: What Tenants Should Know

Navigating rental issues in New Brunswick? The Residential Tenancies Tribunal is your primary resource for resolving problems between landlords and tenants. Understanding its role, when to contact it, and how to use its official forms can help protect your rights as a tenant in this province.

Understanding the Residential Tenancies Tribunal in New Brunswick

The Residential Tenancies Tribunal (RTT) is the official government body in New Brunswick that manages rental housing matters. It oversees a range of issues, from rent increases and maintenance disputes to evictions and security deposits. The Tribunal enforces tenant and landlord rights under the Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick^[1].

What Issues Does the Tribunal Handle?

New Brunswick’s Tribunal can help tenants and landlords resolve:

• Rent increases or reductions
• Security deposit disputes
• Eviction notices and hearings
• Repairs and maintenance issues
• Breach of rental agreement (lease) terms

For a general overview of renting rights in this province, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

How Does the Tribunal Work?

If you and your landlord cannot resolve a problem, you may file an application with the Tribunal. The Tribunal offers:

• Guidance and advice for tenants and landlords
• Mediation to help settle disputes
• Decisions and orders that are legally binding

This process is designed to be accessible, and does not require you to hire legal representation.

Official Forms Used by Tenants

The Tribunal provides official forms for many rental situations. Here are some of the most common for tenants:

• Notice of Termination (Form 1): Used by tenants wishing to end their tenancy with proper notice.
  Example: If you need to move out, download Form 1 from the RTT website, complete it, and deliver a copy to your landlord.
• Application for Assistance (Form 6): Submit this if you're facing an unresolved dispute (e.g., your landlord won’t do urgent repairs). The Tribunal will review, may contact both parties, and can schedule a hearing. Download Form 6
• Application for Security Deposit Return: If you move out and your landlord doesn't return your deposit within the legal timeframe, use this application. See Form 5 here

Always review instructions on the official RTT site for current procedures and deadlines before submitting your form.

Your Rights and What the Tribunal Can Do

The Residential Tenancies Tribunal enforces New Brunswick’s Residential Tenancies Act, ensuring that landlords and tenants follow the law. If a dispute arises, the Tribunal can:

• Order landlords to make repairs or return deposits
• Settle issues about rent increases or unpaid rent
• Decide if an eviction is lawful or not
• Issue binding rulings after a hearing or mediation

To understand your basic rights and responsibilities as a tenant, visit Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Typical Scenarios When Tenants Need the Tribunal

• Your landlord increases the rent without proper notice
• You’re served with an eviction notice and feel it’s unjust
• Maintenance or repairs are not completed within a reasonable time
• Problems getting your security deposit back

For tips when moving into a new rental, see Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home.

How to Apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal

If informal discussions fail, tenants can apply directly to the Tribunal. The process is designed for accessibility and can often be done online or by mail.

• Get the right form from the RTT website
• Fill in your details and describe the problem and desired resolution
• Send the form to the Tribunal; keep a copy for your records
• The Tribunal may contact you and your landlord for further information or schedule a mediation or hearing
• You’ll receive a written decision that you and your landlord must follow

Always read instructions carefully and keep evidence such as emails, texts, and photos as part of your application.

Additional Tenant Resources

Whatever your rental needs, you can Browse apartments for rent in Canada easily online. Whether you’re searching for your next home or looking to understand your rights, these resources are designed for you.

1. What does the Tribunal do?
   The Residential Tenancies Tribunal resolves disputes, enforces rental law, reviews rent increase notices, and helps both tenants and landlords understand their rights.
2. How do I challenge a rent increase in New Brunswick?
   If you feel a rent increase is not justified or the notice period was too short, you can apply to the Tribunal using the appropriate form to have the increase reviewed.
3. Do I have to attend a hearing in person?
   Tribunal hearings in New Brunswick may be conducted in person or remotely. The Tribunal will provide instructions; you can often participate by phone or online if necessary.
4. My landlord won’t return my deposit. What can I do?
   If your landlord hasn’t returned your deposit within seven days of moving out, you can complete the “Application for Security Deposit Return” (Form 5) through the Tribunal.
5. Where can I learn more about my basic rental rights in New Brunswick?
   You can visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick for a concise guide.

Summary and Key Takeaways

• The Residential Tenancies Tribunal is the key resource for rental disputes in New Brunswick.
• Always use official forms and follow deadlines for rent disputes, repairs, or deposit issues.
• Protect yourself by learning your rights, keeping written records, and contacting the Tribunal when needed.

Staying informed makes renting safer and easier for everyone.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal (RTT): Official government site — find forms, guides, and contact details for tenant support.
• Service New Brunswick: Phone: 1-888-762-8600 for provincial tenant help and resources.
• Legal Aid New Brunswick: Free and low-cost legal information for eligible tenants.

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, SNB 1975, c R-10.2

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