Adding a new roommate can affect your tenancy rights and responsibilities, so tenants in New Brunswick should follow clear steps to get landlord consent, protect their deposit, and avoid disputes. This guide explains when consent is normally required under provincial rules, practical steps for asking permission in writing, what documentation to provide, and the options if a landlord refuses. It uses plain language to help renters understand leases, sublets, co-occupancy and the Residential Tenancies Tribunal process so you can act confidently and keep your housing secure in New Brunswick.
When landlord consent is required
Most leases include rules about adding occupants or subletting. If your lease forbids additional occupants or requires written consent, you must get the landlord's permission before a new person moves in. Even when the lease is silent, landlords can set reasonable limits on occupancy, but cannot discriminate against protected classes. If a proposed roommate will be a long-term co-tenant or will replace you on the lease, formal consent is essential to clarify who is responsible for rent and damage.
How to ask for consent
Follow a clear, documented process so both you and the landlord have the same expectations. A short written request with basic information about the prospective roommate helps the landlord assess the situation and keeps a record if disagreements arise.
- Write a brief written request that names the new roommate, planned move-in date, and whether they will be a co-tenant or subtenant.
- Include supporting documents the landlord may reasonably request, such as ID, references, or employment information.
- Confirm who will pay rent, whether the security deposit will change, and how utilities will be handled.
- Give the landlord reasonable time to respond and propose a date by which you need an answer.
What landlords can and cannot require
Landlords can ask for reasonable information to protect the rental property and other tenants, such as credit or references, but they cannot refuse a roommate for discriminatory reasons. They may also require a new tenant application or an addendum to the lease that names the incoming person and states obligations.
- Reasonable screening: ID, references, credit or employment verification.
- Deposit adjustments: landlords may require additional deposit if permitted by law or lease.
- Lease addendum: to list co-tenants or subtenants and their responsibilities.
Subletting vs adding an occupant
Subletting usually means the original tenant temporarily transfers possession to someone else; adding an occupant often keeps the original tenant on the lease. The difference matters for liability: subletters may owe rent to the tenant, while co-tenants typically share legal responsibility with the original tenant. Review your lease language and confirm with the landlord which arrangement applies before anyone moves in.
Official forms and where to get them
New Brunswick tenants may need to use official forms for disputes or tribunal applications, including an application to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal and any prescribed "Notice to End Tenancy" or application forms required by the tribunal. Use the government pages below to find the current form names and PDF downloads and follow the filing instructions carefully for timelines and fees.[1][2][3]
What to do if a landlord refuses consent
If you believe a refusal is unreasonable or discriminatory, try these steps: request a written reason, propose compromises (shorter trial period, references, co-signer), and keep records of all communications. If the landlord still refuses, you can file with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal to resolve the dispute; the tribunal can review whether the refusal was lawful and order remedies if appropriate.[1]
FAQ
- Do I always need my landlord's permission to add a roommate?
- Not always, but check your lease. If the lease requires written consent or forbids additional occupants, you must follow the lease terms; otherwise discuss and document the arrangement to avoid disputes.
- Can a landlord charge more rent if I add a roommate?
- A landlord can request changes to the payment arrangement or an additional deposit if your lease allows it or if both parties agree. Any change should be recorded in writing.
- What if the landlord refuses for no clear reason?
- You can ask for the reason in writing, offer reasonable compromises, and if necessary apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal to dispute an unreasonable refusal.[1]
- Will adding a roommate affect my security deposit?
- Possibly. If a new person will live in the unit long-term, the landlord may require an adjusted deposit or an amendment to reflect shared responsibility.
How-To
- Step 1: Review your lease to find any clauses about additional occupants or subletting and note required notice periods.
- Step 2: Prepare a written request that includes the roommate's name, move-in date, and documents you will provide.
- Step 3: Send the request by email or certified mail and keep a copy of the sent message and any acknowledgements.
- Step 4: If the landlord agrees, get a signed addendum or updated lease; if they refuse, ask for a written reason and consider mediation or tribunal application.
Key Takeaways
- Read your lease carefully and get any consent in writing.
- Provide reasonable documents and be transparent about payment arrangements.
- Keep dated records of all communications and receipts.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal, Government of New Brunswick
- Residential Tenancies Act and information, Government of New Brunswick
- Service New Brunswick tenancy services
