Landlord Entry and Tenant Privacy Rules in New Brunswick

Understanding your right to privacy is essential for every New Brunswick tenant. Whether you’re newly renting or have years of experience, knowing when and how your landlord can legally enter your unit can help you feel secure in your home. This guide explains the landlord entry process, legal notice requirements, and your core privacy rights under New Brunswick’s rental laws.

Tenant Privacy and Landlord Entry: The Basics

Tenants in New Brunswick have strong privacy protections built into provincial law. While landlords do have the right to access a rental unit for certain reasons, strict rules apply to notice, entry hours, and emergency situations. All rules are outlined in the Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick^[1].

When Can a Landlord Enter Your Unit?

• For repairs or maintenance they've agreed to perform
• To inspect the state of repair or cleanliness of the premises
• To show the unit to prospective tenants or purchasers
• If the landlord has reason to believe the tenant has abandoned the premises
• In cases of emergency (no notice needed)

In all non-emergency situations, your landlord must meet clear notice and timing requirements before entry.

Notice Rules for Landlord Entry

• Written notice is required: Landlords must give you at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering.
• Time of entry: Entry must be between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., unless you agree otherwise.
• Form of notice: Notice can be delivered by hand, posted on your door, or sent by registered mail.
• Specific information: The notice must state the date, time, and reason for entry.

Checklist: Protecting Your Privacy

• Review your Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained for both parties’ rights on privacy and entry.
• Understand the situations where entry is permitted.
• Request written notice if not provided.
• Keep records of any notices you receive or communications about entry.
• Report unauthorized entries to the Rentalsman.
• If you’re planning to move out, check your responsibilities in Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

Regular communication and record-keeping help maintain a respectful relationship with your landlord and protect your legal rights.

Official Forms You May Need

If privacy issues arise or you need to challenge unauthorized entry, here are some important forms:

• Application for Assistance (Form 3):
  Use this to make a formal complaint to the Office of the Rentalsman about unauthorized entry or other tenancy disputes. For example, if your landlord enters without notice, you can complete Form 3 and submit it directly to the Rentalsman.
  Download Form 3 – Application for Assistance (PDF)
• Notice of Entry (no specific official form required):
  Landlords are responsible for giving written notice, but tenants should ask for clarification if the reason or time is unclear.

All forms and resources are accessible through the Office of the Rentalsman – Service New Brunswick website.^[2]

Special Circumstances: Emergencies, Showings, and Repairs

• Emergencies: No notice required if immediate entry is needed to protect health, safety, or prevent severe property damage.
• Showings: 24-hour notice still required for prospective tenant or buyer viewings.
• Repairs: Non-urgent repairs need proper notice; urgent repairs may require faster access.

If you’re unsure whether your landlord’s entry request is legal, consult the Rentalsman or review the Residential Tenancies Act for details.

Remember: Tenants cannot unreasonably refuse entry, but you should never feel your privacy is violated. Ask questions and get support if needed.

Tenant Rights: Provincial Resources and Further Reading

For a full overview of tenant rights and landlord obligations in New Brunswick—including privacy, entry, rent rules, and maintenance—see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What notice does my landlord have to give before entering my unit?
   Landlords must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice, stating the reason, date, and time for entry (between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.), except in emergencies.
2. Can my landlord enter without my permission?
   Yes, if they follow the 24-hour notice rule or if there is an emergency such as fire, flood, or urgent repairs. Otherwise, entry without notice is not allowed.
3. What can I do if my landlord enters without notice?
   You can document the incident and file a complaint with the Office of the Rentalsman, using Form 3 – Application for Assistance.
4. Are there any exceptions for landlord entry during repairs?
   For urgent repairs involving safety or property damage, landlords may enter without notice. For routine repairs, they must give proper notice.
5. Where can I find the official rules about landlord entry and privacy?
   The Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick details all regulations.

How To: Protect Your Privacy as a Tenant in New Brunswick

1. How to respond when your landlord gives notice of entry
   Check the reason, date, and time. If any information is missing or the time is inconvenient, contact your landlord right away to clarify or reschedule.
2. How to file a complaint about unauthorized entry
   Record each incident, gather evidence, and complete Form 3. Submit it to the Office of the Rentalsman with supporting details.
3. How to discuss privacy expectations with your landlord
   Communicate your preferences in writing, and focus on respectful, fact-based dialogue.

Key Takeaways

• Landlords in New Brunswick must give 24 hours’ written notice before entering your unit (unless it’s an emergency).
• You have the right to privacy and can challenge unauthorized entry through official channels.
• Clear communication and record-keeping support your rights and help resolve disputes amicably.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of the Rentalsman (Service New Brunswick): Official government resource for tenant-landlord disputes
• Form 3 – Application for Assistance: Download here (PDF)
• Residential Tenancies Act, New Brunswick: Read the full legislation online
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick

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1. [1] Residential Tenancies Act of New Brunswick
2. [2] Office of the Rentalsman – Service New Brunswick

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