Tenants in New Brunswick have clear rights about when and how a landlord can enter a rental unit. This guide explains renter-focused rules on notice periods, valid reasons for entry, emergency access, and what to do if entry is unlawful. You will find practical steps for documenting incidents, communicating with your landlord, and applying to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal if needed. The information below uses plain language so renters can act confidently when protecting privacy, habitability, and safety in New Brunswick.
When can a landlord enter your home in New Brunswick?
Landlords may enter for limited reasons: to make repairs, show the unit to new tenants or buyers, conduct inspections, or respond to emergencies. For contested entries or questions about the law, the Residential Tenancies Tribunal handles disputes and can accept applications from renters.[1] The controlling provincial rules on landlord entry are set out in New Brunswick rental legislation and related guides for tenants and landlords.[2]
Required notice and timing
- Written notice at least 24 hours before non-emergency entry, specifying the date, a reasonable time window, and the reason.
- Immediate entry is allowed for emergencies (for example, fire, flood or gas leak); the landlord should limit access to what is necessary and notify the tenant as soon as possible afterwards.
- Landlords should use a clear Notice to Enter or equivalent written form for scheduled inspections and non-urgent repairs.
Valid reasons for entry
- Repairs and maintenance that the landlord is legally responsible for, including heat, plumbing, and safety-critical fixes.
- Routine inspections when the landlord gives the required written notice.
- Showing the unit to prospective tenants or buyers, typically near the end of a tenancy when proper notice is given.
What to do if a landlord enters without proper notice
If a landlord enters without required notice or for an improper reason, take these tenant-focused steps to protect your rights and build a record you can use at the Tribunal or in mediation.
- Document what happened: date, time, who entered, what was done, and take photos or video when safe and lawful to do so.
- Contact your landlord in writing and ask for clarification or remediation; keep copies of messages and responses.
- If the problem continues, apply to the Residential Tenancies Tribunal or follow official complaint steps using the relevant forms.[3]
FAQ
- How much notice must a landlord give before entering?
- In most non-emergency situations landlords must give written notice at least 24 hours before entry and state the reason and a reasonable time window.
- Can a landlord enter if I refuse to let them in?
- A landlord cannot force entry except in emergencies or with a valid Tribunal order; refusal in non-emergency cases is within a tenant's rights, but document the situation and seek Tribunal advice if needed.
- What counts as an emergency for entry?
- Emergencies include immediate threats to life or property such as fire, flood, gas leaks, or sudden structural failure; landlords may enter without notice to stop further harm.
- Where can I get official help or forms?
- Use the provincial Residential Tenancies Tribunal and official government pages listed in the Help and Support section below to find forms and complaint procedures.
How-To
- Read any written notice carefully and note the date, time window and stated reason.
- If the notice is unclear, contact the landlord in writing to confirm details and keep the message copy.
- Document the entry by taking dated photos, video, or a written log describing what happened.
- If the entry is improper and the landlord does not resolve it, complete the Tribunal application or complaint form and submit it with your evidence.[3]
- Attend any scheduled hearing or mediation, bring copies of notices, photos, logs, and witness contact details.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Government of New Brunswick
- Residential Tenancies Act - Government of New Brunswick
- Official Tribunal forms and application guides - Government of New Brunswick
- [1] Residential Tenancies Tribunal - Government of New Brunswick
- [2] Residential Tenancies Act - Government of New Brunswick
- [3] Tribunal forms and application instructions - Government of New Brunswick
Relevant reading: Guide to the Initial Rental Property Inspection for Tenants and Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities. Also consider using a national rental search when you move: Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme.
