Landlord Entry Rules for Tenants in New Brunswick

If you're renting a home in New Brunswick, understanding when your landlord can legally enter your unit is crucial for protecting your privacy and ensuring your rights are respected. New Brunswick has clear regulations about landlord entry—both for routine reasons and emergencies. Here's what you need to know about your rights, notice requirements, and legal protections as a tenant in New Brunswick.

Who Oversees Tenant Rights in New Brunswick?

All residential tenancy matters in New Brunswick are overseen by the Residential Tenancies Tribunal. Their role is to mediate disputes, enforce tenancy law, and provide official forms and guidance to tenants and landlords.

Relevant Legislation

Landlord entry and tenant privacy in New Brunswick are governed by the Residential Tenancies Act^[1]. All tenants and landlords must follow the rules set out in this Act.

When Can a Landlord Enter Your Unit?

Your landlord has the right to enter your rental unit in New Brunswick, but only under specific circumstances and usually with advance notice. Here are the common scenarios:

1. Emergency Situations

• If there is an emergency (such as a fire, flood, or gas leak), your landlord can enter without notice or your consent to deal with the problem immediately and protect safety.

2. Routine Inspections or Repairs

• Landlords can enter for regular inspections, repairs, or maintenance—but they must give you at least 24 hours’ written notice in advance.
• The proposed entry must occur between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., unless you agree to another time.

This includes entry for things like appliance repairs or checking smoke detectors. For detailed guidance on maintenance, see Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities.

3. Showing the Unit to New Tenants or Buyers

• When your lease is ending, the landlord may enter to show the unit to future tenants or buyers. Again, you must receive at least 24 hours’ written notice.

4. Tenant’s Consent

• Your landlord can enter at any time if you clearly say yes, either verbally or in writing.

Notice Requirements: What Does the Law Say?

For non-emergency entry, your landlord must:

• Give you at least 24 hours' written notice that explains the reason for entry, the date, and the time range.
• Enter only between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. unless you agree otherwise

If the correct notice isn’t provided, or if your landlord enters at unreasonable times, you have the right to object or file a complaint with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.

What if Your Landlord Ignores the Rules?

If your landlord enters your unit illegally—without proper notice or consent—you may file a complaint with the Tribunal. In some cases, improper entry can be considered harassment or a violation of your right to quiet enjoyment.

Tenants in New Brunswick are entitled to privacy and reasonable notice before a landlord enters their home. Always keep a record of any written communications or notices you receive.

Official Forms for Disputes and Complaints

• Notice of Complaint Form (RT): If your landlord repeatedly enters without notice or at unreasonable times, you may submit the "Notice of Complaint – RT" form to the Tribunal.
  • Download official Notice of Complaint – RT
  • When to use: For reporting violations of your tenant rights (including illegal entry).
  • How it works: You fill out the form with details of the incident (date, time, nature of entry), submit to the Tribunal, and wait for their investigation or mediation.

Key Tenant Rights and Responsibilities

Besides privacy, tenants have the right to safe, healthy living conditions and the obligation to care for the property. Learn more about your overall rights and duties under Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Your landlord cannot enter for reasons not listed in the Residential Tenancies Act. If in doubt, contact the Tribunal or a tenant support service.

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If you decide you need a change, you can browse apartments for rent in Canada with helpful filters for location, price, and pet preferences.

Learn More About Tenant and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick

For a detailed overview of local laws and protections, see Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord enter my unit without any notice in New Brunswick?
   Only in true emergencies—such as fire or a burst pipe—your landlord can enter without notice.
2. What should written notice from my landlord include?
   The written notice should state the reason for entry, date and time of entry, and be delivered at least 24 hours in advance.
3. What can I do if my landlord keeps entering my unit without notice?
   You can document all incidents and file a complaint using the Notice of Complaint – RT form with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal.
4. Does my landlord have to enter at a certain time of day?
   Yes, except in emergencies, entry must be between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. unless you've agreed to something different.
5. Are there exceptions for landlord entry during health or safety repairs?
   If the repair is urgent and affects your health or safety, your landlord may be allowed entry even without full notice, but this is rare and usually treated as an emergency.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Landlords in New Brunswick must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your unit (except in emergencies).
• You have a right to privacy—keep records of all notices and seek help if your landlord is not following legal entry rules.
• Always check the official Residential Tenancies Tribunal site for up-to-date forms and complaint processes.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Tribunal – New Brunswick (info, forms, dispute resolution)
• Tenants' Resources – Service New Brunswick (guides and legal help)
• Consider local legal clinics and tenant associations for support

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, official legislation PDF
2. Residential Tenancies Tribunal – Government of New Brunswick

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