Landlord Entry Rules: Tenant Privacy Laws in New Brunswick

Understanding your right to privacy is a key part of feeling safe and secure in your New Brunswick rental. One of the biggest concerns for tenants is whether a landlord can enter your unit without permission, and what rules protect your privacy. This article explains New Brunswick’s entry requirements for landlords, your rights as a tenant, and practical steps if you feel those rights have been violated.

When Can a Landlord Enter Your Unit in New Brunswick?

In New Brunswick, your home is your private space—even if you rent. Landlords do have certain rights to enter your unit, but these are strictly limited by the Residential Tenancies Act (New Brunswick)^[1]. Below are the rules landlords must follow:

• Written Notice Required: Landlords must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering your unit, except in specific circumstances (see below).
• Permissible Reasons for Entry:
  • To make repairs, conduct inspections, or show the unit to prospective tenants or buyers.
  • To perform agreed-upon services.
• Entry Times: Landlords can only enter between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m., unless you otherwise agree.
• Emergencies: No advance notice is required if there is an emergency (such as fire, flood, or urgent repairs that threaten safety or property).

Written notice should include the date, time, and reason for the visit.

Exceptions to Notice Requirements

• Emergencies: In urgent situations (like a burst pipe or fire), landlords can legally enter your unit without advance notice.
• Abandonment: If the landlord can reasonably believe you've abandoned the unit, they may enter without notice to protect the property.

Outside of these cases, any entry without proper notice is not allowed and may be considered a breach of your rights as a tenant in New Brunswick.

Your Privacy and Landlord Obligations

Landlords must respect your right to quiet enjoyment and privacy, as outlined in New Brunswick’s tenancy legislation. If these rules are not followed, you have the right to address the situation—either directly with your landlord or through formal channels.

Learn more about broader landlord and tenant duties in Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

What to Do If Your Landlord Enters Without Permission

If your landlord comes into your unit without proper notice or permission, keep clear records of each incident. This could include written accounts, photographs, or witness statements.

• Talk to your landlord first to try to resolve the issue.
• If the problem isn't fixed, you may file a complaint with the Office of the Rentalsman—the official New Brunswick tribunal for rental disputes (Office of the Rentalsman).

If privacy violations persist, you may seek remedies such as a rent abatement or, in serious cases, termination of the tenancy. For examples of resolving disputes, see Common Issues Tenants Face and How to Resolve Them.

Official Forms for Tenant Complaints

• Tenant’s Application for Assistance (Form 6): Use this if you need to formally ask the Office of the Rentalsman to address entry or privacy disputes.
  Download from the official NB government site.
  • Example: If your landlord continually enters without required notice, complete Form 6, explain the incidents, and submit it to the Rentalsman for review.

What Should a Landlord’s Entry Notice Include?

A valid written notice must contain:

• The date and time of intended entry
• The reason for entering (e.g., repairs, inspections, showing the unit)
• The landlord’s name and contact information

Make sure you keep all notices in case you need to prove improper entry later.

Summary of New Brunswick Entry Laws

• Landlords must give at least 24 hours’ written notice for entry (except emergencies or abandonment).
• Entry should be between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
• Tenants can challenge improper entry through the Office of the Rentalsman.
• You always have the right to peaceful enjoyment of your home.

For more details specific to your location, refer to the Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick overview.

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1. Can my landlord enter whenever they want?
   No. In New Brunswick, your landlord must give at least 24 hours’ written notice and have a valid reason, unless it’s an emergency or they believe you’ve abandoned the property.
2. What should I do if my privacy is violated?
   Document the incidents, talk to your landlord, and if it doesn’t resolve, submit Form 6 to the Office of the Rentalsman.
3. Can I refuse entry even with notice?
   If the landlord follows all rules (notice, timing, valid reason), you generally cannot refuse entry. However, if you feel unsafe, contact the Office of the Rentalsman for guidance.
4. Who enforces New Brunswick’s rental laws?
   The Office of the Rentalsman manages landlord/tenant disputes and ensures tenancy laws are followed.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Landlords need 24 hours’ written notice for entry (except for emergencies).
• If you feel your rights are breached, clear documentation and use of Form 6 can support your case.
• Tenancy issues are managed by the Office of the Rentalsman under New Brunswick law.

Staying informed about your rights helps you maintain privacy and resolve possible disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Office of the Rentalsman (New Brunswick rentals tribunal)
• Public Legal Education and Information Service of New Brunswick: Tenant Support
• Local community legal clinics (contact information via your municipality)
• Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, New Brunswick (current as of 2024)

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